Understanding Mindfulness in Addiction Recovery Programs

Addiction recovery programs offer a wide variety of healing methods, from cognitive behavioral therapy to illness management and recovery to 12-step based practices. Mindfulness is a method that works in tandem with these evidence-based therapeutic methods to help clients work through the cycles of addiction and create thoughtful ways to manage potential relapse. In fact, mindfulness-based treatments are used and even clinically recommended to decrease substance use disorder symptoms and mental health disorders.  But what are some ways mindfulness plays a part in addiction recovery?

Breathing 

Focusing on breathing and being intentional with it is an easy mindfulness practice that you can work on immediately. It can slow down all aspects of the mind and body by simply focusing on breathing. It can also be done very purposefully at any time, meaning that it is a simple practice that you could do right now. Breathing practice is done by taking a long, slow breath in through your nose following with a long, slow breath out with your mouth. It is effective for slowing down the body’s responses, especially during a stressful moment. 

Practicing Mindfulness through Yoga 

Yoga is a practice that is not only good for your physical being, but also your mind. There are many different types of yoga practices. It has been shown to improve health and wellness, along with emotional stability. Yoga is practiced at Lucida with certified yoga instructors. Whether you have never tried yoga before or have been practicing for years, establishing new routines in recovery that increase mindfulness is essential for healthy living. 

Painting and Creating 

Creating art and allowing yourself to use creativity is a mindfulness practice that may be unique to some. While in an addiction recovery program learning different coping skills to use for mindfulness is an essential reason why treatment is so necessary. Most people struggling with substance use disorder or mental health will struggle to learn a new hobby or mindfulness practice while in active addiction or alcoholism. Learning a new technique like painting or enjoying an adult coloring book helps settle the mind and racing thoughts. It has also been shown to decrease anxiety and depression. 

Mindfulness in the moment 

Recovery teaches you how to take things one step at a time and how to be present. Learning how to be still in the moment is one of the more difficult tasks while learning how to treat substance use disorder. The above techniques that teach mindfulness are ways that teach you how to be still. Another good coping skill that helps to alleviate racing thoughts and stay grounded in the moment is journaling. Various other grounding techniques like focusing on something stationary in the room allow you to focus on being in an exact moment. 

Mindfulness is a key component of the recovery journey. Remembering that the process of recovery is not a sprint and there are no quick fixes with one size fits all recipe. While going through different therapy treatments or getting outside support from 12 step meetings, mindfulness is a lifelong practice that can be ever-changing. Mindfulness is about growth and self-care. Incorporating any mindfulness practice into your daily routine can reignite any burnt out flames that sometimes happen in the early recovery process. Of course, mindfulness is only one piece to the recovery puzzle. 

At Lucida, we encourage those entering addiction recovery programs to learn about the different ways you can practice mindfulness in early recovery as well as for years to come. If you or a loved one has experienced a relapse or needs help, let us help you reconnect with yourself.

Call us today to speak with one of our admissions professionals at 866.947.7299.