We all have someone we love or admire who we see drinking way too much, too often, and we worry about them right?
Those of us who experience it first hand with a loved often feel utterly powerless to intervene. And yet, this is not a patch on how helpless he/she feels as it’s toxic grip takes hold and takes over.
Addiction is a silent epidemic
Addiction is a silent epidemic that has been ravaging our society for decades. According to the Public Health England (PHE) statistics on alcohol and drug treatment in pre-pandemic England, in 2019-20, there were a total of 279,793 individuals in contact with alcohol and drug treatment services in England. It's going to be much higher now, right?
Of these individuals, 94,825 were in treatment for alcohol only, while 157,475 were in treatment for drug misuse. The remaining 27,493 individuals were in treatment for both drug and alcohol misuse. Whilst this is a big number, the amount of people in denial and not seeking help must be over 10x and is in the millions.
The majority of individuals in treatment for alcohol misuse are aged 45-64
The PHE statistics also show that the majority of individuals in treatment for drug misuse were aged between 25-44, while the majority of individuals in treatment for alcohol misuse were aged 45-64. Interesting, right?
The route of addiction is trauma
The route of addiction is trauma, whether that be deeply hiding in the subconscious from the past, or is used as a tool to mask difficulties, or even horrors, of the present.
As a breath coach and transformational yoga therapist, my work with individuals in recovery from addiction is truly a calling. Last weekend, I had the privilege of working with a another new group of individuals at an addiction center, and the impact I had on them was truly profound.
Addiction is a struggle that can consume a person's life
Addiction is a struggle that can consume a person's life, and those who are in recovery often face a multitude of challenges, including chronic stress, anxiety, and poor sleep. Through my breath coaching sessions, I am able to teach individuals how to master their nervous system, manage their stress and anxiety, and improve their overall well-being.
The power of the breath is truly remarkable for recovering alcoholics
The power of the breath is truly remarkable, and the impact it can have on a person's physical and mental health is incredible. By teaching breathing techniques, I am able to help individuals cope with triggers in their lives that may have led to their addiction, and provide them with the tools they need to overcome these challenges.
Today's session with the new group of individuals was a reminder of the impact that yoga therapy and simple breathing practices has on others. The awe and appreciation that they expressed for my teachings on the power of the breath, and how it can help them overcome addiction, was truly humbling. Seeing the joy and hope on their faces as they learned these techniques was incredibly rewarding.
The benefits of therapy, guidance, teaching, and advice cannot be overstated. By helping individuals manage and control their nervous system, chronic stress, anxiety, and related issues, therapists like me are providing them with the tools they need to cope with the challenges they face in their recovery journey.
Fast positive changes are possible with Breathwork
As a breath coach and transformational yoga therapist, I have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction. My work is not only transformative but also rewarding, as I am able to witness the positive changes that my clients experience firsthand.
There is hope, and It is truly inspiring to see individuals who were once consumed by addiction begin to regain control of their lives and find hope in their recovery journey. Through the power of the breath, I am able to help them take the first step towards a brighter future.
I am grateful for the opportunity to work with these vulnerable adults, and to witness the power of the breath as it transforms their lives. It is an honor to be a part of their recovery journey, and I am committed to continuing to provide them with the guidance, support, and tools they need to overcome their challenges and thrive in their lives.
Pauli