Tag: addictions

addictions, Miami holistic health coach, Miami psychologist, mindfulness, self sabotage

Learn how to move past self-sabotaging behavior . . .

You may be working to lose weight or improve your health because you’ve faced a life threatening disease, quit drinking alcohol after years of struggling to be sober or find the romantic partner who you’ve dreamed about your entire life. You have made great strides in losing weight having lost 50 lbs. and regained your health and vitality, been sober for nearly a year or finally gathered up the courage to get out to a social venue to meet your dream partner. Just when you think you’re on your way to reaching your goals, you reach for those 2 extra fudge brownies, martini cocktail or ignore the call from the person who you had a great time with and who expressed interest in you after your night out on the town. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Self-sabotage behavior frequently occurs when you ARE making significant progress and are aligned with your life’s deepest desires. What may seem like regression or being “stuck” in a pattern of behavior that does not serve you, actually is a mechanism of self-protection. As you work on your goals and face the unfamiliar (e.g., getting attention from interested romantic suitors, refusing the cocktail from a friend you are used to spending time with, saying to no to the host who baked the brownies and is a good colleague at work ), you may experience discomfort, feel “unworthy” and experience guilt. So rather than allow these experiences, you engage in behaviors that are familiar and comfortable.

In order to move past your self-sabotage behavior patterns, you need to recognize that it is occurring because you’ve confronted and overcome similar situations in your past. Once you understand that you are not “stuck” and that your behavior is your mind’s way of keeping you safe, it is important that you embrace your uncomfortable feelings or thoughts without self-judgment. By learning to mindfully allow your discomfort and adopting an attitude of curiosity and self-compassion, you will be able to more effectively respond to the new and uncomcoforatble situations that will invariable show up because you are now a different person.

Once you have embraced being curious, reflect on what you need in order to feel safe and be true in your life in order to reach your goals. Very often, your life structure or fear of change keeps you from making bigger changes in your life (e.g., addressing your work colleagues who know that you are trying to lose weight, finding new friends to socialize with who do not drink alcohol, learning to first love yourself) that you need to lose those last 10 lbs., celebrate your sobriety or be with your dream partner.

To your health and success,

Dr. Sandoval

To learn more about how working with a psychologist and holistic health coach can help you to enhance your health and well being, call or email Dr. Sandoval to schedule a free consultation.

The information, published and/or made available through the www.drjosesandoval.com website, is not intended to replace the services of a physician, nor does it constitute a physician-patient relationship. This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use the information in this post for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician in all matters relating to your health, particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on the reader’s part in response to the information provided in this blog is at the reader’s discretion.

The Benefits of Acceptance-Based Approaches in Addiction Recovery

In Psychology and Wellness

Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and healing as we explore the benefits of acceptance-based approaches in addiction recovery. In addiction recovery, acceptance-based approaches offer a unique and powerful path for individuals seeking transformation. By embracing mindfulness, self-compassion, and the capacity to move past self-sabotaging behavior, these approaches pave the way to lasting recovery. In this blog post, we will delve into the many benefits of acceptance-based approaches, empowering individuals to find strength, resilience, and freedom on their path to healing.

Types of Acceptance-Based Approaches Used in Addiction Recovery

No. 1 Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention

Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention helps you develop the capacity to bring non-judgmental awareness to your thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. Individuals can observe cravings, triggers, and urges without acting on them by cultivating present-moment awareness.

This approach enhances self-regulation and empowers you to make conscious choices rather than reacting impulsively. It also helps you recognize the impermanent nature of cravings. That will allow you to ride out the waves without being swept away. And the good news is you can achieve all this with simple mindfulness practices.

No. 2 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and emotions rather than avoiding or suppressing them. This approach teaches you to embrace the full range of human experiences, including pain and discomfort, without resorting to substance abuse.

Practicing acceptance can create psychological distance from your cravings and triggers. As a result, you’ll reduce their grip on your actions. ACT also helps you identify your values and commit to a meaningful life. That will naturally lessen the pull of addiction.

No. 3 Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) combines acceptance and change-based strategies to address addiction. This approach emphasizes building distress tolerance skills, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

By accepting the present moment and developing healthy coping strategies, you can reduce impulsive behaviors and replace them with more adaptive alternatives. At the same time, DBT helps you build a support network and enhance your interpersonal relationships. These things are vital for a sustainable recovery.

