There are a number of ways that people can deal with addiction. However, sometimes an evidence-based approach isn’t enough. Experts talk about the need for people who struggle with addiction to limit stress. One way that they can is through holistic treatments, including mindfulness meditation.
What Is Mindfulness Meditation?
The idea behind mindfulness meditation is for people to completely engage themselves in what’s going on around them. The act of meditation helps them pay close attention to their current experiences. To focus on these experiences, they have to turn off the chatter that goes on in their minds.
How Can This Type of Meditation Help Fight Addiction?
One of the first steps in fighting addiction is to discover and overcome the emotional cause. Addiction often takes hold of people because of emotional distress. Some common emotions that lead to addiction include:
- Pessimism
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Depression
Mindfulness meditation affects activity in the amygdala, an area of the brain that regulates emotions. Studies show that relaxing the amygdala counters anxiety responses.
This type of meditation can strengthen the bilateral, prefrontal region of the brain. This specific area processes possibility, spaciousness and a sense of well-being. Meditation basically rewires the brain so that it can learn again.
Getting the brain to learn again is important and something that scientists didn’t think possible. They used to assume that the ability of the brain to learn and create new structures stops with childhood. Studies show that by using the right techniques, the brain can still enjoy these benefits into adulthood.
How Do People Use This Type of Meditation?
Mindfulness meditation doesn’t differ so much from normal meditation. First, people find a comfortable and quiet place to meditate. Next, they push thoughts about the past and future out of their minds. Their goal is to stay in the present and focus on their current experiences.
When using this type of meditation in rehab, it helps people focus on a recovery plan. Instead of focusing on what happens after rehab or relapse, individuals focus on healing. Doing so helps reduce stress and anxiety that comes from unknown factors.
Learning how to meditate properly isn’t always easy. However, some rehab centers offer holistic options that can teach people the ins and outs of meditation. With professional help, individuals can learn how to use meditation in a way that benefits them during and after rehab.
Other Ways to Meditate
Mindful meditation doesn’t mean that people have to sit still and relax. There are other ways to go about using this type of meditation. For example, some people enjoy meditating while they work out. Watching TV helps workouts go faster, but they can use that time to meditate instead.
People can even meditate doing mundane chores such as washing the dishes. Meditating only requires reaching a state of relaxation. Keep in mind, however, that people typically need to practice meditation before they try it with other activities.
Find Out More About Holistic Therapy at The Dunes East Hampton
The Dunes East Hampton believes in using holistic and evidence-based approaches to treatment. In fact, we create custom treatment plans for each of our clients to address their individual needs. Some of the different programs that we offer include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Residential rehab
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Interventions
- Aftercare
We provide a lot of activities for our residents, such as kayaking, hiking, bowling and going to the beach. Unlike some rehab centers, we also allow them to use their tablets and phones.
Don’t attempt to fight your addiction alone. Come see how our holistic approach to treatment can help you overcome addiction. Reach out to The Dunes East Hampton today at 877-818-5539.