Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise that is typically used to promote a sense of calm and spirituality. WhiteSands Treatment Center employs yoga as an alternative therapy for the treatment and healing of addiction. This exercise helps to control and redirect unhealthy thoughts and emotions, and promotes a healthy lifestyle.
Research has shown that yoga increases the production levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, responsible for controlling feelings of anxiety and fear. Those who are dependent on drugs exhibit low levels of this brain chemical. This exercise is said to raise its levels by more than 20%. Through breathing techniques and muscle stretching, yoga provides patients with a sense of calmness, allowing them to focus more and fully participate in their recovery. It also encourages discipline and dedication; two skills that are highly valuable throughout the rehabilitation process.
At WhiteSands Treatment Center, patients will learn new ways to cope with negative thoughts and emotions. Some of the coping techniques provided by yoga include:
- Breathing techniques
- Self-discipline
- Reflection
- Acceptance of self
- Emotional strength
- Spirituality
The Benefits
Yoga is helpful to patients who suffer from stress and anxiety. It provides them with a sense of calm, focus, peace and positivity. Exercise produces endorphins, which are responsible for making the body and the mind feel happy, at ease and relaxed. It helps to stabilize their mood and allows them to have an emotional outlet.
Our certified yoga instructors can teach patients breathing techniques, which help them to concentrate and channel any negative thoughts, emotions, fears or worries they may have. Being able to manage these feelings is essential when going through the rehabilitation process.
Yoga can help address the following side effects connected to substance abuse and addiction:
- Depression
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Impulsivity
- Anxiety
- Tiredness
- Anger
This therapy can help patients in recovery to change their mindsets about their bodies and minds. As they do it on a regular basis, they begin to understand that they’re bodies are sacred vessels, and that they must do everything in their power to take care of them. Drugs and alcohol only cause damage; by adopting a new, healthier lifestyle, recovering addicts will be able to focus on more positive thoughts and learn to better cope with life’s daily stress.