A substance use disorder is a complex disease with no simple cure. For this reason, recovery programs must include multiple integrated therapies in their clients’ treatment plans to provide the best chance of success. A yoga therapy program is one of the best modalities to include for many clients.
There are many compelling reasons that yoga should be included as part of a holistic approach to substance use disorder treatment. If you or a loved one is seeking holistic treatment with yoga for addiction recovery, use the brief contact form or call 888.292.9652 to reach out to BlueCrest Recovery.
How Yoga in Recovery Works
Addiction treatment can only be considered comprehensive when it treats more than the addiction; it must also treat the client’s mind, body, and spirit. Including yoga in addiction rehab treatment plans can help clients recover from addiction faster and stronger.
Because yoga is a mind-body practice, it has been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, and stress, all of which frequently co-occur with substance use disorders. Yoga combines breathing exercises, meditation, and physical poses to build physical and mental strength, enhancing a client’s overall treatment experience.
In addition, yoga also helps clients connect with their minds and bodies. Breathing exercises help regulate the nervous system, meditation promotes relaxation, and yoga poses strengthen the body and improve flexibility and balance.
Additional Benefits of Practicing Yoga for Addiction Recovery
The American Osteopathic Association promotes yoga for its numerous additional mental and physical health benefits:
- Lower blood pressure
- Increased muscle tone and strength
- Weight control
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Improved circulatory health
- Better injury protection
- Reduced insomnia
- Improved athletic performance
When practiced regularly, yoga can also reduce some types of chronic pain in clients, such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back pain, and headaches.
In addition to these physical benefits, practicing yoga in recovery has mental health benefits. When clients practice yoga to effectively reduce their stress, they can also improve their ability to concentrate. They may sleep better, develop a more positive outlook on life, and strengthen their resolve to reach and maintain sobriety.
Yoga also improves body awareness, centers attention, and promotes mental clarity.
Yoga in Addiction Rehab Is Beneficial for Anyone
Yoga is an ideal part of the treatment plan for many clients because it can be done by people of all ages and all skill levels. This is because hundreds of different yoga practices exist, making it possible for anyone to start.
Clients’ abilities, experience, and fitness levels don’t matter because modifications are available for every yoga pose. Classes are available in every style, too.
The goal of yoga is for clients to explore their limits and work to expand them, which can boost self-confidence and self-esteem while improving self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to succeed.
While all of these qualities are important for individuals in rehab and recovery, self-efficacy is especially vital. If self-efficacy is not established, supported, and strengthened right from the beginning of addiction recovery and rehabilitation, it becomes more difficult for clients to succeed during treatment.
Therefore, practicing yoga can improve a client’s chances of successfully reaching and maintaining sobriety.
Gain the Benefits of Yoga in Addiction Rehab with BlueCrest Recovery
From improved sleep, reduced inflammation, and fewer cravings to better impulse control, reduced stress, and sharper mental clarity, the benefits of yoga in recovery should not be underestimated.
Yoga can be a powerful tool to help individuals with substance use disorders overcome their challenges and improve many facets of their lives. If you or someone you know needs help through yoga in addiction rehab, contact BlueCrest Recovery today at 888.292.9652.
