-
Recovery from Substance Use Disorders (SUDs)
It’s becoming a trend. Yoga is being studied by doctors and scientists to help people recover from everything from surgical pain to diabetes. There are lots of studies that confirm the positive effects of yoga on the body, and the list includes use disorders for everything from alcohol and drugs to food. If you already have a regular yoga practice, you may be aware of some of the life affirming changes that your practice can create, like improved strength, flexibility and energy. But did you know that a regular practice that includes meditation and breathing practices can reduce your cravings for food, alcohol, drugs, cigarettes and most anything else that a person might use to “feel better?” How Does This Work?First, endorphins created during asana (movement) practice works within the body to soothe achey muscles, irritable minds, stress and feelings of loneliness. The increased oxygen in the blood stream helps to create feelings of calm and wellness. Specific yoga asana can also help flush toxic chemicals from the blood stream created during traumatic events and stressful situations, which are the root for all use disorders. And that’s just the asana! If your practice includes breath practices (pranayama) and meditation there…