An individual may think of massage as a luxury, but it is also very therapeutic, when combined with traditional medicine, to reduce stress, pain, anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. It also promotes healing in individuals with certain health conditions, immune systems, enhances sleep quality, increases circulation, and even improves self esteem.

During a massage, a therapist manipulates the soft tissues. Massage therapy relieves tension in the muscles, skin and tendons and most people use it for relaxation, relief of stress and anxiety, or to reduce muscle soreness (often associated with withdrawal). Massage therapy can also cause the body to release "natural" pain killers, and in actuality, may boost the immune system. Some of the benefits of massage therapy during rehab, are to:

• alleviate pain
• ease medication dependence
• enhance immunity
• lessen depression and anxiety
• reduce spasms and cramping
• relax and soften injured, tired muscles
• release endorphins - amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller

Regardless of the reasons we seek out massage therapy, it can be a powerful tool in an individuals recovery regimen. Statistics show that 90% of disease is stress related. Stress can be positive or negative changes in a persons life. While a person is in rehab, from detox to completion of the program, they acquire highs and lows in their stress levels. Helping to eliminate anxiety and pressure altogether, helps manage stress. This alone translates into:

• decrease anxiety
• enhanced sleep quality
• greater energy
• increased circulation
• reduced fatigue
• improved concentration

The emotional balance can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

At The Cedars, we recognize the individuals stress levels, as they partake in major changes in their lives. We encourage massage therapy to help relieve these barriers in every aspect of their program - from the physical and emotional elements felt during withdrawal, to the challenges they face in confronting their addiction, and even the positive stressors, of finding freedom.

The Cedars employs professionally trained massage therapists, to assist in the healing process. We encourage our residents to continue this therapy even after they have completed the program. Family members may also participate during family week and encourage them also, to benefit from such therapy in their own communities. Stress affects everyone in different ways - talk with our counselors about finding a Massage Therapist in you area.