People avoid checking themselves into recovery centers for a lot of reasons. They may be afraid of what others will think about them, or they may have had a previous negative experience at a center. Fear of the unknown can also be a factor. It may be that you have been to a treatment center whose medications and multiple groups a day did not help you. Holistic treatments for addiction is what you are looking for.
When you think about treatment methods for substance use and mental health issues you may not think of such activities as walking, running, swimming, and yoga. In fact, many things other than typical clinical treatment methods can help you recover spiritually, mentally, and physically from a substance use disorder (SUD). Holistic treatments for addiction, physical movement and mindfulness are two of the best-kept secrets in recovery.
Holistic treatments, a Way to Heal
There are many holistic methods that have proved to be useful in addiction recovery. Below are a few good examples of physical and spiritual activities that help in the recovery process.
Swimming
The essence of moving meditation is swimming, whether you swim a lap or doggie paddle a mile. It is a full-body workout that helps improve concentration, boosts your mood, and helps heal emotional scars. When you swim, you release your brain’s endorphins, or “feel-good” chemicals, while improving overall health. Studies show that swimming can decrease depression and anxiety and boost overall mood and it is part of an holistic treatments for addiction.
Yoga
Despite the mainstream images of yoga and those who participate in yoga classes, you do not have to bend yourself into the shape of a pretzel, stand on your head, or even balance on one foot to participate in the benefits of yoga. Yoga is not about bending yourself into uncomfortable shapes. Rather, it is about breathing into each pose and improving your mental clarity. Yoga does not have to be complicated or even pretty. This form of mindful movement is emerging as one of the most popular holistic methods for dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues. As you connect with your breath through meditation, you can slow down the world outside for just a few minutes.
No mat? No problem. You can practice on a towel or a bare floor if that is what you have. You don’t need fancy yoga gear like blocks, bolsters, or yoga straps. There are plenty of things in your home that can make acceptable replacements. Use pillows instead of bolsters, use a big towel or t-shirt in place of a strap, or a stack of books instead of blocks.
If you don’t feel comfortable practicing in a yoga studio or a class, YouTube is a great place to find classes you can do from home. There are also apps like Alomove.com, Gaia, and Yoga International that allow you to practice in your own space.
Walking or Running
You do not have to be a power walker or distance runner to receive the benefits of these exercises. Not everybody is made for running, but most bodies are made for walking short and long distances. Walking and running help alleviate depression and anxiety while boosting self-confidence and overall well-being. Going for a short walk helps clear your mind and improve your focus. Walking helps you connect to the places around you by giving you a chance to look at the world around you. As you begin to focus your attention on what is around you, you can forget the chaos in your head.
If you are not an experienced runner but would like to start you can begin by alternating between running and walking until you feel confident to run longer between walking breaks. Running takes time and patience with yourself, and some days will be better than others. Be proud of every step you take.
Wellness Does Not Have to Be Complicated
Recovery from mental health issues and substance abuse does not have to be complicated, and your overall daily wellness does not have to be either. Running, walking, swimming, and yoga are just a few of the activities you can engage in. Studies have shown that physical movement can help improve your mental health.
You do not have to be an athlete, nor do you have to be able to bend yourself into a pretzel while wearing skin-tight clothing. Do only what you can do. Show up every day for yourself, and show yourself grace when you cannot. Each day carries new chances for you to be good to yourself.
Engaging in physical activities will give you a chance to know yourself and be proud of what your body is capable of. If you find that doing these activities alone seems mundane, there may be running, walking, swimming, and yoga groups in your area that you can join. Building a healthy support group while improving your physical and mental health are beneficial ways to aid your recovery journey.
Twilight Recovery Center understands the recovery journey
When most people think about recovery centers, they envision locked-down wards where they are surrounded by medical staff and made to go to group therapy. Recovery does not have to begin that way. Twilight Recovery Center understands the recovery journey can be arduous. Twilight offers more than medications and group therapy. Our center provides person-centered holistic therapies that help you release any negative energies. We have prevented you from becoming the best version of yourself. Twilight’s highly skilled and compassionate staff will provide guidance and support. You will begin to work through any traumas and deep hurts that you have experienced. Everyday life is chaotic. Why not provide yourself with a calm and relaxing environment? Forget the chaos of your everyday life for a few weeks. Twilight’s all-inclusive center strive to provide an environment where you can relax in luxury and heal. Call us at (888) 414-8183.