The health care system has realized the benefits of yoga therapy for addiction treatment. Because of that, people are more likely to attend yoga classes in rehab. However, some of them might worry about their capability to practice the poses. Learning more can help them see that yoga is a safe, holistic treatment that anyone can do.

An Overview of Yoga

Participating in yoga therapy during drug rehabAs an ancient Hindu philosophy, yoga combines the mental, physical and spiritual aspects of the body. It focuses on using asanas or poses with breathing techniques and meditation to achieve inner balance. The poses range from beginner to advanced, allowing anyone to do them.

The practice can improve mood and promote relaxation and physical strength. Also, the philosophy adopts concepts such as mental focus, moral principles and striving toward self-awareness.

Hindu worshipers have used yoga for centuries to achieve spiritual enlightenment and relieve physical and mental pain. In the United States, many people use it as an exercise or a form of stress relief. Yoga therapy has only become a consistent complement to addiction treatment in the last 10 years or so.

There are several forms of yoga. Hatha yoga is the most common form that US practitioners use. It focuses on meditation, breathing techniques, and posture exercises. The purpose is to heal the mind, body, and soul.

Jnana yoga involves seeking self-realization and wisdom through meditation. It uses mental techniques such as conscious illumination, self-reflection, and self-questioning. Karma yoga uses various body movements to reduce ego and eliminate self-centeredness.

Bikram yoga involves performing 26 demanding postures in a room that’s about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The purpose is to cleanse the body and release tension through sweating. Bhakti yoga is a spiritual-focused form that involves devotion to a higher power through meditation with chanting.

How Yoga Therapy Aids Addiction Treatment

Research shows that mindfulness based treatment techniques such as yoga can help people overcome addiction and mental disorders. However, it’s crucial that they receive evidence-based therapy as well.

According to brain scans, people with substance use disorder show hyperactivity in the brain. The regions that it affects make them more vulnerable to behavioral and mood problems. The scans also show that they have a higher likelihood of self-absorption.

Yoga therapy can release clients from this self-interest. Practitioners also have better connectivity throughout their brains and can achieve cerebral balance. Poor cerebral balance is one reason why those with addiction focus on drug cravings.

Furthermore, studies indicate that people with addiction have lower levels of the neurotransmitter GABA. Because of that, they’re likely to develop anxiety and other mental disorders. Yoga increases GABA levels, which reduces addiction symptoms such as anxiety and stress.

The Medical Benefits

People with substance use disorder can develop a lot of health conditions. Fortunately, yoga therapy can reduce the risk for heart disease and high blood pressure. It also soothes chronic pain, improves insomnia and increases immunity.

There are many mental benefits of practicing yoga too. It can help people increase self-compassion and self-acceptance and reduce hostility. Some people can manage anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder with this mindfulness technique.

Because of its benefits, yoga is a useful tool that can help rewire the brain to avoid mental illness or relapse. It can even make people more open to engaging in evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

Holistic Treatment at Beaches Recovery

If you’re ready for addiction treatment, it’s vital that you find a rehab facility that takes a holistic approach. Beaches Recovery is a Joint Commission-accredited treatment center in Jacksonville, Florida that addresses your overall well-being. We use a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment methods, including:

Beaches Recovery also stands out from the crowd because we offer detox at Tides Edge. This service ensures that you receive a full continuum of care to overcome addiction and maintain your sobriety. We also have gender-specific rehab programs to address the specific needs that you face. Our welcoming community wants to make sure you have all of the skills and tools you need.

Learn how to be a healthier, more compassionate version of yourself through yoga therapy. Join a rehab program at Beaches Recovery for guidance. Call us at 866.605.0532 now to find out how.