Holy Yoga Therapy for at Riskdoc

8/3/2019 Holy Yoga Therapy for at Riskdoc

1/25

HOLY YOGA THERAPY FOR AT-RISK POPULATIONS

ADDICTION AS A HOLISTIC DISEASE

By Gina Tricamo, R.Y.T., M-H.Y.T.

Lay Aside Prayer

Dear God, please lay aside everything I think I know about this dis-ease, this

program, these Step, myself and especially you, God, so I may be open minded to a

new experience about this dis-ease, this program, these steps, myself and you, dear

God. Please show me the truth about the physical allergy, obsession of the mind and

spiritual malady. Prayer from the 4th Dimension NA Group in L.A., CA

God, give us grace to acceptwithserenity the things that cannot be changed, courage

to change the things that should be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish the one

from the other. By Christian theologian Reinhold Niebuhr in 1943 (Bartlett's Familiar

Quotations 17th ed.)

Websters Definitions for:

Accept to receive willingly, to give admittance, to endure without profit or reaction, torecognize as true, to receive

Serenity clear or free of storms or unpleasant change, shining bright and steady

Courage mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger; fear or

difficulty

Wisdom quality or state of being wise, knowledge of what is true or right coupled withjust judgment as to action, discernment, or insight

As we begin this journey of seeking God in our focus to bring holy yoga therapy for

at-risk populations, we are reassured of the Divines sacred place of safety:

Psalm 27: 4-6 One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in thehouse of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek

him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling, he will

hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will

be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice withshouts of joy, I will sing and make music to the Lord.

As we are called forth as Holy Yoga Therapist in ministry we are assured:

Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me

to preach good news to thepoor(the Hebrew word translated is Septuagint; meaning the

1


2/25


3/25

the 12 step program defines alcoholism/drugs as a physical allergy coupled with a

mental obsession linked to a spiritual malady, thus qualifying alcoholism-addiction as the first truly holistic disease

A yogi explains addiction as the minds innate tendency to mechanically and

habitually respond to present-time challenges with behaviors that worked in the

past (samskaras). In other words, todays problems were once yesterdayssolutions

A FEARLESS INVENTORY: I John 4:18 Perfect Love. (please read)

All of us know someone who has been afflicted in one way or another by the pain and

destruction of addiction. It takes courage to confront the issues, make a fearlessinventory and explore adjunct holistic methods to heal and live fully present lives without

succumbing any further to the wreckage of alcohol and/or drugs.

As believers, we know if the Son of God has set us free, we are free indeed (John 8:36).

As holy yogis we also know that if we micro-move towards the completion of Godsgreat work in us, we are to approach the work of recovery in the same Light and trust in

the healing of wholeness in the physical, mental and spiritual body

THE THREE CHARACTERISTICS OF ADDICTION:

Physical allergy

For addicts/alcoholics the physical dimension is described as:

An allergy-like bodily reaction resulting in the compulsion to continue using substances

after the initial use; once the drink or drug is ingested and craving begins

20% of the worlds population carries the erratic gene

Over a period of time the gene is subjected to a redesign and a genetic disposition is

inherent of family history (please review attached family tree diagram and prepare

for discussion)

In psychological terms the genetic disposition is described as anIntergenerational

Transmission. This dynamic is a spiraling down affect with a greater magnitude ofaddiction manifesting more intensely and profoundly each generation

It does not happen over night, it is slow and progressive, but definite. Studies haveindicated the liver, after continuous subjection to fight off the foreign chemicals digested,

produces redesigned chemistry. This toxic chemical is transported by the

neurotransmitters, which feed the neurons in the brain. The brain chemistry becomespolluted and impacts the normal homeostasis. What then is created is an altered physical

state of being, and eventually a chemical imbalance in the brain (discuss the Reward

Deficiency Syndrome/amino acid therapy

3


4/25

Obsession of the mind - The mental obsession is described as cognitive processes that

cause the individual to repeat the compulsive behavior after some period of abstinence

(known as relapse), either knowing that the result will be an inability to stop using oroperating under the delusion that the result will be different (i.e. I can stop after one

drink or I have done so good not using, I deserve to relax just this once and have a

good time like everyone else.)

