The Role of Holistic Practices in Supporting Long-Term Sobriety

On the journey towards long-term sobriety, there are many essential components of the healing process. Guidance from mental health professionals, medication management, and the detox process are some of the most notable forms of evidence-based support. 

There are various forms of holistic healing that can make a major difference in your journey as well. When combined with professional support, holistic healing can significantly enhance your physical and mental well-being and help you as you strive for long-term recovery.

At Jackson House Recovery Centers, our care experts are here to support you in your recovery journey with a comprehensive, mind-body approach. Find out more below. 

Nutrition

Nutritious choices are essential to support overall health at every stage of life. A well-rounded, balanced diet can boost physical strength, positively impact mental well-being, contribute to disease prevention, and provide the body with essential nutrients for key functions. 

In your journey towards long-term sobriety, proper nutrition can help boost energy levels, support body repair processes, and make it easier to engage with treatments, ultimately contributing to long-term healing. 

Some reasons why nutrition is key in recovery include:

• Establishing Healthy Habits: Healthy habits support long-term physical and mental health, as you navigate recovery and beyond. 
• Enhancing Body Repair: A well-rounded dietary plan provides the body with the nutrients needed for essential functions, such as repairing damaged tissues, reducing inflammation, and supporting healthy organ functions. 
• Improving Physical Health: Proper nutrition helps reduce the risk of diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic inflammation, arthritis, and obesity.

Everyone has different dietary needs. However, there are some general rules that can help you get started with improving your diet, including prioritizing lean protein sources, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain ingredients, as well as ensuring hydration.

Exercise

Research shows that exercise plays a key role in the management of mental health disorders and can boost emotional and physical health. This is due to several mechanisms. 

Firstly, exercise can trigger the release of hormones in the body, such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which act as natural mood boosters and help fight depressive or anxious feelings. 

Exercise also increases energy levels, making it easier to engage in everyday activities and treatment plans. It also can prevent health problems and diseases, which can improve functional health and self-image, supporting self-confidence in achieving goals. 

Exercising for mental and physical health does not have to involve spending hours at the gym. There are many activities that can help you implement movement more naturally and sustainably in your everyday life. The key is to find ones that work best for you.

Some exercises to support your sobriety journey may include:

• Walking
• Running
• Hiking
• Weightlifting
• Biking
• Dancing
• Team sports
• Yoga

These activities don’t require significant upfront investments to get started, support socialization, and allow you to spend more time in nature, which can have a positive impact on overall emotional and physical health. 

Meditation

Meditative practices may play an important role in a more comprehensive approach to recovery. Meditation can help focus the mind, allowing you to better manage the highs and lows that come with this process, regulate anxious and depressive feelings, and prevent emotions such as overwhelm. 

Studies suggest that short, regular sessions may be more beneficial than long, infrequent ones. This is because making a habit of meditation sessions can support the development of new neural pathways, which can help change habits, support recovery, and boost cognitive health. 

To get started with meditation, all you need is a quiet spot and a little time. However, you may find that having a comfy area to sit and using guided meditation recordings may help. Here are some steps to get started:

• Find a Quiet Space: Choose a comfortable and distraction-free spot where you feel safe and relaxed.
• Set an Intention: Before you begin, focus on why you want to meditate. 
• Start Small: Begin with just two to five minutes a day to make the practice easy to stick with.
• Focus on Your Breath: Close your eyes and direct your attention to your breath.
• Acknowledge Thoughts: If your mind wanders, gently acknowledge your thoughts without judgment and return your focus to your breath.
• Use Guided Meditations: Consider using apps or online recordings to help guide you through each session.
• Practice Regularly: Try to meditate at the same time each day to build a daily habit.
• Reflect on Your Progress: After each session, take a moment to notice how you feel and recognize any positive changes, no matter how small.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is about building a different approach to everyday life and turning your attention toward the present. It helps you observe your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without judgment. This is a simple yet powerful approach that can support emotional balance and resilience, ultimately aiding in the recovery journey.

Mindfulness can be practiced at any time or place, and it can even overlap with other methods mentioned above. For instance, you can choose to be more present during your walks, meditation, or yoga sessions, making an effort to focus awareness on each breath and movement. 

Other approaches include breathing exercises, spending time in nature, or taking regular scenic walks. Put simply, practicing mindfulness is something very accessible, for which you do not need any equipment or dedicated space. However, over time, it can help support focus and awareness, which is important for long-term improvements. 

Holistic Healing at Jackson House Recovery Centers

At Jackson House Recovery Centers, we use evidence-based approaches, medication support, and expert, well-rounded care combined with holistic techniques to equip you with all the tools you need for improved wellness and long-term sobriety. 

If you are looking to learn more about how our team at Jackson House Recovery Centers can support your recovery journey, take the first step and get in touch today.