Addiction recovery is rarely convenient, simple, or easy, but there are various treatment modalities that can make the process easier.

One of these modalities is yoga.

While yoga has long been a part of Eastern medicine treatments for centuries, it has only recently (in the past couple of decades) become integrated into Western wellness. 

Yoga is considered a holistic form of treatment, and one that has proven to be effective at helping people stabilize their mental and emotional states, therefore, assisting in personal development traits such as balance, confidence, and self-control. 

All of these traits are essential in maintaining sobriety, and so can greatly benefit you on your recovery journey, as well as through the rest of your life.

In this article, we’re going to take a closer look into the various health benefits of yoga for addiction recovery and we’re also going to share with you the different kinds of yoga.

What is yoga?

Simply put, yoga is a practice that unites the mind, spirit, and body. While there are multiple styles of yoga, they commonly combine concentration, breathing techniques, physical poses, as well as meditation and relaxation techniques. 

Yoga is an ancient practice that is believed to have originated in the Middle East, whose purpose is to promote mental and physical well-being. The overall purpose of yoga is to connect the mind, body, and spirit in order to promote balance and positivity in your life so you might thrive.

Some are wary of yoga due to the ancient spirituality that is commonly associated with the practice, but it’s absolutely possible to use yoga for exercise, flexibility, or overall wellness without delving into the spiritual side.

The benefits of yoga

Using yoga for addiction recovery has become increasingly popular for those struggling with substance use disorders. It is most commonly recognized to help reduce withdrawal symptoms, cravings, as well as boost confidence, the ability to foster balance in life, and the strengthening of one’s sense of self control, all of which help to promote recovery and resist relapsing.

Yoga offers a healthy coping mechanism as well as an outlet when you find yourself struggling with potential triggers or stressors. Since it doesn’t require any specific location or any expensive equipment (or any equipment at all), it’s an ideal option for many people.

Different kinds of yoga

There are many different kinds of yoga — too many for us to cover in this article alone — but we will address some of the most common forms of yoga that are integrated into addiction treatment.

These forms of yoga include hot yoga, bikram yoga, and yin yoga.

Hot yoga is an intense form of yoga that is performed in a very warm and humid studio, the primary purposes being to de-stress and relax your muscles.

Some of the hot yoga benefits include:

• Stress reduction and improved cardiovascular health
• Better balance, concentration, and sleep quality
• Relieving physical pain and tension

Bikram yoga is actually a form of hot yoga. The primary difference is bikram yoga is typically a 90-minute class that follows a certain set of yoga poses, whereas hot yoga can utilize a much wider variety of poses and forms.

Some of the bikram yoga benefits include:

• Physical detoxification
• Strengthening your muscles and bones
• Reduced stress and anxiety, and increased focus

Yin yoga focuses on targeting your deep connective tissues. It’s much slower and more meditative than other forms of yoga, making it an excellent opportunity to tune into your mind as well as your body.

Some of the yin yoga benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Increased relaxation and sleep
• Improved flexibility and strength

Hatha yoga is probably the form of yoga you unknowingly think about when you hear the word “yoga.” It typically involves meditation, breathing techniques, intentional poses, and postures for strength training.

Some of the benefits of hatha yoga include:

• Reduced anxiety, stress, and depression
• Improved joint and muscle health
• Stabilized mental and emotional health
• Better overall sense of self and surroundings

Silver Ridge views a person as a whole entity and we have a full-spectrum approach to recovery, rather than just focusing on identifying and isolating a problem. We believe that both the mind and body must be cared for when on the road to recovery, which is why we incorporate trauma-sensitive yoga into our treatment plans.

Contact us for personal support

Here at Silver Ridge, one of our primary focuses is making the admissions process as convenient and efficient as possible, because we know it can be overwhelming to reach out.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help, as it can often be the deciding factor in achieving sobriety and preventing an unnecessary overdose or death.

To speak with one of our admissions specialists (with no commitment or obligation), give us a call today at 855-945-7788.