The mind becomes like a gerbil entrapped in a plastic ball, spinning and spinningwithout relief or peace. Compounded with this dimension are a dual diagnosis disorder;

mental illness and obsession of the mind. A person may be diagnosed bi-polar,

schizophrenic, personality disorders or suffers other dementias, along with the disease ofaddiction.

Spiritual malady The dis-ease of the 4th dimension, or "spiritual malady," is

considered the result of self-centeredness and selfishness; free will running amuck. . Most

recovery programs have agreed that the spiritual malady is what creates the doors

opening to the physical and emotional deprivations of addiction.

Discussion:

In order for us to understand why yoga is now at the forefront of innovative holistic

treatment, lets investigate what takes place in the bodys systems and creates suchdevastation.

MEDICAL AND PHYSICAL:

The drugs of entry are alcohol, marijuana, sedatives, hypnotics and inhalants. Chemical

Organic Brain Syndrome (COBS) is created when drugs alter chemistry of the brain.Materials within the brain cell mass are changed, lasting days, weeks, months and attimes years. Although the high goes away, changes in the brain can linger at an

unconscious level. Neurotransmitters (chemicals that nourish and transmit the

neurons/nerve impulse) and brain cells themselves are destroyed, altered or blockedpermanently.

There are six categories ofMind Altering Drugs (MAD):

marijuana

sedative/hypnotics

narcotics/analgesics (pain killers) inhalants

hallucinogens

psychomotor stimulants (upper drugs)

MAD affects the brain and creates damage within the body/mind systems:

4


5/25

MARIJUANA: affects the brain by altering time and space perception, short term

memory (STM) is impaired and speech becomes disassociated.

The following are behavioral detriments:

nerve/muscle coordination is altered

hallucination with high dosage

alters brain tissue and cause atrophy (brain shrinkage)

misjudgment of distance, speed, relationships and reaction time

decrease in motivation and altered concentration

The following are detriments in the Hypothalamus and Pituitary Glands:

Marijuana causes the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to alter the sex

stimulating hormones. In males, decreases in sperm and testosterone. In female,decreases in female hormones with alterations in ovulation.

In a study of 12,000 women, the children of moms who smoked marijuana hadmore birth defects than those women who did not participate in smoking the drug

The following are detriments in the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems:

Increased blood pressure and heart rate

Redding, swelling and rupture of veins in eyes

Alteration of body temperature

Chronic cough and bronchitis, with ulceration and scaring of lungs

Decrease of oxygen and blood flow to lungs

Decrease in immunity to infections Impaired ability of bone marrow to produce bacteria-fighting cells

Marijuana carries bacteria and fungi that causes lung infections

Marijuana accumulate in the body and Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

becomes fat soluble, lingering in the cells and accumulating in the brain cells,blood and body system for lengthy periods of time

Withdrawal is longer and subtle

Symptoms of withdrawal are agitation, restlessness, sleep disorders, drug cravingand emotional roller coaster

NOTE: marijuana plants are sprayed with dangerous pesticides, putting toxins into the

bloodstream and throughout the body

ALCOHOL: It is the mostused and abused drug that negatively affects all organs and

human tissues

It affects physical and emotional development during adolescent years

Dangerous to use as a senior because it speeds up aging process

5


6/25

Causes fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or fetal alcohol affects (FAA) if used during

pregnancy

Decreases muscle tones, lost of coordination and impairs articulation

Sedative effect on the brain with depressive action causing respiratory arrest,

cardiac irregularity, shock, coma, liver damage and in many cases, death

Withdrawals are dangerous and uncomfortable, very physical, emotional andspiritually painful and requiring hospitalization

