Meditation and prayer which is talked about within the twelve step community is part of recovery. It is not uncommon for recovering addicts to feel slightly uncomfortable with the concept. However, many who are in long term abstinence have become adept at meditation. It is a way in which they can find peace and quiet within themselves giving them a chance to reflect on their lives. The benefits of meditation can be endless.
Mindfulness
One way in which meditation can be incorporated into daily western life is by practising mindfulness on a regular, consistent basis. This can be for as few as 10 minutes at first, once or twice a day. Most of those who have become comfortable with this practice know the benefits of self-awareness and living in their own skin. This is a vital piece of becoming emotionally present to oneself. Many will draw back from this practice because it is uncomfortable to sit quietly alone without distraction or noise.
They have practiced the art of “checking out” with substances over a period of many years and do not care for the idea of “checking in”; because it may be overwhelming emotionally to feel everything at once. Addicts are so used to drowning out all emotions and thoughts with drugs and alcohol that they are afraid to listen. This is why meditation can be used to really benefit long term abstinence, as it will overcome this obstacle. Therefore it is important that meditation is widely available to all recovering addicts.
Stressful situations
The same stresses exist amongst all countries, cultures, such as birth, death, marriage and divorce, to say the least. Recovering addicts do not have all of the emotional stability that is required. From dealing with stressful situations without a great deal of help. While it is important for them to maintain their involvement in 12-step support groups. Working with sponsors and other 12-step advisers and friends, maintaining a spiritual connection is tough. When you are not aware of how you are feeling about any of this activity and its inherent stress. Meditation can be the safe haven for most addicts. When they walk through the fear that bars them entrance into the quietude and serenity that’s found within them.
Taking it seriously
One of the greatest challenges with meditation is to take it seriously and find the right space and time in which we can practice. It does not matter how busy we think we are. By meditating we are able to truly tap into our inner knowledge of personal guidance. This is an important part of the addiction recovery process. It will guide us to know our own feelings and when something is either right or wrong for us at this time. We are past masters at self-deception. This is the best and easiest way to find the answers we seek for setting our own course. Therefore attempting to carry out meditation is very worth it for recovering addicts to find peace and insight in order to sustain their sobriety.
Please call the Haynes Clinic on 01462 851414
