The benefits of holistic therapy are expansive, as there are several options for types of holistic practices to incorporate into one’s recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. When holistic therapy is combined with other evidence-based, traditional forms of addiction therapy, it can greatly enhance the recovery outcome for individuals.
What is Holistic Therapy?
Holistic therapy is a form of therapy that focuses on treating all areas of one’s being, including the mind, body, and spirit. Traditional forms of addiction treatment often focus on addressing issues related to one’s mental state or physical health. Holistic therapy looks to provide an all-encompassing approach to all of these areas in one’s life.
This specific type of therapy boasts an all-natural approach, where individuals utilize natural medicinal and psychological treatments to address the issues closely related to their substance use disorder. Holistic therapy has been proven to be an excellent add-on to a more rudimentary treatment plan that includes common therapeutic modalities such as individual therapy, group counseling, 12-Step treatment, and so on.
Types of Holistic Therapy
Addiction is a disease that impacts people differently, regardless of the similarities they may share when it comes to the physical abuse of drugs or alcohol. That is why some individuals benefit from one type of addiction treatment over another. Many individuals find that holistic therapy is an ideal fit for them because it aligns with their beliefs and values. It also brings them comfort during a time that can be extremely difficult, soul-bearing, and intense.
Those who include holistic therapy into their overall addiction treatment plan may incorporate one or more of the following types of holistic therapy:
- Yoga
- Tai Chi
- Massage Therapy
- Meditation
- Mindfulness
- Nutritional counseling
- Experiential therapies (equine therapy, ropes courses, etc.)
- Art therapy
- Acupuncture
- Music therapy
- Recreational therapy
The type of holistic therapy that an individual may participate in can help them address issues that contribute to their continued abuse of drugs and/or alcohol. For example, someone who struggles with low self-esteem may benefit from experiential therapy like a ropes course or equine therapy. A person who has difficulty expressing themselves vocally may succeed in art therapy or music therapy. The options are extensive and are designed to reach people from all different walks of life.
5 Benefits of Holistic Therapy
Holistic therapy has proven to be highly beneficial for countless individuals when it comes to ending active substance use disorders. Some of these benefits of holistic therapy include the following:
- Reduces risk of relapse – Relapse is easily the most threatening aspect of anyone’s recovery, and the truth is — it can happen to anyone, regardless of how long they have been sober for. But, when holistic therapy is included into one’s treatment plan, they develop coping skills that they can utilize in any space at any time, allowing them to be able to remain strong in their recovery regardless of the circumstances surrounding them.
- Increases spiritual connection with oneself – Holistic therapy possesses a strong spiritual element to it, as many of the practices within this type of therapy are rooted in a sense of there being a higher power around us and an inner peace that we possess. Holistic therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and even wilderness therapy can expand upon one’s sense of spirituality, whatever they may see it as. This connection that can be made can help individuals in recovery regain trust within themselves, build their self-esteem, and become confident in themselves that they are capable of abstaining from drug and/or alcohol use in the future.
- Offers low-cost coping skills – Holistic therapy is universally accepted for several reasons, one of which being that the skills learned during this type of therapy are either low-cost or are free. Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices are all holistic activities that can be done in any place at any time and for free. These therapies can help clear the mind, increase focus, realign one’s wants and needs, and keep individual’s from relapsing. Other holistic therapies such as art therapy or music therapy are often low cost, as individuals can make or music with most anything around them.
- Provides a peaceful environment – When someone gets to a point in their lives where recovering from drugs and alcohol is absolutely necessary, the last thing they need is to be in a place where there is constant chaos and uncertainty. Holistic therapy has a unique vibe. It is a comprehensive approach to treating all areas of one’s being in a manner that is relaxing, controlled, and sensible. One of the greatest benefits of holistic therapy is that brings peace to those who practice it, helping move the recovery process along.
- Improves one’s overall health and wellbeing – Holistic therapy has proven to improve people’s overall health and wellbeing. Not only do certain holistic therapies help to do things such as lower blood pressure and reduce physical pain, but they also help to minimize symptoms related to conditions such as anxiety and depression. Taking an all-natural approach to recovery allows for these and other benefits of holistic therapy to improve the quality of one’s life significantly.
Drug Rehab in Florida
Living with an active substance use disorder is extremely painful for both the user and those around them. Seeking professional help is absolutely critical when it comes to recovering from this specific type of disease. Thankfully, the benefits of holistic therapy can prove to be extremely influential along the way.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder and can reap the benefits of holistic therapy, contact us right now. Our caring, experienced team of professionals are ready to take your call and answer all of your questions.