Some of many alternative methods of addiction treatment include:
- Animal Assisted Therapy – Therapist assisted interactions with horses or dogs.
- Acupuncture - Acupuncture is one the most widely offered alternative therapies. Acupuncture advocates say that the ancient Chinese technique can ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce drug and alcohol cravings. Acupuncture as addiction treatment is widely offered in the criminal justice system.
- Sweat Lodge Therapy – Addiction recovery is a holistic process that includes a spiritual element. Native American sweat lodge ceremonies tap into this spiritual side and offer those in recovery a powerful, rebirthing experience.
- Yoga
– Studies have shown that yoga can work as well as counseling when offered
in an addiction treatment program. Yoga enhances mindfulness, physical
well being and a mind-body connection. 1
- Meditation – Meditation can increase mindfulness (which can guard against relapse) and it can also promote lasting feelings of peace. Since the way we handle life stresses impacts on our ability to resist temptation, learning effective ways to manage our moods is of real benefit.
- References
-
- 1. Altern Ther Health Med. 1997 Jul;3(4):57-66. Comparing Hatha yoga with dynamic group psychotherapy for enhancing methadone maintenance treatment: a randomized clinical trial.
page last update Aug 05, 2010
