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We offer massage therapy for addiction treatment at our luxury rehab in Encinitas, California. This is one of many holistic treatments that can complement other addiction treatments such as detoxification, 12 Step programs, or cognitive-behavioral therapy. Holistic therapy addresses the mind, body, and spirit which is essential when overcoming a substance misuse problem.
Residents in our addiction treatment program receive three individual holistic therapies per week. Our team helps choose which holistic treatments are best for each individual, but you can try them all; breathing and stress reduction, yoga and meditation, acupuncture, personal training and exercise, guided imagery, reflexology, or massage therapy.
Massage therapy is an integrative medicine that is beneficial for relieving stress and physical pain. When offered with other evidence-based therapies, massage therapy is an effective treatment for addiction.
What Is Massage Therapy for Addiction Recovery?
Massage therapy for addiction is a holistic approach that seeks to support individuals in their recovery from substance misuse. It involves the skilled manipulation of muscles, tissues, and body structures by a trained massage therapist with the purpose of alleviating physical and psychological symptoms. The use of drugs or alcohol can cause much discomfort and stress on the body. Massage therapy for addiction also promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being for the recipient.
As a holistic treatment, massage therapy addresses the individual as a whole, considering the interconnection between the mind, body, and spirit. Addiction affects not only the physical body but also mental and emotional states. By incorporating massage into addiction treatment, individuals can experience various benefits such as improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, enhanced sleep quality, increased self-awareness, and decreased anxiety and depression.
How Does Massage Therapy Help Treat Addiction?
Massage therapy helps individuals who suffer from addiction develop healthy coping mechanisms, manage cravings, and foster a sense of self-care and self-nurturing. It complements other treatment modalities by promoting a state of deep relaxation and aiding in the release of emotional and physical tension, thus supporting the overall recovery process. However, it’s important to note that massage therapy alone is not enough to overcome substance misuse and isn’t considered comprehensive addiction treatment. It’s a valuable supplemental therapy in a holistic approach to recovery.
Massage therapy alone cannot help someone quit alcohol and drug use. Addiction is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and individualized treatment approach. While massage therapy can be a beneficial component of a holistic treatment plan for addiction, it should not be relied upon as a standalone solution for quitting substance abuse. Quitting alcohol and drug use requires a combination of therapies, such as counseling, support groups, medical interventions, and lifestyle changes.
It’s crucial for individuals struggling with drug or alcohol use to seek professional help from addiction specialists, therapists, and medical professionals who can provide comprehensive treatment and support. Our clinical team at AToN can create a personalized treatment plan that may include massage therapy along with other evidence-based interventions to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.
Massage therapy supports the recovery process by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, alleviating physical discomfort, and enhancing overall well-being. This may help improve mental clarity which is necessary for making changes that support your long-lasting recovery. It can help individuals manage cravings, improve self-awareness, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Massage therapy at the AToN Center supports our aftercare program where we train residents in relapse prevention methods. This type of therapy can strengthen the body, preparing individuals mentally and physically for continuing their recovery.
What To Expect During a Massage Therapy Session
During a massage therapy session, residents in our program at AToN can expect a tranquil and relaxing environment where their comfort and well-being are prioritized. A session typically begins with a brief consultation, where you and the massage therapist discuss any specific concerns, goals, or areas of focus. This allows the therapist to tailor the session to your needs.
After the consultation, you’ll be given privacy to undress to your level of comfort and lie on a padded massage table. You’re provided with draping, which allows modesty and enables your massage therapist to work on specific body areas while maintaining professionalism and respect for personal boundaries.
Once you’re comfortable and settled, the massage therapist will enter the room and begin the session. Massage therapists use a variety of massage techniques, such as Swedish, deep tissue, or aromatherapy, depending on the recipient’s preferences and goals. They’ll apply oil or lotion to your skin to reduce friction and enhance the smoothness of the massage strokes.
Throughout the session, the massage therapist will check in to determine your comfort level, pressure preferences, and any other feedback you may have to improve your session. We always encourage open communication to ensure your needs are met. The therapist will focus on manipulating the muscles and tissues using different strokes, kneading, stretching, and applying pressure to alleviate tension and promote relaxation.
A massage therapy session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, although shorter sessions may be available. Toward the end of the session, the therapist will gradually bring the massage to a close, giving you time to reorient yourself and slowly transition back to a seated or standing position. You’ll then be provided with a few moments of privacy to dress before the therapist returns to the room.
Residents receiving treatment at AToN can expect a professional and nurturing environment during a massage therapy session. This therapy aims to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall well-being. Our therapist will ensure that your individual needs and preferences are respected and prioritized during every session.