The Benefits of Acceptance-Based Approaches in Addiction Recovery

No. 1 Reducing Shame and Self-Stigma

One of the most significant benefits of acceptance-based approaches in addiction recovery is their ability to reduce shame and self-stigma. Addiction often brings a sense of guilt, embarrassment, and self-blame.

However, by fostering self-compassion and self-acceptance, these approaches allow you to break free from the cycle of negative self-judgment. Acceptance-based approaches acknowledge that addiction is a complex issue and treat individuals with kindness and understanding. That will enable you to focus on healing rather than dwelling on past mistakes.

No. 2 Developing Emotional Resilience

The experts in addiction treatment from harmonyridgerecovery.com advise you to try acceptance-based approaches, as they will equip you with tools to manage difficult emotions without resorting to substances.

Practicing mindfulness and acceptance allows you to observe your emotions without judgment. As such, you’ll reduce the urge to numb or escape through addiction. That fosters emotional resilience and empowers you to face challenges head-on without turning to harmful coping mechanisms. By cultivating emotional resilience, you can navigate the ups and downs of recovery with greater strength and stability.

No. 3 Cultivating Self-Awareness

These approaches help you become more aware of your triggers, cravings, and behavior patterns through mindfulness and self-reflection. Additionally, that heightened self-awareness enables you to identify potential relapse warning signs and take proactive steps to prevent a full-blown relapse.

Furthermore, by cultivating self-awareness, you better understand your values and goals. As a result, that will reinforce your motivation for recovery. You can make conscious choices aligned with your values and aspirations through self-awareness. That will strengthen your commitment to a life free from addiction.

No. 4 Enhancing Coping Skills

Acceptance-based approaches provide you with effective coping strategies to navigate challenging situations. By learning to accept discomfort and respond with mindfulness, you can find healthier alternatives to cope with stress, pain, and triggers. These alternatives can also help you nourish your body and mind.

Moreover, you’ll learn how to communicate assertively, manage conflicts, and seek support when needed. Eventually, that will lead to better problem-solving and relationship-building skills. That repertoire of healthy coping skills will equip you to handle the inevitable stressors and temptations that will arise during recovery.

No. 5 Sustaining Long-Term Recovery

The emphasis on acceptance and self-compassion in these approaches promotes long-term recovery. Traditional approaches may reinforce a sense of failure and shame when individuals experience setbacks or relapses. In contrast, acceptance-based approaches recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the recovery journey.

You can approach recovery with a growth mindset by acknowledging and accepting the challenges that will arise. That reduces the risk of becoming discouraged by setbacks. Furthermore, that enables you to bounce back stronger, persisting in your pursuit of lasting sobriety.

How can you incorporate these approaches into your recovery?

One common avenue is through addiction treatment centers and rehabilitation facilities, where therapists and counselors incorporate these approaches into their treatment programs.

Additionally, many therapists and mental health professionals offer individual counseling sessions focusing on acceptance-based approaches.

Books, workshops, and support groups centered around mindfulness, acceptance, and self-compassion can serve as valuable sources for learning and implementing these approaches.

Explore and find the resources that resonate with your needs and preferences. That will ensure a holistic and personalized approach to your recovery.

Final thoughts

As you’ve seen, acceptance-based approaches in addiction recovery offer a transformative approach to overcoming addiction. By embracing mindfulness, acceptance, and self-compassion, you can experience profound benefits on your journey to recovery. These approaches provide invaluable tools for reducing shame, developing emotional resilience, cultivating self-awareness, enhancing coping skills, and sustaining long-term recovery. If you or someone you know is on the path to recovery, consider exploring these approaches as a powerful and effective way to achieve lasting sobriety. Remember, every step towards self-acceptance and growth brings you closer to a life of freedom, fulfillment, and authentic well-being.

Guest Article written by Shirley W. Evans

Things to Expect from Your First Cupping Therapy Session

In Psychology and Wellness

Throughout history and all over the globe, people have turned to cupping therapy as a means of healing. Nowadays, thanks to high-profile athletes and health-conscious celebrities, it’s experiencing a renaissance in the United States. However, because people’s shoulders and backs may get red, round markings (not bruises!) from cupping, many individuals are curious about the results and want to know more about the experience. That’s why we’ve gathered information on what you can expect from your first cupping therapy session.

