An Overview of Alternative Holistic Therapies
Holistic approaches to the treatment of alcoholism and addiction play a vital role in helping a recovering addict regain balance. As addiction specialists and drug rehab programs become more aware of the benefits of holistic therapies, and as the body of supporting scientific research continues to expand, the following alternative therapies are being integrated into addiction treatment programs worldwide.
Acupuncture - Developed in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture is part of a system of medicine that seeks to restore the flow of energy (or qi) through the insertion of thin needles on specific points along the energy pathways of the body. According to ancient philosophy, blocked qi is the cause of disharmony and disease in the body and mind. In modern addiction treatment, acupuncture is often used to reduce the discomfort of withdrawal and to help detoxify the body of drugs and alcohol. Auricular (ear) acupuncture has proven particularly effective in helping recovering addicts experience less anxiety and irritability, fewer cravings and muscle aches, and a greater ability to concentrate and relax.
Biofeedback - Biofeedback uses instruments to provide immediate information to patients about their internal bodily processes. Through greater body awareness, patients can then learn to manage those processes. This technique has been used to reduce muscular tension, heart rate, and blood pressure, and to reduce stress and anxiety during withdrawal. As patients begin to feel in control of their physiology, they report feeling more confident and empowered to fight their addiction.
Meditation - Meditation has been used for over 5,000 years in the Buddhist and Hindu religious traditions to quiet the mind, promote relaxation and mental clarity, relieve symptoms of depression, and produce an overall sense of hope and well-being. Of the various types of meditation, transcendental meditation has proven most effective in reducing the rate of relapse and cravings for drugs, alcohol, and other substances. For many, meditation's greatest power to heal lies in a profound spiritual awareness and connection to a higher power attained through deep breathing and quiet self-reflection.
Qigong - Qigong is an ancient Chinese system of postures, breathing techniques, and meditations designed to enhance the flow of qi in the body. Also called "meditation in motion," qigong has been associated with increased blood flow to the brain, increased oxygen metabolism, deeper and more restorative sleep, lower blood pressure, and improved immune system functioning. It has also been shown to aid in recovery from addiction by reducing anxiety and the length and severity of withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.
Yoga - The stretching, deep breathing, and slow, controlled movements of yoga can be both relaxing and restorative. By practicing yoga regularly, individuals can enjoy increased flexibility, a sense of inner calm, heightened awareness of the mind-body connection, and improved focus, concentration, and impulse control. In addition, yoga can help regulate levels of the "feel good" neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, and can trigger the release of endorphins, producing a natural high.
Animal-Assisted Therapy - Animal-assisted therapy has been used in a wide variety of settings, from hospitals and prisons to drug rehab centers and schools, to help people with acute and chronic illnesses. When people interact with animals, whether dogs, horses, or dolphins, they experience many physiological and psychological benefits including lowered blood pressure and heart rate, increased endorphin levels, decreased stress and anxiety, reduced feelings of anger, hostility, and helplessness, improved social functioning, and heightened feelings of empowerment, trust, and patience.
Expressive Arts Therapy - Expressive therapies in the fields of dance, art, drama, music, writing, and poetry provide a non-threatening form of communication and self-expression when thoughts and feelings cannot be easily expressed in words. Many people who learn differently or have experienced trauma, family struggles, or other issues need a creative outlet to express themselves and to explore their strengths and passions. Participating in music, drama, dance, or other creative arts programs helps recovering addicts release pent-up emotions, manage stress, improve mood, and resolve conflicts.
Massage & Bodywork - Massage is a great holistic tool for linking information from our external surroundings to our internal environment. The healing power of therapeutic touch through massage and bodywork has been well-documented. Research suggests massage helps decrease anxiety, depression, agitation, and cravings while improving body awareness, energy, relaxation, and circulation.
Nutrition - Nutrition can significantly impact how we feel and how well our bodies function. A well-rounded diet combined with nutritional supplementation with herbs, amino acids, vitamins, and other nutrients can strengthen the immune system, improve mood, enhance the process of detoxification, and restore the body's natural balance. Some doctors and nutritionists also recommend eliminating certain substances such as sugars and simple starches and increasing protein intake to help rebalance brain chemistry and reduce cravings that often lead to relapse.
Wilderness Therapy - A discussion of holistic approaches to recovery wouldn't be complete without mention of wilderness therapy. Spending a few weeks or months in a safe and tranquil natural environment can reinvigorate the mind, body, and soul, and provide the time and space to reflect on past decisions and future goals. Some wilderness therapy programs specialize in holistic addiction treatment and recovery, and incorporate expressive therapies such as art, music, or drama therapy and other creative arts into the wilderness experience.