It’s no secret that meditation can be beneficial for the mind and body, but did you know that it can also help people struggling with substance use disorders? In this blog post, we will discuss how meditation can help those suffering from addiction and provide some tips on getting started.
The Benefits of Meditation for People with a Substance Use Disorder
Meditation has been shown to have a number of benefits for people who are struggling with substance use disorders. For example, meditation can help reduce stress and promote self-awareness. These benefits can help people stay sober and focused on their goals in recovery.
In addition to the above, meditation can also provide the following benefits:
- The relaxation response associated with meditation helps counteract anxiety.
- Meditation improves sleep quality by decreasing insomnia.
- Meditation can help improve mood, which can lead to a boost in self-esteem.
- Regular practice can help enhance focus and support a healthy lifestyle.
How to Start Meditating?
Meditation is simple! You don’t need any special equipment or knowledge to get started right away. Just follow these easy steps:
Find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably on the floor or chair, close your eyes and focus on your breath. Breathe in slowly through your nose while counting to four; hold that breath for another count of four before exhaling out through pursed lips (like blowing air into a balloon). Repeat for five rounds.
If you find it difficult to focus on your breath, try focusing on a mantra or a particular word or phrase that you repeat to yourself. You can also focus on a specific image in your mind, such as a peaceful place or loved one. As with anything new, practice makes perfect. The more you meditate, the easier it will become.
If you’re struggling with a substance use disorder and would like to try meditation, we highly recommend seeking guidance from a professional. There are many helpful books and online resources on how to meditate, but it can be beneficial to have someone teach you the basics in person.
The benefits of a long-term meditation practice can be huge, especially for people in recovery from substance use disorders. Don’t worry about diving into a long session as you get started with meditation. Starting with just a few minutes each day can begin to provide a boost to your mental health and help you on your journey toward recovery.
Hannah’s House is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for addiction and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting sobriety.
For information on our programs, call us today: 561.841.1272.