Meditation is an ancient practice that helps people center themselves and achieve an inner peace. Even people who were initially skeptics of the practice have changed their minds after trying it for themselves. In fact, we now know there are many scientifically validated reasons meditation is so effective.
When someone meditates, he or she eventually learns to reshape the way the brain works by changing thought patterns. This phenomenon is due to neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain’s astounding ability to permanently change its structure and function through repeated thought and activity.
What Is Meditation?
The practice of meditation involves sitting in a quiet place and stilling the mind by concentrating on deep breathing. If thoughts or ideas intrude on your practice, accept them, welcome them and move on to focusing on your breath.
There’s no set time for how long a meditation session should last. Though you may initially start out small, with just a minute or two of practice, you will be able to gradually increase the length of your meditation sessions as it becomes feeling more natural to you. If you are just starting a meditation routine, it can help to set aside the same time each day to do so.
If you practice daily, you will soon find yourself feeling calmer and even perhaps more able to process strong emotions. Your goal will be to learn how to detach from negative behaviors and soothe yourself without falling back on substance abuse.
How Meditation Helps in Recovery
Meditation has played a key role in many people’s recovery journey. When used in conjunction with traditional addiction treatment practices, it offers a powerful additional support mechanism for addicts in recovery.
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of a regular meditation regimen is that those undergoing treatment can continue their practice even after they have completed their initial recovery period. Therefore, a well-developed meditation and mindfulness practice is a tool people can use to stay sober and mentally strong for the rest of their lives.
Seek the Help You Need at New Found Life
New Found Life is a nationally accredited treatment center for adult men and women who wish to enter the recovery process and return to a healthy, sober lifestyle. If you are ready to begin to break free of the cycle of addiction for yourself, or to help a loved one do so, contact our Long Beach, CA, treatment center today.