Recovery involves so much more than simply getting clean and sober.
Recovery is about healing your mind, body and spirit all at once. Holistic approaches are different because they treat every aspect of a person’s health as opposed to isolated symptoms.
The good news? These practices are becoming more mainstream than ever before.
Coupled with flexible outpatient treatment options, results can be extraordinary.
Here’s what you need to know:
- A Complete Breakdown of Holistic Recovery Methods
- Why Outpatient Programmes are the Most Effective
- Incredible Health and Beauty Benefits of Wellness-Based Recovery
- Top Holistic Therapies That Are Clinically Proven to Work
A Complete Breakdown of Holistic Recovery Methods
Holistic treatment approaches take into account a person’s emotional, mental and spiritual health all at once.
Here’s how this idea applies to addiction treatment and recovery…
Traditional treatment programmes help a person break physical dependence on a substance. Holistic approaches help a person dig into the ‘why’ of substance use that often is not discussed in regular addiction treatment.
Holistic methods are even more impactful when incorporated into a treatment program like those found at: https://novararecoverycenter.com/programs/outpatient/ -People get to receive intensive care while also continuing their everyday lives.
Addiction takes a major toll on the body, and the health and beauty aspects of that are no joke. Wellness practices are critical for recovery and healing.
Skin problems, sleep disorders, nutritional deficiencies, mental fog, and emotional dysregulation are just some of the many things that people experience during substance abuse and addiction.
Holistic treatment methods can help with all of them, and here’s the other kicker…
According to SAMHSA’s national data, 9.8 million people received care in outpatient programmes for substance use disorder last year.
That’s 9.8 million people who chose outpatient care in 2023 versus residential addiction treatment options.
Why Outpatient Programmes are the Most Effective
The primary reason that outpatient programmes work so well is because they are real life.
A person in recovery can access individual and group therapy sessions, counselling, medication management, holistic practices, and family sessions.
All while still maintaining responsibilities at work and home.
It’s something that people often don’t realise at first. That recovery happens in everyday life. You have to learn how to avoid triggers while also navigating the many stressors that life throws at you.
Addiction doesn’t just go away after a person becomes sober.
Coping skills are actually built when someone is able to practice new ways of living while also having the support and treatment at their fingertips.
Outpatient addiction treatment programmes typically include:
- Individual therapy sessions
- Group counselling
- Medication management as needed
- Holistic wellness services
- Family therapy sessions
Structure allows people to slowly start re-integrating into their day-to-day lives. This all can happen while also having the support and professional help available.
But here’s the real kicker…
Mixing traditional therapy with holistic approaches produces a more comprehensive recovery. Practices like cognitive behavioural therapy work even better when combined with yoga and meditation.
Incredible Health and Beauty Benefits of Wellness-Based Recovery
Addiction makes a person look and feel their absolute worst. This is an absolute no brainer because substances take a heavy toll on the body.
The changes that occur during a holistic recovery process are incredible and they affect much more than just getting clean and sober.
The physical improvements alone typically include:
- Clearer skin and complexion
- Improved sleep patterns and quality
- Boosted energy levels
- Healthy weight and weight management
- Improved immune system function
These changes occur because holistic recovery programmes place an emphasis on nutrition, exercise and self-care.
Once the body gets proper nourishment and rest, it begins the healing process on its own.
It doesn’t stop there…
Cognitive function and mental clarity improve drastically. The brain fog lifts over time. Mood regulation becomes less difficult to manage. Stress management techniques can be utilised through mindfulness and meditation.
Research has found that relapse rates range from 40-60% for those with substance use disorders. This number reduces significantly when a person engages in more comprehensive treatment.
One that involves treating various aspects of a person’s health and well-being.
That’s the beauty of a holistic recovery method. It gives a person tools and the skills needed to manage cravings and emotions. It also allows for the maintenance of long-term recovery.
Key Holistic Therapies That Are Clinically Proven to Work
What do holistic treatment and therapy methods look like in action?
There are many evidence supported therapies that work in tandem with traditional addiction treatment.
Each one offers benefits and supports different aspects of recovery.
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation involve present moment awareness and recognising triggers. This method of practice can help to reduce anxiety, focus, and build emotional stability.
That’s pretty amazing, right?
Skills and tools from mindfulness are utilised long after a person completes treatment. They don’t require any additional equipment or space. Meditation and mindfulness can be done anywhere, at any time.
Nutritional Therapy
Nutritional deficiencies are common among those in addiction. Abuse depletes the body of important vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional counselling can help to address this through proper diet and supplementation.
Nutritional improvements can lead to:
- Stabilised mood and emotions
- Consistent energy levels
- Accelerated physical healing
- Improved cognitive function
Cooking classes are offered in many programmes. Meal planning becomes a crucial component of holistic recovery.
Physical Fitness and Yoga
Physical exercise naturally releases endorphins in the body that can lift mood without the use of a substance.
Yoga, in particular, has the added benefits of physical movement combined with breath work and meditation.
Benefits are improved over time. Mental and physical flexibility increase. Physical strength builds, which can lead to more confidence. The discipline needed for regular yoga practice can carry over into other areas of recovery.
Creative Therapies
Expressive art, music, and writing workshops are all emotional outlets. Creative therapies do not require verbal expression.
Verbal communication can be a major challenge for many in recovery. Articulating words and feelings may seem impossible at first.
Creative therapies can open the door for other avenues for difficult emotions to be processed and dealt with in a healthy manner.
Massage and Acupuncture
Physical therapies are also included in many holistic recovery programmes. Therapies like massage and acupuncture can help to reduce physical tension in the body.
Acupuncture has also shown to be an effective method for reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
These practices also help to remedy the self-care deficit that is so common with addiction. Learning to take care of the body once again helps to support overall recovery.
Bringing It All Together
Holistic recovery is a complete game changer.
Addiction treatment no longer needs to be looked at as an isolated issue. Instead, holistic practices take into account every aspect of a person’s health.
Marrying evidence based practices with holistic wellness leads to powerful results.
People are not just abstaining from using substances.
Individuals are completely transforming their way of living.
Here’s the deal…
The recovery process is no walk in the park. It takes work, support and the right tools. Holistic outpatient programmes provide all of these and more while still allowing a person to live their everyday life.
Physical and beauty benefits are visible reminders of the internal healing that is occurring. Clearer skin, brighter eyes, and a more energetic appearance reflects the change that is happening internally.
Whether a person is just beginning the recovery journey or looking to enhance their current sobriety status. Holistic approaches have something to offer.
They work at the root of the issues, help to build stronger coping skills and promote long term wellness.
This is the type of comprehensive and effective treatment that leads to long-lasting recovery.