Recovering from addiction is one of the most challenging journeys a person can face. At Happy Head Foot Reflexology and Massage in San Diego, we believe that holistic wellness practices can play an important role in supporting individuals through the recovery process. Incorporating regular holistic therapy into a rehabilitation program can help reduce stress, manage cravings, and promote overall physical and mental health.
The rehab process for alcohol and drug abusers can be a very tough process for most people. The steps required can seem very demanding and can be highly stressful for someone with dependency to drugs. Whether their approach is a 12 step program or incorporating diet and exercise to a patient’s routine, the patient is expected to think, communicate and practice the new routine daily. While that may seem doable to some, addicts may feel overwhelmed and may not even have enough energy to proceed with the process right away. They might have other things on their mind such as pain from withdrawal, decreased attention span, or may just be too depressed to do anything good for themselves. Recovering drug addicts need something that will help them throughout their rehabilitation process. And that something may be massage therapy.
First of all, rehab programs ask for patients to begin by detoxifying their body and what better way to start detoxing than with a massage? As all these bad chemicals are being flushed out of the body (a process than usually takes 24 to 72 hours, the patient may get urges and cravings that make it hard for them to keep those chemicals out. By restoring energy and strength, massage therapy can help the patient fight urges to relapse.
When addicts go through withdrawal, they often feel stressed and anxious which can cause them to relapse in order to soothe those feelings with their drug of choice. It is known that massage therapy helps reduce stress and feelings of depression.
Another way massage therapy works is by increasing the body’s immune system. Drug addicts have more of a chance of getting sick with a virus or bacteria. Through massage therapy, patients can build up their immune system much faster to fight those viruses. And lastly, patients can ease their stress and anxiety during withdrawal by releasing endorphins into the body. Leaving a massage session, patients feel less agitated and more positive. Having reduced stress, a positive attitude and a healthy body can contribute to a patient’s success in drug therapy.
The Science Behind Massage and Recovery
Research from the American Massage Therapy Association shows that therapeutic touch can significantly reduce cortisol levels while increasing serotonin and dopamine production. These neurochemical changes are particularly beneficial for individuals in recovery, as they help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety, and promote feelings of wellbeing without the use of substances. Regular sessions can become a healthy part of any recovery plan.
How Happy Head Can Help Your Recovery Journey
At Happy Head, our experienced therapists understand the importance of creating a safe and relaxing environment for every client. Whether you are in the early stages of recovery or maintaining long term sobriety, our affordable services can provide the physical and emotional support you need. From Swedish techniques to deep tissue work, we offer a variety of options to help you feel your best.
Learn more about the benefits of massage therapy and visit any of our convenient San Diego locations to start incorporating wellness into your recovery routine today. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, providing professional care in a welcoming atmosphere that promotes healing and relaxation.
