With water making up between 50%-65% of the human body and over 71% of the Earth’s surface, the bond between human beings and water is clear. Physically, water is required for the body to function but it also can be just as vital for the mental and emotional well being. Throughout time water has been a symbol of cleansing and new beginnings making it fit perfectly into an addiction recovery program. The use of aqua therapy in addiction recovery has been shown to have many benefits:
Aqua Therapy Can Improve Well Being
Studies have shown that being in the water can aid in relieving the symptoms of stress and anxiety. The act of swimming can be used as an active form of meditation giving your mind a much-needed break. Swimming also releases endorphins that aid in calming your nerves and helping with depression.
A study performed by a Duke University professor of psychology showed that three weekly sessions of aerobic exercise were as effective as a daily dose of Zoloft when measured aft er four months.
Aqua Therapy Can Improve Circulation
The hydrostatic pressure formed when your body is submerged in water has been shown to decrease pain and increase the body’s range of motion while also increasing circulation and the body’s ability to detox. Because swimming is done in a non-weight bearing position, the heart does not beat as fast as when running or jogging yet the muscles and lungs are working just as hard.
Swimming Is an Excellent Workout
Because water is nearly 800 times denser than air the act of swimming provides a great resistance workout. While swimming is a low-impact workout it can burn up to 700 calories in an hour. The movements involved in swimming keep the joints loose while improving flexibility and increasing muscle tone. Swimming has also been shown to help reduce chronic pain.
Aqua Therapy Is More Than Just Swimming
While swimming is a great part of aqua therapy there are also many other techniques that can be used in aqua therapy. Ai Chi is a relaxing technique that teaches you to enjoy the water in a flowing and powerful progression. By going with the flow of the water you are able to clear your mind and achieve a relaxed mental state. Watsu is a technique that will use support and rocking movements to offer gentle massage, stretching, and joint mobilization.
The Lakehouse Recovery Center offers 30, 60, and 90 day programs to men and women seeking to recover from drug and alcohol addiction. In addition to providing excellent clinical care, we offer both recovery and non-recovery activities. Our goal is to show clients how to have fun again, learning how to live in recovery without drugs and alcohol.
For information, call us today: 877.762.3707