The Benefits of Adding Yoga to Your Addiction Recovery Program
Yoga tends to get a bad rap, in our opinion. Many people think it’s just the trendy thing to do, and that it costs lots of money for little benefit.
This couldn’t be further from the truth. The science is there to back up yoga’s benefits for the body and mind, and it isn’t just an activity for those with money to burn.
In fact, it can have plenty of benefits for those recovering from addiction. Read on to see why you should add yoga to your addiction recovery program.
The Benefits of Adding Yoga to Your Addiction Recovery Program
1. Yoga Provides a Fantastic Physical Outlet
You’re going through a lot as you begin your recovery process, physically and mentally. You’re likely experiencing a rush of emotions you haven’t felt in quite some time, including guilt or shame.
Having a physical outlet can be a critical component of your recovery process. You’ll likely feel uncomfortable in therapy and as you experience detox.
While an addiction recovery program helps your mind, it should also help your body. Recovery builds up your inner strength, but don’t neglect your physical strength.
And if you’re worried that you can’t do yoga, you don’t have to do anything strenuous for yoga to be effective. Try some of the easier poses, such as the Fire Log Pose or Mountain Pose.
Even if you’re a complete beginner there are tons of poses that can help build your strength and improve flexibility.
Be sure that you’re treating your body as well as you’re treating your mind.
2. Yoga Allows for the Practice of Self-Discipline
Every addict struggles with self-discipline to a certain degree. If you’re not sure why it’s because our brains are wired differently.
This wiring can make self-discipline difficult, especially when relapse is a constant threat.
But what is self-discipline and why is it so important to practice? More importantly, how does yoga fit in?
At its core, self-discipline can be defined as our brain’s way of refusing temptation.
For example, let’s say you’re at a party where you know alcohol will be present. Your first response will likely be to reach for a drink. However, you know the risks of a relapse are high to begin with, and you choose not to partake.
In this situation, you’ve just exercised good self-discipline. You knew something was bad for you and you chose not to get involved.
Creating a yoga workout and sticking to it works the same way. It’s an easy and healthy way to practice your self-discipline.
Try and work out at least 3 to 4 times a week.
3. Yoga can Help Your Mental Well-Being
There’s a lot going on in your mind. You may be trying to readjust to life during or after rehab.
It’s important that you take some time to check in with your feelings daily. Yoga is a great way to do this.
Find a quiet place, sit down on the mat in Fire Log, close your eyes, and quiet your mind. It’ll take some getting used to, as your brain probably isn’t accustomed to being still.
But soon you’ll learn to quiet your mind and recognize your current mental state.
We can Help
Yoga is a great addition to your addiction recovery program and can fit into nearly any recovery plan. Make sure you’re taking the time out of your day to keep yourself healthy and safe.
And if you or a loved one needs help recovering from the throes of addiction, please get in touch today. You deserve a better, healthier life.
Reviewed and Assessed by
Taylor Brown, B.A.Com., MAADC II
Tim Coleman, M. of Ed.