Addiction makes an impact on the way a person takes care of him or herself. Addiction takes priority over all responsibilities, interferes with relationships, and lessens productivity at school and work. When a person is grappling with addiction, they often forget about self-care.
An addicted brain needs to be clear of toxic substances so it can re-learn how to function without drugs or alcohol. Yoga and meditation are effective tools for clearing the mind and improving mental and physical health in addiction recovery.
Yoga, meditation, and stress
Sometimes people use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. Yoga and meditation are healthy ways to help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. Yoga employs breathing techniques and other ways to bring deep relaxation while clearing the mind of toxic substances.
Marlynn Wei, M.D., J.D., a board-certified Harvard and Yale-trained psychiatrist and therapist said that yoga combines exercise and mindfulness, which is the practice of non-judgmental attention to experience in the present moment. She also stated, “Mindfulness practice like yoga and meditation help you learn to accept who you are without undue self-criticism or blame.” (Psychology Today).
Yoga helps to establish connections with family and acquaintances, but more importantly, with yourself. Addiction impairs your connection to your body, but yoga allows you to get to know yourself and find meaning and purpose in a life of sobriety. Maintaining mindfulness contributes to the healing of the mind, body, and spirit after addiction.
Breathing techniques and mediation are important components of healing. It incorporates deep sleep relaxation and internal recharging. Breathing is proven to make people healthier by changing the human nervous system. According to Northwestern Medicine, “The relaxation response is a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress (e.g., decreases in heart rate, blood pressure, rate of breathing, and muscle tension).”
Restoring your health and renewing your spirit
Yoga and meditation also work for family members who are affected by their loved one’s addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, get help now. While there is no cure for addiction, there is hope in recovery. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Treatment is available and recovery does happen.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204