Yoga Sequence For Addiction Recovery

When you have an addiction to something, you have a difficult time controlling the frequency or amount of consumption. Yoga, an ancient system of holistic health, might help in the process of addiction recovery. Consult your doctor before starting a yoga practice to treat your addiction.

Breathe

One aspect of yoga, pranayama, is the practice of breathing exercises. Being aware of your breathing before, during and after your yoga practice will help you stay present and connected to yourself, which can be helpful in addiction recovery. As you begin your yoga practice, try a breathing exercise called centering breath, recommended by physical therapist and author Judith Lasater. Take one long inhalation followed by one long exhalation. Take a few normal breaths and repeat the long inhale and exhale. Continue with this breathing pattern for up to five minutes.

Flow

Practicing a short daily yoga routine, such as a salutation, can help bring balance to your life while you're in recovery. Try moon salutation to calm feelings or irritability. Start in a standing position with your palms together at your chest. Raise your hands and arms overhead and stretch from side to side. Stop in the center and come to a standing squat. Straighten your legs and bring your arms out to the side. Perform triangle pose on each side and then do a forward being stretch. Do a runner's lunge on one side and turn your upper body to the center. Repeat on the other side. End in a yoga squat.

Restore

In restorative yoga, poses are held for longer periods and are done with the assistance of yoga props. These poses can be helpful in relieving stress associated with addiction recovery. Try lying with your legs up a wall and your back on the floor. Stay in this position for up to 15 minutes.

Meditation

Meditation is an important part of a yoga practice and can be helpful in addiction recovery. At the end of your yoga practice, incorporate at least five minutes of meditation. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes and simply watch your thoughts like clouds moving by in the sky. Don't attach to them and their stories, just watch.