When people seek rehab for addiction, most of them look for traditional programs. However, there’s more to rehab than just traditional services. In fact, alternative treatment methods are among the most popular in the country. Despite that, not everyone understands what holistic therapy is. 
Red Oak Recovery® understands the value of holistic therapy when used in tandem with standard treatment protocols. Contact us at 866.457.7590 to learn more about the types of holistic therapy treatment we offer and how we can help.
What Is Holistic Therapy?
In order to answer this question, people have to understand the word “holistic.” In short, this word comes from the Greek word “holos,” which stands for “whole.” In fact, holistic therapy refers to treatment that treats the whole body, including the mind and soul.
Despite this difference between traditional and holistic therapy, the goal remains the same. Both of these treatment styles aim to help people overcome addiction and practice relapse prevention.
However, knowing the holistic definition is just half the battle. There’s a lot more to learn about holistic therapy than just its meaning.
Holistic Therapy or Traditional Therapy: Which Is Better?
Knowing what holistic therapy is can leave some people wondering if it’s better than traditional counseling. In truth, each person responds differently to holistic services. Determining if they’re better than traditional counseling simply depends on the individual.
However, most experts agree that holistic and traditional therapies work best together. For that reason, most rehab centers incorporate traditional therapies and holistic healing methods in their recovery programs. In such cases, holistic therapy typically involves pain relief and healing of the mind.
What Are Some Examples of Holistic Therapy?
It’s hard to define holistic therapy without mentioning the specific services. Some of the more common holistic addiction therapy services that rehab centers offer include:
- Yoga therapy
- Meditation therapy
- Fitness therapy
- Adventure therapy
- Wilderness therapy
All of these services create a better connection between the mind and body. This connection allows people to improve their lives. It also provides the inner power that they need to stay drug-free after rehab.
Benefits of Holistic Therapy
When used in conjunction with traditional therapies and treatment protocols, holistic therapy can be very beneficial to the recovery process. Some of the most significant benefits of holistic therapy are:
- Improves self-esteem, self-expression, and sense of identity
- Reduces stress and provides healthier coping mechanisms or hobbies
- Improves overall health and wellness
- Opens individuals to spiritual connection
- Helps to prevent relapse
One of the most important things you will need to learn for life after treatment is how to replace your old, dangerous coping mechanisms with healthier ones. Holistic therapy often sets the groundwork for new hobbies that will help you stay focused and prevent relapse.
The Importance of Creating New Hobbies
When rehab ends, the fight to stay drug-free continues. Thankfully, holistic rehab introduces people to activities that can fill their free time. In fact, studies show that developing hobbies is the key to avoiding relapse.
The holistic definition doesn’t talk much about developing new hobbies. However, people who participate in gardening, yoga, and similar activities can continue these after treatment. Doing so keeps their minds off using drugs.
Of course, it takes more than just a few hobbies to avoid relapse. People also have to continue going to support groups. The battle to stay sober is never-ending. With the right help and support, though, everyday life becomes easier.
Red Oak Recovery® Can Help
Are you a young adult or the parent/guardian of a young adult looking for addiction treatment programs? If so, consider Red Oak Recovery®. We provide both traditional and holistic recovery services. Some of the programs that we have include:
- Eco-therapy
- Intensive outpatient rehab
- Partial hospitalization treatment
- Holistic rehab
- Dual diagnosis treatment
Learn more about what is holistic therapy when you visit our facility. Find out what it takes to get drug-free and stay that way. Reach out to our friendly staff at 866.457.7590 or by filling out our online contact form to start your treatment.