5 Ways to Practice Mindfulness as Part of your Recovery
The uncertainty and unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic have made it an understandably anxious and difficult time for those that are in recovery from substance abuse disorder. While there is no universal solution, the practice of mindfulness meditation has shown to trigger a positive response from some of those in recovery. Mindfulness entails actively focusing on the current moment and calming your mind and body to help slow down your thoughts. With so much going on, the calmness that it brings makes it an ideal practice for those in recovery. Below are five ways to practice mindfulness as part of your recovery.
Think About Your Feelings
Life can move at a blistering pace and it can be difficult to process it all. With so much happening, it can be easy to forget to pay attention to your feelings and thoughts. Practice mindfulness by taking in what’s occurring around you and giving attention to your feelings. Think about how you’re processing each moment. When things feel overwhelming and chaotic, this can help add some semblance of control.
Practice Acceptance
Recovery can be an emotional process filled with its highs and lows. It’s important to never let your emotions overflow and get the best of you. Instead, it’s best to approach things with a neutral and objective mindset and your emotions at an even-keeled level. Mindful acceptance teaches you to accept that there will be lows, but never to be swept up in emotion because of it.
Avoid Judging Yourself
Mindfulness allows you to express your feelings without judgment. It’s understandable to have urges to use once more or to feel guilt over past behavior. When these feelings arise, avoid negatively judging yourself. It’s important that you give yourself the respect and understanding that you would to a loved one or someone close to you.
Take a Moment to Breathe
Although you can’t always control what happens around you, you do have control over how you react to it. When negative thoughts begin to arise, take a step back and give yourself a chance to simply breathe. Situate yourself somewhere, close your eyes and take deep breaths. For an entire minute, completely focus on your breathing and nothing else. This can have a calming effect that can reduce certain urges and emotions.
Walking Meditation
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be a stationary practice. You can practice mindfulness by taking a short walk. Whether it’s in the middle of the day, or one of the first things you do in the morning, going on a walk can be a way for you to quietly meditate. When you’re on your walk, don’t be too brisk with your pace. Instead, slow your walk and think about each step you take. Be cognizant of all of your movements and everything that you’re feeling during the moment.
Going through recovery in a difficult time like this can be a challenging experience. This makes receiving proper guidance and support more necessary than ever before. At Twin Town Treatment Centers, we operate six facilities throughout the Los Angeles and Orange County area, including one in Laguna Hills, where our certified team strives to provide an environment where those on their journey toward recovery can receive such support. Get in touch with us by calling us at (866) 594-8844 or filling out our online form to get started today. Our team of professionals will provide you with a no-cost interview and assessment for alcohol and drug issues.
