At Iris Retreat, we strongly believe in healing the mind, body, and spirit through a variety of alternative methods. The experience of massage where someone touches, respects, and cares for a person’s body—can break that cycle, helping addicts reconnect physically and center themselves emotionally. Massage may also have a powerful chemical impact on the body. By massaging the soft tissue, therapists release tension and get energy moving. The loosening of tight muscles sends the body a signal to cut down production of stress hormones, such as cortisol. This neurological response has a calming effect on body and mind. In addition, massage moves lymph through the body, assisting the body’s natural cleansing process.