How Does Meditation Support Long-Term Recovery?

Meditation is becoming a core component at more and more rehabs, with many folks in recovery touting its role in getting and staying sober. In fact, practicing meditation daily has been study proven to help individuals feel less stressed, more focused on the present and more attuned to the mind/body connection – all crucial for long-term recovery.

Sill meditation may seem scary or complex, but it doesn't have to be. It can be as easy as taking a few minutes each day to breathe deeply and to focus on the present moment. It’s a simple yet powerful way to quickly de-stress while getting to know yourself a bit better.

And it’s a technique that you can carry with you long after you leave addiction treatment. For example: After rehab, you’ll likely face an event, person or situation (or all of the aforementioned) that triggers your desire to use again. Meditation teaches you to tap into your inner place of peace and strength, generating a sense of ease and clarity to help you overcome the threat of such stressors and triggers.

Here are a few more ways it can help support your long-term recovery:

• You’ll combat stress and build resilience.
• You’ll develop an inner calm and connection to your inner self or higher power.
• You’ll overcome the pattern of gratification learned through substance abuse.
• You’ll improve mental functioning.
• You’ll experience physiological relief.
• You’ll relieve withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety.
• You’ll let go of negative and self-destructive thinking.
• You’ll release sabotaging emotions, like anger or jealousy.
• You’ll focus on what’s most important to you and your heart.

Breathe in the Colorado AirGuided meditation is an integral part of the residential treatment program at NorthStar. We work with our clients to develop healthy habits and routines that can continue to be used long after discharge from treatment. To learn about our addiction services, call today: 303-625-6335.