Our sense of smell can evoke pleasant memories or cause instant revulsion. Just as certain smells can trigger nausea in pregnant women, the smell of certain drugs can contribute to relapse for an addict in recovery. Scents can also be used to promote health and well being in recovery by helping recovering addicts balance their emotions.
One of the best things people in recovery can do to promote relaxation and reduce stress is to practice aromatherapy, which is the practice of using plant based materials to create essential oils. These are then in turn used to naturally alter a person’s mood, sense of well being, or to improve a number of different health issues. Essential oils have healing properties that, when used correctly, can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety that addicts often experience in recovery.

Science of Smelling

The olfactory senses are part of the body’s limbic system, which is responsible for memory, emotions, and behavior. When a scent is inhaled, messages are sent to parts of the brain that are a part of the limbic system and chemicals that have direct effects on mood are released such as serotonin. The limbic system is also responsible for feeling pleasure, and the “reward path” in the brain is also a part of the limbic system. It is this same system that is responsible for the “high” that people feel when abusing drugs. Individuals in recovery can use aromatherapy as a natural way to activate the same parts of their brains that were activated by drug use in order to relieve some of the unpleasant emotional feelings experienced in recovery.

Breathe Deeply

Some of the easiest ways to use essential oils and get the maximum benefit from their scents is through direct inhalation or diffusion. Essential oils can be diffused into the air in a variety of ways.

• the oils can be absorbed on a tissue and placed in a pillowcase to aid in restful sleep p
• placed in an oil burner and gently warmed by a tea light candle to release the scent into the air
• when combined with a carrier oil, can even be worn on or massaged into the body

Some of the most common essential oils that are used to relieve anxiety and depression include chamomile, rose, sandalwood, lavender, bergamot, clary sage, neroli, peppermint, basil, geranium, juniper, lemongrass, ylang ylang, and any kind of oil derived from citrus fruit. Many people also find that the use of these oils can enhance other aspects of recovery, including meditation practices, and purifying the body and living spaces.

As with all kinds of treatments, the use of essential oils must be done with caution. Certain oils can cause skin irritation or even lead to a pronounced sensitivity and allergic reactions. Before using any kind of essential oils, it is important to research how to use them safely and to note the cautions associated with each kind of oil.

Kelly McClanahan has an MSW in clinical social work, with a specialization in substance abuse treatment. Having worked in this field for over 20 years, she is currently working on her certification as an addictions’ counselor.

Holistic Rehab Facilities Offer an Alternative Approach

For many years, the twelve-step protocol was the primary method for treating drug and alcohol addictions. First popularized in the 1930s, the twelve-step method derived from a religious movement called The Oxford Group. Belief in a Higher Power is a primary tenet of the Twelve Steps. Although the term can be very loosely defined, this requirement has been a stumbling block for many who need help fighting their addictions.

In recent years, a new paradigm for treating addiction has been gaining adherents. Holistic rehab facilities have sprung up across the nation and around the world. The holistic approach is based on the concept that the entire person must be treated as an entity, including mind, body and spirit. Holistic medicine in all its aspects stresses that the individual must take responsibility for his or her well being.

The holistic approach to rehabilitation, springing as it does from alternative medicine, uses a combination of traditional and non-traditional methods. In addition to individual, group and family counseling sessions, and treatment with medication where appropriate (such as during detox), holistic rehab facilities may include in their regimen such elements as nutritional counseling, yoga, biofeedback, self-hypnotism, Pilates, reiki massage, meditation, tai chi and acupuncture. Vitamins, enzymes, probiotics and other nutritional supplements may also be provided, as well as physical exercise through gym facilities, swimming, hiking or sports.

Where to Find Holistic Rehab Facilities

At SoberRecovery.com, we have a comprehensive listing of twelve-step, holistic and other types of recovery resources. Use the filter on our home page under “Special Focus Programs” to find a listing of facilities that specialize in holistic treatment.

Holistic Addiction Treatment Offers a Different Approach

For many decades, the twelve-step protocol was the primary approach to treating substance abuse of all sorts. It has had a long history of success, but in recent years a new type of treatment has shown strong growth. Holistic addiction treatment, like other types of holistic health practices, is based on the belief that treating only one aspect of a person’s health is incomplete and counterproductive. In holistic addiction treatment, factors such as nutrition, body work and relaxation techniques are added to more mainstream factors in order to treat the person as a whole, rather than just treating the addiction.

Approaches to Holistic Addiction Treatment

Individual therapy, along with group and family therapy, is still the primary focus of the holistic approach to substance abuse. To this base, however, are added other modes of treatment that have been shown to be highly effective.

Fitness activities, such as tai-chi, yoga, weightlifting and even karate help bring the body back to health. Training in meditation techniques helps the addict learn to deal with stress, often a major factor in substance abuse, and can lead to a deeper sense of spirituality, which can be a source of strength. Self-hypnosis is also an effective stress reliever, and can help the client gain a new belief in him- or herself as a person free of addictions. Nutritional therapy aids in rebuilding the body damaged by drugs or alcohol; a healthy body is a stepping stone to sobriety.

More technical approaches such as biofeedback and acupuncture are also found in holistic treatment centers. While these are useful techniques for all addictions, they may be especially appropriate for those who have become addicted to prescription drugs for the relief of pain.