Yoga therapy

Integrating holistic practices like yoga in addiction treatment can offer a powerful adjunct to the healing process. This ancient practice is quietly revolutionising addiction rehab, offering a powerful and transformative experience that addresses the underlying causes of substance abuse. By connecting the mind and body through yoga, you can find peace, cultivate self-awareness and feel empowered in your battle against addiction.

Oasis Runcorn offers yoga therapy as part of an effective treatment plan that can help you to overcome substance and behavioural addictions.

What is yoga therapy?

Yoga therapy is an integrative and holistic healing practice that combines the principles of yoga with therapeutic techniques to support you in your physical, emotional and mental well-being. With roots in ancient Indian philosophy, yoga therapy recognises that addiction affects the entire being, disrupting the harmony between the body, mind and spirit. By utilising physical postures (asanas), breathwork (pranayama), meditation and mindfulness, yoga therapy aims to restore balance within.

Unlike traditional yoga classes, which often focus on physical fitness and flexibility, yoga therapy tailors its approach to addiction recovery. It goes beyond the physical aspects of yoga and delves into psychological and emotional restoration.

Yoga therapy and addiction recovery

Yoga therapy holds immense potential as a complementary approach to addiction recovery. Through the combination of breath work, movement and mindfulness, you will be able to develop a heightened awareness of physical sensations, emotions and thought patterns. This connection allows you to recognise triggers and cravings, in turn providing you with the ability to manage them and prevent relapse.

Stress is also a significant factor that contributes to addiction and potential relapse. Yoga activates the body’s relaxation response, invoking a sense of calm and peace and reducing stress levels. Studies have shown that yoga induces activity in the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS is the division in your autonomic nervous system responsible for the “rest and digest” state of being (the opposite of “fight or flight”). When the PNS kicks in, it results in a more regulated breathing rate, improved cardiovascular health, reduced anxiety, increased relaxation and emotional well-being.

At Oasis Runcorn, yoga is included as part of our comprehensive addiction rehab programme. Each week you will have access to sixty and ninety-minute yoga classes alongside traditional therapies, lectures and workshops and other holistic treatments.

What is involved in a yoga therapy session?

During a yoga therapy session, you will start with some simple pranayama breathing exercises to help clear your mind. Your therapist will then guide you through a series of asana poses, working on mindful movement with the breath. At the end of the session, your therapist may lead you through a meditation exercise to help you achieve deep relaxation.

It is important to note that you do not need to be flexible or have any prior yoga experience to take part in yoga therapy, and your yoga therapist will not push you past your physical means. The aim is to achieve a state of mindfulness and acceptance of the present moment, focusing more on how your body feels.

Yoga therapy: the benefits

Yoga therapy can benefit you in your addiction recovery journey in numerous different ways. Some of the benefits of yoga therapy include:

• Improved strength, flexibility and physical health
• Enhanced immune function
• Aids in the expulsion of harmful toxins
• Ability to manage stress and negative emotions
• Regulation of the central nervous system
• Ability to recognise your own needs and emotions
• A deeper connection to your inner self

Incorporating yoga therapy into your recovery programme allows you to address the multifaceted nature of addiction. By nurturing your physical, mental and spiritual well-being, you will gain vital skills that promote a healthy, drug-free life.

Yoga after rehab

Completing addiction rehab marks a huge milestone in your recovery. However, the transition from rehab back into daily life can be challenging. The good news is that yoga can be used as part of ongoing aftercare to help you navigate life post-rehab. As you face the complexities of recovery and start to rebuild, yoga provides you with a safe space for continued emotional exploration, relaxation and self-reflection.

Yoga’s mind and body approach can help to alleviate mental health symptoms and promote a sense of well-being. Regular practice stimulates the release of endorphins, the brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, leading to improved mood, enhanced mental clarity and a greater sense of balance and stability. All of this is vital for maintaining your sobriety after rehab.

Yoga therapy at Oasis Runcorn

At Oasis Runcorn, yoga therapy is used in conjunction with a wide range of traditional therapies and supportive activities. Some of our other treatments include:

• 12-step therapy
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Art therapy
• Gong baths

Our team recognises the importance of a well-rounded programme. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to addiction recovery, and each of our clients resonates with different treatments. We are here to help you discover what works for you.

Some may hear “yoga” and feel intimidated, but there is no need to worry – our inclusive classes incorporate gentle, feel-good movement with relaxation. Our experienced yoga therapists are there to help you to let go of any anxieties and achieve a state of calm. If you have any questions about our addiction rehab programme and yoga therapy, call our friendly team on 0203 131 5938.

Frequently asked questions