Who Is a Good Candidate For Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy for addiction can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals who are seeking support in their recovery journey. While there are no specific criteria that determine eligibility for massage therapy, certain factors can make it particularly helpful for individuals in addiction recovery.
Being open to alternative therapy. Individuals must be open to trying holistic approaches to treatment and are likely to find more value in massage therapy. It’s important to have a willingness to explore different avenues of support beyond traditional methods. Massage therapy can provide a unique and alternative way to address the physical and emotional aspects of addiction.
Experiencing physical discomfort or withdrawal symptoms. Individuals who are experiencing pain and discomfort as a result of withdrawal are great candidates for massage therapy. Massages can help alleviate muscle tension, reduce pain, and improve circulation, which can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with the physical aftermath of substance use.
Feeling stress, anxiety, or depression. Those struggling with their mental health may find massage therapy to be very beneficial during their treatment and recovery. Holistic therapy is naturally calming and relaxing. It supports emotional well-being, reduces stress levels, and promotes a sense of inner peace. Massage therapy can also provide individuals with an opportunity for self-care, self-nurturing, and reconnecting with their bodies.
If you have specific medical conditions or physical complications related to substance misuse, you should consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in massage therapy. Our clinical team provides a comprehensive assessment to identify these types of complications that could interfere with holistic treatments. This ensures that the therapy is safe and appropriate for each resident’s individual circumstances.
Benefits of Massage For Addiction Recovery
Massage therapy offers a range of benefits that can support individuals in addiction recovery. From easing physical discomfort during detox to providing emotional support and promoting self-care in aftercare, massage therapy can be an important and valuable addition to a comprehensive treatment plan.
Stress reduction: Prolonged use of drugs or alcohol negatively impacts brain chemicals that help manage stress. Massage therapy can reduce stress and promotes relaxation, which is particularly beneficial during the challenging process of detoxification and withdrawal.
Physical pain relief: It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience physical symptoms when they stop using substances. Massage therapy alleviates muscular tension, pain, and discomfort associated with withdrawal symptoms and the physical strain of substance misuse.
Improved sleep quality: Many individuals who misuse alcohol and drugs experience disruption in their sleep patterns. Massage therapy can help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety that makes it difficult to fall and stay asleep.
Emotional support: Massage therapy provides a nurturing and comforting touch, which can contribute to emotional healing and well-being during the vulnerable stages of recovery.
Enhanced self-awareness: By focusing attention on the body, massage therapy helps individuals develop a deeper connection and awareness of their physical and emotional states. This fosters a greater sense of self-awareness, which is important for reducing your risk of relapse.
Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression: Massage promotes the release of endorphins and decreases the levels of stress hormones, which can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Those with a dual diagnosis can especially benefit from massage therapy.
Increased self-care and self-nurturing: Engaging in regular massage therapy sessions encourages individuals to prioritize self-care, self-compassion, and self-nurturing These are crucial elements of a successful recovery.
Integration of mind and body: Massage therapy supports the integration of the mind and body, helping individuals address the holistic aspects of addiction and recovery.
Continued support in aftercare: Even after completing residential treatment, massage therapy can be an ongoing component of aftercare plans. It provides ongoing stress reduction, emotional support, and helps individuals maintain their overall well-being as they navigate the challenges of long-term recovery.
Holistic Treatments and Recovery at AToN Center
At AToN Center, a luxury rehab facility in California, massage therapy serves as a valuable addition to our comprehensive addiction treatment program. Treatment here integrates a range of holistic and evidence-based therapies to address substance use disorders, and massage therapy plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being and enhancing the recovery process. In addition to other holistic therapies such as breathing and stress reduction techniques, exercise, meditation, and acupuncture, massage therapy offers residents a multi-faceted approach to healing.
By incorporating massage therapy into our treatment programs, AToN Center recognizes the importance of addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction. The skilled touch of a massage therapist not only provides relaxation and physical pain relief but also fosters emotional support, self-awareness, and self-care. This aligns with AToN Center’s commitment to providing a holistic and nurturing environment that supports residents in their recovery journey.
With a focus on combining evidence-based practices and holistic modalities, we at the AToN Center recognize that addiction treatment extends beyond traditional methods. Massage therapy, alongside other complementary therapies, offers residents a well-rounded and individualized treatment experience that promotes healing on multiple levels. By embracing a holistic approach, AToN Center provides residents with a comprehensive and luxurious rehab experience that supports their path to lasting recovery. Contact our team for more information about holistic healing and start your journey to long-term sobriety today.