Holistic approaches are part of many recovery programs.
They can help you heal and grow through all stages of recovery.
- QiGONG
Qigong is an ancient Chinese health practice for mind and body – often called a moving meditation. You can practice it during all stages of recovery to help balance your mood, think more clearly, stay focused and strengthen your body.
National Qigong Association (NQA)
Click on Find a Teacher to locate practitioners by state or zip code. Listings often include the practitioner's own web site with their teaching schedule, specialties, teacher certification level, and email. The web site also has an in-depth list of articles and information on Qigong.
Qigong Institute
Click on Teachers and Therapists for a directory of members organized by state and country with a short description of their practices. The site also includes recommended books and videos on Qigong, blogs, podcasts, research, newsletters, and more.
Research StudiesResearch Studies
In this Harvard study of 101 cocaine-dependent people in early recovery, half were given 4-6 sessions of Qigong over two weeks. Those who practiced Qigong had fewer symptoms of depression and fewer cravings.
Smelson, D, Chen KW, Ziedonis D, et al. A Pilot Study of Qigong for Reducing Cocaine Craving Early in Recovery. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 19(2): 97-101, 2013.
This study looked at 86 men in detox for heroin use disorder. The group practicing Qigong had less anxiety and a shorter period of withdrawal symptoms than the group receiving detox drugs alone.
Li M, Chen K, Mo Z. Use of qigong therapy in the detoxification of heroin addicts. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 8(1): 50-59, 2002.
- Acupuncture
- Animal/Pet Therapy
- Aromatherapy
- Biofeedback
- Creative Arts Therapy: Art, Dance, Drama, Music, Poetry
- Coloring Therapy
- Gardening
- Guided Imagery
- Herbal Therapy
- Homeopathy
- Hypnosis
- Journaling
- Massage Therapy and Bodywork
- Meditation/Mindfulness
- Nature
- Nutrition
- Yoga