Though yesterday was Father’s Day, and we were sure to highlight men’s mental health the week prior, yesterday was also observed as the International Day of Yoga, 2020. It is not secret that we at Top of the World Ranch find value in nature and physical activity as a component of healing, especially for addiction. But why exactly is that? What is Yoga? What are the benefits of Yoga for addiction? Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word derives from Sanskrit and means translates to “to join or unite,” symbolizing the union of body and consciousness. It is practiced in many forms, and is done so across the world as it grows in popularity. According to one particular Healthline article, there are a number of benefits that are associated with Yoga, including:
- Decreased stress and promoting relaxation
- Relieving anxiety
- Potentially reducing inflammation in the body, in addition to improving mental health
- Yoga may improve heart health
- Improving quality of life
- Fighting depression
- Reducing chronic pain
- Improving sleep and quality of sleep
- Improving flexibility and balance
- Yoga can better your breathing
- Alleviating migraines
- Mindfulness, emphasized in Yoga, may encourage better eating habits
- Increasing your physical strength
When Yoga is used to manage mental health, it is often used to manage anxiety and depression. These two mental health disorders often occur alongside addiction, also known as co-occurring disorders. In addition to the many benefits listed above, the lessons taught in Yoga actually target the areas in the brain that are affected by addiction. Furthermore, Yoga is being increasingly used in substance abuse treatment programs and throughout recovery to help prevent relapse, reduce withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings, and provide a healthy outlet to cope with potential triggers and daily life stressors. Tishanna Dillard, Marketing Operations Specialist
If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction, give us a call at the Top of the World Ranch in Milan, Illinois. Come join us at our beautiful ranch. We can be reached at (844) 814-8885, or you can email [email protected]