Addiction has devastating effects on every part of a person’s life, including relationships and habits. Part of the challenge facing most addiction patients is that their recovery process is highly individual. As a result, healthcare facilities rely on holistic approaches to addiction treatment, and one of the main techniques is meditation.
According to Ishan Shivanand, Founder and leader of Yogi of Immortals (YOI), rewiring an addicted brain requires a comprehensive treatment process that heals both the body and mind. Ishan is recognized by many global leaders and educational societies for his contribution to yogic technique, spiritual science, innovative ancient mindfulness, and self-healing science. He shares five main meditation types for fighting addiction.
1. Mantra Meditation
Mantra means a word or phrase that you repeat continually during a meditation session. You can decide to say it loudly or silently to yourself. Ishan Shivanand points out that this meditation helps you achieve stillness and clarity by reducing stress, calming the mind, and providing deeper relaxation. He suggests choosing a mantra that you can say easily and comfortably that will allow you to focus.
2. Breathing Meditation
Breathing meditation allows you to relax and develop inner peace and calmness in the mind. You can do it while sitting in a comfortable position with your eyes closed. Ishan recommends practicing breathing in and out while concentrating on each breath. Breathe in deeply and exhale slowly. Stay focused on breathing and keep your body relaxed.
If your mind wanders from the present activity, bring it back by refocusing on your breathing. Pay attention to how the air comes in and out of your nostrils. Listen to the mellow sound made and feel your body move as you inhale and exhale. This mediation helps an addicted person to eliminate depression and feelings of sadness and loneliness on their path to recovery.
3. Moving Meditation
Sometimes meditation may involve moving in a specific design while engaging the mind. This meditation requires more concentration, so it’s critical to choose your space wisely, notes Ishan Shivanand. Find a peaceful place near a lake, forest, or park, and choose an activity you like doing, such as yoga or walking. Focus on the movements and how they make your body feel. Pay attention to all the information your senses receive in the environment, such as the smell of flowers, birds chirping, and crashing waves.
4. Mindfulness Meditation
This type of meditation also requires a quiet and peaceful setting while sitting in a comfortable position. Mindful meditation is all about focusing your attention on the present moment. Allow yourself to feel and think freely. The goal is to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment or engagement. It’s also about reinforcing awareness for addiction patients to prevent thoughts about substance abuse that could lead to relapse.
5. Guided Meditation
This meditation type involves a facilitator guiding you through a visualization exercise. Ishan Shivanand suggests sitting on a mat in a relaxed position with your eyes closed and taking deep breaths. Your facilitator will take you through various visualization scenarios that allow you to use your imagination to be in various states, such as happiness, growth, peace, and connection. This type of meditation helps addicted patients explore their inner feelings, reactions, and thoughts that will assist them in controlling their minds and cravings.