Spirituality is More than Faith
Ever since Bill W founded Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in 1935, spirituality has been a foundation of many alcohol and drug treatment programs. Alcohol and drug treatment programs that incorporate spiritual development – whether that means simple belief in a greater power, reconnecting to one’s faith of origin, or an exploration of a new faith – are generally more successful in helping patients gain the tools to get sober and stay sober.
Those who are addicted disconnect from life and often isolate themselves from friends and family. Tapping into the power of spirituality can help you find your way back to your true self and your infinite potential. If you’re an addict in recovery, there are several ways to use spirituality in your efforts to become more present with yourself and your environment. They include:
1. Pray and/or Meditate Daily
Carve out a quiet time each day to calm your mind and reflect on what is important to you. By learning to still your thoughts, tap into a greater power, and listen to the world mindfully, you can help alleviate stress and focus on your recovery.
2. Socialize
Healthy socialization revitalizes your spirit.Whether that’s going to a yoga class, joining a book group or attending your place of worship, developing positive relationships can help improve your sense of self and expand your support networks.
3. Learn something new
Engage your brain in healthy activity by finding out more about this beautiful world we’re in. This can be through a meditation class, a Bible study group, or even a science lecture. Expanding your mind and being open to new ideas aids your recovery.
4. Be good to yourself
Alcohol and drug addiction are self-destructive behaviors. Reverse that by honoring your unique spirit. Take 15 minutes for yourself, and regularly plan a day alone to do just what you want. Indulge in a movie, dance to your favorite song, pick flowers, play a video game, and whatever else that will grow your worthy spirit.
5. Exercise
It’s all about mind, body and spirit. Taking care of your physical health is an important component of being able to connect to your spirituality. It doesn’t have to be rigorous. Yoga, walking, rock-climbing,and swimming are a few relaxing ways to excercise.
6. Do something fun
Recovery is hard work ,but that doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun in life. What makes you happy? Going to a concert, a sporting event or the museum? Cooking a great meal or hiking the local trails? Whatever it is, go do it.
7. Volunteer
Giving of your time and special gifts to others who are more needy simply feels good. Unfortunately, it’s a fact that there will always be someone who is in a worse situation than you are. By volunteering you can help share those burdens as well as many of life’s blessings.
Embracing spirituality in an alcohol and drug treatment program can help give your life new meaning, help you connect with others and keep you on the path to sobriety. Among their variety of drug rehab programs, Bradford Health offers a faith based rehab program called Steps of Faith.