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Why Spirituality is Key to Addiction Recovery

12 step program near me for someone new to addiction recovery may be confused by the unfamiliar words and slogans. Some people, in particular, cringe when they hear for the first time that spirituality is considered a key to addiction recovery.

“There is no chemical solution to a spiritual problem.”

This slogan addresses the belief that addiction is a spiritual problem and is a core of AA 12 steps. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous says, “Its main objective [the Big Book] is to enable you to find a Power greater than yourself which will solve your problem.” Thus, in the 12 steps to recovery, finding a spiritual solution is necessary for long-lasting results. This begins once the critical care phase has passed. A holistic recovery approach takes into account all of a person’s physical, mental, and social conditions in the treatment of illness.

In order to help the person in addiction recovery create a balanced life, a 12-step program will treat the body, mind and spirit. The effect of the disease of addiction has left profound changes to the emotional and mental condition of the person in recovery. The consequences of these may be both seen and unseen traumas of all types (physical and mental).

Yoga is one holistic approach that treats both mind and body. It’s a physical activity but it consists of deep breathing, which not only improves lung capacity but helps to connect the mind with the body. Other holistic approaches include acupuncture and massage. Both release toxins and improve emotional states.

Some recovery centers offer yoga and other alternatives for residents after detox. The physical body is treated first with nutrition and exercise. Love, empathy, forgiveness, and deep understanding are provided to care for other needs. Spiritual counseling, not to be confused with religion, addresses the core desires of humanity to search for connection and purpose in life.