Holistic approaches are part of many recovery programs.
They can help you heal and grow through all stages of recovery.
- Guided Imagery
This simple practice can help you cope better with stress, improve your sleep, ease pain and relax more deeply – by using your imagination to help you heal.
You can practice it in a class or workshop, by listening to CDs or MP3s, or on guided imagery APPS.
Health Journeys
Guided imagery and meditation audios can help relieve stress, anxiety and problems with sleep. Some are designed to reduce addictive craving and the discomfort of withdrawal. Alcohol & Other Drugs, a guided meditation for recovery, was created by Belleruth Naparstek, a pioneer in guided imagery, with the help of recovery professionals and people in 12-step programs. Available on CD and MP3 as well as on their streaming App.
Research StudiesResearch Studies
This study looked at the effect of mental imagery on cocaine craving in people with cocaine use disorder. Self‐guided imagery with a positive theme reduced craving. Focusing attention on an image of a positive event and its meaning appears to be a good way to shift attention away from craving.
Natalie Lowry, John Marsden, Bethany Clydesdale, et al. Acute impact of self‐guided mental imagery on craving in cocaine use disorder: a mixed‐methods analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Addiction. January 6, 2021.
A group of smokers were taught guided imagery and encouraged to practice using a 20‐minute audiotaped exercise at least once a day. After 2 years, smoking abstinence rates were much higher for the guided imagery group (26% versus 12% in the group who did not practice guided imagery).
Wynd CA. Guided health imagery for smoking cessation and long-term abstinence. Journal of Nursing Scholarship. 37(3): 245-250, 2005.
- Acupuncture
- Animal/Pet Therapy
- Aromatherapy
- Biofeedback
- Creative Arts Therapy: Art, Dance, Drama, Music, Poetry
- Coloring Therapy
- Gardening
- Herbal Therapy
- Homeopathy
- Hypnosis
- Journaling
- Massage Therapy and Bodywork
- Meditation/Mindfulness
- Nature
- Nutrition
- QiGONG
- Yoga