The Effect of Alcohol on the Brain:

1 Cup .02% Front Lateral Lobe

Discernment impaired

Inhibitions lowered

Manic behavior

Exaggerated disposition

3 Cups .06% - Temporal Lobe

Reaction time delayed

Co-ordination

Peripheral vision

Visual precision

5 Cups .10% - Middle Lobe

Vision impaired Hallucinations

Equilibrium

Perception of color

8 Cups .16% - Middle Lobe/Oblong

Walking

Standing

Controls breathing, circulation

20 Cups .40% - Back Lateral Lobe/ Cerebellum

Loss of consciousness

Coordinating center for muscular movement

Spinal Cord contains nerve tissue of CNS

6


7/25

25 Cups .50% - Back Lateral Lobe

Death

The Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Difficulty thinking (STM, LTM)

Loss of memory

Loss of consciousness

Jaundice-yellow skin with itching

Change in bone morrow

Swelling of veins in lungs (hemorrhage)

Difficulty breathing

Increase in lung size (swelling)

Damage to heart

Damage to liver (poor circulation) Dysfunction of red blood cells

Accumulation of fluid in stomach

Swelling of veins in stomach

Swelling of veins in hands

Debilitate sexual drive

Bruise/dark spots

Inflammation and water retention/swelling in legs

SEDATIVE/HYPNOTIC DRUGS: sleeping pills, alcohol, tranquilizers, and

antihistamines

How the brain is affected:

All sedative drugs sedate the brain cells

Progressive use creates deeper sedation affect

Drug tolerance, when the body adjust to dose so it requires more ingested

Telltale signs in brain begin to occur, such as lost of memory

Sleep patterns disruptive, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) inhibited

Restlessness, agitation and craving for more drug instead of rest

NARCOTICS (PAIN KILLERS)

Heroin, morphine, Demerol, codeine, percodan, darvon, talwin, stadol, fentanyl

Designer drugs effects serve nerve damage, palsy-like symptoms, permanenteffect, even fatal

Characteristics are highly addictive physically and psychologically

Attach immediately to neural receptors in the brain and bowels

7


8/25

Interfere with brains production of natural opium-like substances called

endorphins and neurotransmitters, making withdrawal difficult

Numbs pain, but creates side effects; convulsions, interfere with REM sleep andsleep disturbance

Slows heart, causing low blood pressure and shock

Interferes with digestion, cause constipation Tolerance is quickly developed; higher doses required

Withdrawal is very painful, lasting several weeks

Severe muscle spasm, abdominal cramping, running eyes and nose, diarrhea,

vomiting, nausea, weakness

Anxiety, restlessness, drug craving

STIMULANTS: cocaine, speed (amphetamines, Dexedrine, crystal meth, crank), Ritalin,

ephedrine (nasal decongestant), look-alikes

Creates a false sense of strength and confidence

Heightened arousal and pleasure stimulant

Goes to brain quickly

20 30 minute high, then severe crash, requiring more and more use of drug

side effects are racing mind, increased alertness, charged up feeling, impaired

judgment, decreased job efficiency

severe drug craving

crave more to reach previous heightened arousal

physically stimulates muscle activity

rapid speech/respirations

increased blood pressure

inflamed nasal membranes perforated septum

bridge of nose collapses

decreased appetite

restlessness

plugging up rectum, causing severe intestinal wall damage

constipation

urinary tract retention

COCAINE: extremely potent and dangerous

physically and psychologically addiction can occur within 10 days

affects neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that activate and transmit brain

activity)

brain cells block re-absorption of these chemicals after the neurotransmitters are

stimulated

goes to the brain quickly and high last only 20 to 30 minutes, followed by asevere crash, requiring more and more of the drug

8


9/25

tremendous craving, crash with exhaustion and sleep for days, depression,

euphoria goes to dysphasia

cocaine psychosis, alteration of senses, respiratory arrest, convulsions, even death

