Overcoming substance abuse can be a long road, full of challenges for you and your loved ones. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 19.7 million American adults fought with a substance use disorder in 2017.
It is not easy to stop using drugs or alcohol alone, and you may find yourself in need of help. You may find some relief from doctor-prescribed medicines which help reduce cravings. However, there are more natural ways to find help without unwanted side effects.
Your primary method of recovery should be at a rehab center close to home (i.e. if you’re in Canada or the northeastern US, you should look for alcohol rehab in Toronto). But here are three natural ways to help you through addiction rehab and towards a healthier lifestyle.
Hemp oil
One natural approach can be found in CBD oil extraction from hemp. Despite its connection to marijuana, the hallucinogen component — THC — isn’t present in these products. Instead, you’re left with just the CBD oil.
For those who have dealt with opioid addictions, CBD hemp oil can fight withdrawal symptoms such as pain, drug cravings, and insomnia. Although you should still enlist the assistance of a doctor when stopping substance use, since it can be dangerous and painful.
Naturally coming off of drugs can cause cold-like symptoms such as runny nose and body aches, in addition to sleeplessness and agitation. Hemp has a calming effect which can be beneficial during withdrawal periods. Also known for its relaxing properties, hemp oil can be used for anxiety and relief from depression.
As your body is acclimating, a proper diet of healthy foods and water can help give you much-needed energy. Hemp can be added to food for extra protein and healthy fats help reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes. Hemp is often referred to as a superfood, meaning it contains a lot of good things such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which benefit your overall well-being.
Yoga
Yoga has been around for thousands of years and combines a series of movements (or asanas) to achieve a healthy body and mind. There are many different varieties of yoga such as Hatha, Astanga, and Bikram. It helps tone and strengthen every muscle in your body, using just your body.
Struggling with addiction can interfere with your entire life, but yoga can help bring some focus back into it. Breathing techniques taught by your teacher will help you learn to slow your breath, which lowers your heart rate and reduces stress and anxiety.
This can help you rest and sleep easier during difficult nights on the road to recovery. Meditation, in addition to yoga, lets you properly center your mind and body.
Journaling
Keeping a journal or diary can help you reflect on challenging situations that occurred and vent your feelings positively.
A “gratitude journal” is a simple way to write down the things you are most appreciative about every day. It can be large milestones or small ones, like waking up after a good night’s sleep. Tracking your goals can encourage you to find something to work toward, like getting a new job or your 30-day coin. Expressing yourself in your own words can be freeing.
On top of that, a CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) program can help you recognize the triggers that would lead you to abuse drugs or alcohol. Together, you and your therapist can create a plan to find other ways of dealing with your issues.
