What is Mindfulness Meditation?
Mindfulness Meditation is growing in popularity. There is a huge benefit for those in addiction treatment programs. It supports the mental aspect of battling the urge to relapse back to old addiction habits. Meditation transports one headspace into a present state and to be mindful of each thought, action, or breath. After just a week or so of day-to-day practice, patients begin experiencing calmer thinking, less attachment to emotional ups and downs, less power behind cravings, gratitude, and an increased ability to relax and stay calm when needed. Mindfulness Meditation accompanied with a Recovery program is a powerful accelerator of the Recovery process.
Meditation has been found to lower the levels of the stress hormone Cortisol, increase interleukin levels which enhances the immune system, and streamlines the body’s ability to cleanse itself of chemical toxins. Less toxins means cleaner neurotransmitter receptors meaning less mood swings.
Research on Mindfulness Meditation indicates that qualities we once thought immutable that form temperament and character can actually be altered significantly. The more one practices mindfulness meditation, the thicker the brain becomes in the mid-prefrontal cortex and in the mid-insular region of the brain. Changing your thought processes actually causes changes in the brain. By retraining the mind through a consistent mindfulness practice, we create new neural networks. We rewire the brain. And when the brain changes, all else changes accordingly.
People who’ve practiced meditation for years are adept at quickly achieving a state of concentration and mindful awareness, newcomers who engage in Mindfulness Meditation as little as four hours a week can achieve and sustain a state of mindfulness that leads to a less judgmental deeper self-awareness, as well as better concentration and some good beginnings in emotional stability.
At 7 Summit Pathways, our Mindful Meditation coach practices with our patients three to four times per week.
As the Clinical Director at 7 Summit Pathways, Dylan brings a wealth of expertise, compassion, and commitment to the forefront of addiction recovery. With a deep-rooted passion for helping individuals overcome the challenges of substance abuse, he plays a pivotal role in guiding clients toward lasting sobriety and wellness. Dylan holds his credentials in mental health counseling and has amassed extensive experience in addiction treatment over his career. He is dedicated to staying at the forefront of evidence-based practices, continuously refining his approach to meet the evolving needs of clients. As the Clinical Director, Dylan oversees all aspects of the treatment process, ensuring that each client receives personalized care tailored to their unique circumstances. He leads a team of skilled clinicians and support staff, fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and encouragement within the facility. With a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of addiction and co-occurring disorders, Dylan provides individual and group therapy sessions, equipping clients with the tools and strategies they need to navigate the challenges of recovery successfully. He also collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals and community organizations to facilitate a holistic approach to treatment.