Many picture massage therapy as part of a spa experience. Your face is turned into a salad followed by someone practicing their kung fu ninja skills on your back. For others massage therapy is reserved as a special treat to make you feel really good for a couple hours. Beyond these two views, studies now show that incorporating regular massage therapy into your life has great holistic health benefits.
Boosted Immunity
Regular massages help to boost the body’s immune system by stimulating the lymphatic and circulatory systems. When these systems function at optimal levels, the body is better able to dispose of the toxins. Massages also release endorphins, which are a natural pain killer. Many clients of massage therapy report mitigated chronic pain with regular massage therapy. By incorporating massage therapy into your addiction recovery journey, your body chemistry will be able to recalibrate itself more quickly.
Increased Cognitive Function
Those who receive regular massages report they sleep better, feel more rested, and have better concentration. Health experts believe that there are three keys to keeping a person’s health at optimal levels: a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good sleep quality.
By receiving regular massages, those who are recovering from their addiction disease will enjoy the benefits of better sleep quality. Better sleep will help you face your days at peak performance and help mitigate stresses and trigger points you will encounter.
Mental Health
Massage therapy can be very mentally relaxing. However, the benefits go beyond a simple sigh of relief from life’s pressures. Research shows by incorporating massage therapy into your routine you will be less likely to experience anxiety and depression. Some doctors have even prescribed massage therapy to help combat certain neurological disorders.
In the world of addiction treatment, good mental health may be one of the greatest benefits of massage. Much of the addiction battle is fought in the mind. Anything that can give an edge is invaluable.
Massage therapy is truly a holistic approach to healthy living. Massages target the body, soul, and mind. If you are still hesitant about incorporating massages into your health routine, consider a trial run. Many therapists offer shorter, less expensive sessions for new clients. If you are in recovery for an addiction, consider keeping a journal during your time in massage therapy. When you can track the benefits of what works and what does not, you will be able to invest your time in what matters most.
The Springboard Center wants to change the way the Permian Basin and beyond approaches substance abuse. Our residential treatment programs offer an opportunity to restore the health and dignity of clients and their families. Call us today for information on our programs for addiction and alcoholism: (432) 620-0255
