Drug and alcohol addictions are complex conditions. Addiction doesn’t just affect a person’s body. It can also impact the way they think, feel, and behave.

Substance use disorder (SUD) requires comprehensive treatment. People must receive medical care, emotional support, mental health treatment, and education that addresses the complex roots of substance abuse.

Holistic treatment approaches can also have significant benefits during addiction recovery. Incorporating a wide range of holistic practices can treat the whole person. People who engage in holistic therapies during recovery may have a better quality of life as they work toward long-term recovery.

This article will explore the benefits of holistic therapies in addiction recovery.

If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, holistic addiction treatment and recovery support programs at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our treatment center or to schedule an intake appointment.

What are Holistic Therapies?

Holistic therapies are practices or activities that can support a person’s overall well-being. Holistic practices offer the chance to engage the mind and body in activities that promote calm, balance, and connection.

Holistic therapies may include exercise, nutritional therapy, breathing exercises, creative expression, and more. People may engage in therapies individually or as part of a group.

People may engage in these practices on their own or as part of a mental health or addiction treatment program.

Research shows holistic therapies can improve emotional regulation, reduce stress, and increase quality of life.

Common Holistic Therapies for Addiction Recovery

Addiction treatment plans may include holistic therapies. Participating in holistic practices during recovery can help people manage withdrawal symptoms, improve overall health, and develop new skills to prevent relapse.

Here are some common holistic therapies used in addiction recovery programs.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness encourages people to stay grounded in the present moment. It may involve breathing exercises, meditation, guided imagery, and other practices. Developing mindfulness can reduce impulsive behaviors and help people gain more control over their emotions.

Animal therapy

Animal therapy involves spending time with dogs, horses, or other animals. Participants may care for the animals or simply have them present during activities or therapy sessions. Research suggests that animal therapy can lower blood pressure, improve communication, and help people regain their ability to trust others.

Yoga

Yoga, tai chi, and other mind-body exercises can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. These holistic exercises can also help to improve strength, flexibility, and general health throughout recovery.

Nutrition support

Good nutrition is critical during addiction recovery. Eating well and staying hydrated can improve mind and body health. It can also provide stable energy and help to rebalance the body’s vitamin and mineral levels after addiction.

Exercise

Exercise can help to regain strength and encourage blood flow to the brain. It can help people heal the damage addiction can do to the brain and body.

Bodywork

Massage, acupuncture, Reiki, and other forms of bodywork can calm the mind and body during recovery.

Creative therapies

People may engage in creative therapies during recovery, including:

• Art therapy
• Journaling
• Music
• Drama
• Dance

These and other creative practices provide an outlet for emotions and can help people process their feelings in new ways.

Used in combination with evidence-based physical and behavioral therapies, holistic practices can support a person’s recovery journey.

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The Benefits of Using Holistic Therapies in Addiction Treatment

Comprehensive addiction treatment programs use a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies to address the complex roots of addiction. Here are some of the benefits of holistic therapies in addiction rehab.

Reduce stress

Yoga, nutrition support, creative expression, and other holistic therapies have been proven to reduce stress. Stress can trigger relapse for many people, so learning to reduce it is critical to long-term recovery.

Healthy coping skills

Long-term addiction recovery requires people to learn new coping skills. Holistic therapies give people practical ways to reduce stress and reduce impulsive behaviors.

Find new purpose

Many people discover they need to find a new community, purpose, and direction after rehab. Holistic therapies can help them connect with others and stay active in meaningful ways during recovery.

Improve general health

Addiction can be hard on a person’s mental and physical health. Holistic practices can help people rebuild strength, improve heart health, and soothe the mind as they navigate long-term recovery.

Since addiction is more than a physical condition, it is critical to treat the whole person throughout detox and recovery. Using holistic practices can help people learn new skills and rebuild their health as they work toward a healthier future.

Find a Holistic Addiction Treatment Program

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, holistic addiction treatment and recovery support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): An holistic approach to substance abuse treatment
2. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment: Revisiting Holistic Interventions in Substance Abuse Treatment