Biography
Biography: Anouk Prop
Abstract
Nowadays there are many programs available to treat addiction and substance abuse. An increasing number is focusing on a more holistic approach, encompassing a variety of methods and tools to help achieve, maintain, and enhance recovery. Yoga as a complementary health practice is increasingly being used in substance abuse treatment programs and throughout recovery to help prevent relapse, reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and provide a healthy outlet to cope with potential triggers and daily life stressors. Yoga has been used for thousands of years as a means of promoting physical, mental and spiritual health and is seen as a very beneficial coping tool in recovery. The physical benefits support increasing strength, flexibility and dealing with withdrawal pains. Breathing exercises, gentle motions and a mindfulness-based approach reduces stress, cravings and treats any psychological distress or trauma. The improved circulation lowers blood pressure and increases oxygen flow to the brain that has a mood altering effect on the accompanying depression in recovery. Self-awareness and self-discipline is enhanced through the practice of yoga and its full on exposure therapy nature. Moreover, the origins of yoga are believed to have existed before many other belief systems were born, which provides a solid foundation for a connection with a higher power that has proven to be the crucial step in 12 step recovery programs. In addition, mindfulness based yoga focuses on the principles of acceptance and compassion that are key principles in recovery. In this session, best practices methods of mindfulness-based yoga as a tool in recovery are demonstrated in combination with an overview of its benefits and implications for practice.