5 Ways Yoga Benefits Recovery
There is no doubt that exercise and a healthy diet are essential to improving your recovery, but if you are on the fence about what kind of exercise fits you best, then consider these reasons why yoga might be your thing.
1. Yoga and meditation.
Yoga is well known for its meditative functions. While you stretch your body, you are also instructed to breathe and focus on the different elements of your stretch, the way your body is moving, and the way it makes your body feel. Thanks to the work of Dr. Richard Davidson of the University of Wisconsin, we know that those who meditate experience more happiness due to the increased activity of the left prefrontal cortex. Not convinced that meditation is for you? Check out this infographic– courtesy of www.artofliving.org- about the best outcomes many people experience when they meditate.
2. Increased oxygen flow.
We have also discussed the benefits of treating your potential tobacco use with substance use. But did you know that yoga can not only help you overcome a tobacco addiction, but also aid in your body’s recovery from the harmful effects of tobacco use? Tobacco use greatly affects your body’s lung function which then affects breathing capabilities, and therefore oxygen levels in your system. As you practice yoga, you are expected to breathe through each pose, deeper and deeper in order to increase your oxygen flow. More oxygen means faster recovery and more energy to continue on your path to a clean life.
3. Improves your connection with the world around you.
We all experience some level disconnectedness with the world around us at times. However, some react to this uncomfortable feeling with drug use. It’s not a simple task overcoming an addiction, but yoga can not only benefit your physical stamina, but also your ability to focus on the world around you- your awareness stamina, so to speak. This ability will help you recognize your triggers, which then will give you the tools you need to replace your negative reactions with positive ones.
4. Adds to positive interactions with those around you.
Yoga doesn’t have to be a personal activity, even though it can be. Many people enjoy the company of others while they are in recovery. There are many different types of yoga, couples yoga, parent-child yoga, and group yoga. You can find classes at your local gym or through your parks and recreation department. You can find many yoga instructional videos on YouTube, as well. These are options that you can consider doing with your family, significant other, or to make new friends if you attend a class. There are many options when it comes to yoga, it won’t hurt to try them all out!
5. Gives you many new tools for self-care.
One of the greatest challenges of recovery is learning the proper techniques to taking care of your whole self. This is why attending rehabilitation is so beneficial to many- it is as if you are starting all over again to relearn how to take care of yourself and erase those negative natural tendencies with substance use. With yoga, you are exercising, meditating, setting goals, establishing a routine, and joining a community. These are all the types of elements of recovery that you need to get and stay on the path of healing.
If you aren’t convinced by these 5 benefits, consider these other 38 reasons that you should implement a habit of yoga in your recovery process. Additionally, if you are considering residential treatment in order to get back on track, please give us a call or email. We offer yoga as part of our residential treatment program, as well as massage therapy, pet therapy, and other exercise options. Please call or email us if you have any questions at all.
360-397-8246 ext. 7580 and admission_office@lifelineconnections.org.