What is cupping, and what to expect from your first therapy session?

During cupping, cups (usually glass or plastic) are used to exert suction to specific spots on the body. As the skin is drawn up into the cup, the suction will feel tight at first (but not painful). The uncomfortable feeling will disappear as soon as the therapist moves on to the next cup. The suction will be used repeatedly while the therapist positions the cups on your back, shoulders, abdomen, etc., while constantly checking if you’re comfortable.

Your body will get used to the sensation of the cups rather quickly. It’s improbable that you’ll feel every cup that’s being set. Usually, the first time you attempt cupping, therapists use fewer cups for gentler treatment. Depending on your condition, your therapist may leave the cups in place for five to twenty minutes.

When it’s time to remove the cups, your therapist will stop applying pressure to the cup and lay it aside. Most people report a sense of relief upon letting off steam or letting go of some tension in their bodies. Sometimes, your therapist may apply a light lotion or oil before use to allow the cups to move easily across the skin.

What is the purpose of cupping?

The goal of cupping can be either physical or emotional. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, cupping functions similarly to how acupuncture patients may experience a catharsis or “release” when the needles make contact with a specific location. We have nerves that exit our spinal column and connect to every organ, and therapists stimulate the base of these nerve connections on the back using cups.

Another purpose of cupping is to get the body to mend itself by getting fluids moving about. Many experts claim that getting the circulation moving in the body is inherently therapeutic. Getting things moved helps with feelings of “stuck-ness,” both emotionally and physically, because blood has the power to retain our emotions, too.

What do suction cups do?

When your therapist places cups on your skin, they will lift and loosen the connective tissues underneath it. In return, this will stimulate the blood and lymph flow to the skin and muscles. The damaged area receives oxygenated blood and lymph fluid thanks to the directed blood flow. This allows the lymphatic system to remove metabolic byproducts and other unwanted substances from the body, helping the body eliminate toxins more efficiently. It can even help treat different conditions or at least help relieve the symptoms.

Will the red marks disappear quickly?

Remember that the cup markings, which are circular and red, are NOT bruises. Also, it’s highly unusual for one to cause pain. Bruises form when capillaries in the damaged area rupture due to impact trauma. On the other hand, when cupping is performed correctly, you should not experience any compression or impact stress.

Your skin and muscles will be lifted and tightened rather than compressed and pushed. The red marks form because the blood is drawn to a specific location. The more sluggish fluids (toxins, blood, lymph) were dug up during treatment, the darker the mark. In most cases, the red round marks will disappear after a few days.

What to expect from post-cupping care?

After your cupping therapy session, you can expect your therapist to provide you with more in-depth guidance for continuing your recovery at home. However, here are the main things you should focus on:

Keep yourself hydrated at all times! Hydrate thoroughly so your lymphatic system can remove waste products from your body.
Wait at least a few hours before taking a shower following cupping.
Keep the treated areas warm and covered.
Avoid drinking alcohol.
The day after your treatment, you may feel drained or perhaps sick with a fever or chills. To some extent, this is to be expected. This is your body eliminating the toxins generated during the cupping process. Relax, sleep in, and treat yourself well. That’s what your body needs.

Benefits of cupping

While preliminary evidence supports cupping’s efficacy, a significant barrier to more in-depth investigation is how difficult it is to conduct a double-blind trial. Yet, many studies have shown that cupping can help with discomforts. One study from 2016 indicated that after just one session of cupping therapy, patients had a 50% reduction in their chronic neck and shoulder discomfort.

Nowadays, cupping is a very popular way to relieve pain and help with various medical conditions as it is very successful in lowering both physical and mental stress. It has even been reported that cupping therapy can be a powerful ally in drug and alcohol addiction recovery. Since it is an excellent way to help the body get rid of toxins, it significantly accelerates the lengthy and grueling process of healing. So, if you happen to notice the warning signs of addiction in yourself or your loved ones, don’t ignore them and give this ancient treatment a chance.

Final thoughts

We hope our article helped you understand what cupping is, how it can help you, and what you can expect from your first therapy session. As you can see, it comes with many benefits, and in addition to helping you treat different medical conditions, it also leaves you feeling relaxed and refreshed. So, wait no more; book your cupping therapy session, and we guarantee it will quickly become your routine.

Guest article written by Amy Baker