Substance use treatment programs include meditation as part of the therapeutic repertoire for a reason. It has been found that meditation, which can be practiced in a variety of ways, produces a feeling of deep relaxation and has a calming effect on the mind.
The practice of meditation while in treatment reduces some of the stress and anxiety that is sometimes experienced. More importantly though, including meditation in your post-treatment recovery routine provides many benefits. Continue reading to learn about the various types of meditation and the benefits of meditation for individuals in recovery.
What is meditation?
Meditation is a type of spiritual exercise that originated in India around 5,000 B.C. The word meditation comes from the Latin term “meditatum,” which means to ponder. Various religious systems, such as Buddhism, Taoism and Christianity have utilized meditation as a means of deepening spiritual understanding and consciousness.
Individuals in recovery are encouraged to explore the spiritual realm, as it strengthens the connection with our Higher Power. This connection is intrinsic to the spiritual awakening we eventually arrive at, which is the culmination of the 12 Steps. Meditation can assist us along this journey.
The practice of meditation, in whichever form you prefer, can produce relaxing effects on the body. While engaging in meditation, your heart and breathing rates slow down, and your blood pressure is lowered.
What are 4 benefits of meditation in addiction recovery?
Should you dismiss meditation as a trend without merit, think again. Studies provide scientific evidence of the many positive effects of meditation on the mind and body. These include:
- Reduced stress
- Decreased anxiety
- Decreased depression
- Increased energy
- Improved memory
- Increases blood flow to the brain
- Reduces cholesterol
The effects of meditation can provide significant benefits to individuals in recovery. Consider these four primary benefits of meditation:
- Provides time for reflection: Pausing for 15–30 minutes for some quiet reflection allows you to sit in the moment and ponder your recovery progress and your blessings.
- Helps control stress hormones: The stress-reducing properties associated with practicing meditation translate to lower levels of the stress hormones cortisol, adrenaline and norepinephrine.
- Improves sleep quality: Practicing meditation on a regular basis before bedtime can help quiet the mind, which results in better sleep quality. Sound sleep has a positive effect on your entire day.
- Deepens spirituality: A holistic approach to recovery involves attending to the whole person, including the mind, body and spirit. Meditation helps nurture the spiritual side of our being.
What are some types of meditation?
With an assortment of meditation options, you are sure to discover one that works for you. Here are four types of meditation to consider trying:
- Traditional meditation: The classic form of meditation involves some quiet alone time, hopefully with minimal distractions, while you train your mind to ignore distracting thoughts. Some may use an object to focus on, or a repetitive phrase to help them avoid thought distractions.
- Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness trains the mind to focus on the present moment. This is accomplished by purposely turning attention away from distracting thoughts and towards experiencing the here and now.
- Guided imagery meditation: Guided imagery uses recorded tracks that take us on a journey in our mind. A soothing voice leads us through the scenes where we imagine the peaceful setting it describes.
- Yoga or Tai Chi: There are action-based meditation techniques, such as hatha yoga or Tai Chi. These involve focused breathing, mindfulness and physical poses that work together to achieve a meditative state.
Part of the allure of meditation is exploring the many forms it can take, and then finding one that really suits your preferences. Make meditation a part of your regular self-care routine in recovery today!
Ashley Addiction Treatment, formerly Father Martin’s Ashley, is a nationally recognized nonprofit leader in integrated, evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. Our programs are accredited by The Joint Commission, and result in frequent publications of ongoing research into effective treatment methodologies. We offer holistic care that encompasses the mind, body and spirit through inpatient and outpatient treatment, provide drug detox, relapse prevention plans, family wellness programs and a variety of other services tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our driving principle — “everything for recovery” — reinforces our mission to transform and save lives through the science of medicine, the art of therapy and the compassion of spirituality, and is complemented by our philosophy of healing with respect and dignity. For information about our comprehensive programs, please call 866-313-6307.
