Stress and anxiety can be a trigger for relapse, which is why aiming to achieve a mindful, relaxed state is so important during recovery. In one study published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing, it was found that a 15-minute aromatherapy massage significantly reduced anxiety in study participants, who chose from different essential oils, including lavender,

Every time I re-awaken to the notion that self-care is an important part of managing the three-legged healing “stool” of denial-busting, mourning and tender re-parenting I seem drawn to immediate, quick fixes. These fixes are likely a leftover of the family’s immigrant legacy of learned helplessness, victimhood, ignorance, superstition and catastrophizing. My parents on both

One in 10 Americans over age 12 find themselves dealing with addiction. For the millions of people living with the chronic condition, an important part of the recovery process is not simply seeking treatment, but maintaining a healthy life post-addiction. Both for those who are newly sober and those who have been in recovery for years,

Anna David was, in every way, groomed for success. She grew up in an affluent community and came from a family that prioritized SAT scores, Harvard attendance and high-paying jobs. The problem was, she had low SAT scores, was rejected by Harvard and spent her early life feeling like the family’s great disappointment. Concluding that

In the United States alone, over 9,800 people live in self-run post-addiction treatment dwellings where they obtain jobs, pay utility bills, and learn to be responsible citizens. However, not everybody has the luxury to spend time in such a dwelling after treatment. After receiving treatment for some sort of addiction, whether in the hospital or in some

When interviewing experts on addiction and recovery, I like to ask my subjects about advice for people struggling with addiction. What are the best things you can do to stay on track with your recovery? I’ve gotten a wide variety of responses, but one theme that comes up over and over again is some version

Contrary to what most churches will tell you, Christian brains are just as susceptible to addictions as non-Christian brains. Becoming a Christian does not instantly give you a new brain, anymore than it gives you new legs, arms or any other body part. The brain is part of the physical body, NOT the spiritual soul.

  Addiction takes a lot out of a person, often leaving the body devoid of essential nutrients, even during recovery.   Studies have shown that a nutrient deficiency, coupled with alcohol or drugs, can severely disrupt the body and mind’s ability to function as required.  This can lead to multiple deficiencies and imbalances, malnutrition, and in extreme

What’s the difference between opiate dependency and addiction. Some say none. I say, there is a big difference! Having spent the better part of last year with chronic back and pelvic pain I have been on and off and on and off opiates. Only to be back on again. This time while I await surgery

This thing about not being perfect can be a soothing balm to a perfectionist such as myself when I get things blown out of proportion. Mostly my recovery is about “progress not perfection… but I sensed so much frustration around this concept when I first came into recovery. I call myself a perfectionist in recovery,