AMPHETMINES: Crystal meth or crank, Dexedrine, Ritalin

rapid heart beat and high blood pressure

sweating, dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety

loss of appetite, strokes, psychoses, paranoia, delusions, bizarre behavior,

disorientation

behavior is driven by drugs

chemical dependency

psychological dependency (need it to have fun)

PSYCHEDELIC HALLUCINOGENS perceptual distorters:

Hallucinogens have been used dating back to BC when human lives were sacrificed to

false idols known as sacred deities. The Egyptians provided theseperceptual distorters

to slaves that were buried alive with their masters upon his/her death. Even in present

history, hallucinogens are used for religious ritual for spiritual ceremonies among certain

tribes. These drugs have great detriments and harm to the brain and central nervous

system (CNS)

Types include LSD, Mushrooms (psilocybin), Peyote/Mescaline, DOM/STP,

Ecstasy (MDMS)

Alters chemical transmission of nerve impulses, causing hallucinations

Impair judgment of distance and time

Decreases reflexes

Long lasting and permanent damage to brain and CNS

Distorted thought processes

Brain burn out, unable to relate to what is occurring in the present

Frightening flashbacks after drugs have left the system

PCP: this drug is extremely dangerous, abnormal activity may continue despite painfulstimuli due to sense of pain receptors not registering to the CNS. Side effects include

violent or hostile behavior, anxiety and illogical behavior, increase in blood pressure,

muscle spasm, psychosis, convulsions, coma, respiratory and cardiac arrest, strokes and

death.

Withdrawal includes:

Depression

Anxiety

Suicidal ideology

Erratic behavior

9


10/25

Restlessness

Mental health hospitalization or permanent residency

INHALANTS: these drugs are legal, cheap, and easy to obtain and hide. They are verydeadly.

Types include gasoline, lighter fluid, shoe polish, spray paint, thinner, glue, white-out,

poppers (anal or butol nitrite) and permanent magic markers.

Dangerous chemicals side effects:

Serious, even permanent damage to the brain, liver, heart and kidneys

Asphyxiation and death from lack of oxygen

Drops in blood pressure, decrease in red and white blood cells, lowered immune

system

Severe inflammation of nose and lungs

Heart irregularities

Stress on the brain and cardio-respiratory tract may cause collapse and death

Light intolerance, blurred or double vision, ringing in ears

Develop mental illness and permanent dementia

Body muscles become weak, joints become inflamed and painful

Inflamed liver, hepatitis, kidney failure, kidney stones, inflammation of pancreas

Looking into the physical and medical aspect of controlled substance abuse, and how

it alters the body/mind/spirit, can be somewhat difficult, especially if we can relate to

these affects on a personal level. .

PERSONAL/SOCIAL

In regard to the personal/social aspect of addiction, it is important to recognize how

addictions cut off vital relationships. Many times when a person is entrapped in their

addiction they tend to be like an ostrich whose head is stuck in the sand, unaware of what

is taking place around them and who is being affected by their addiction.

Have you ever seen the size of an ostrich egg? It is very large and hard to miss, yet

when addictions come into play; even the most obvious is over looked and easily

forgotten. Consequently, this position not only is harmful to the addict, but also to the

vital relationships that surround his/her life. (

NOTE: in pervious yoga therapy an ostrich egg is used as a visual prop to create a sense

of body/mind/spiritual balance

It is necessary to have an open and honest discussion how the head in the ground position

impacts the vital life groups; self,family, culture, community, institutions andsociety

10


11/25

Refer to the VITAL LIFE GROUP DIAGRAM to make a fearless inventory. Write

down your beliefs how addictive behaviors impact the lives of each group. Think on the

terms of the four developmental domains: physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual.

11


12/25

Note: graph developed by Gina Tricamo and design by Danielle Velazquez

THE GOOD NEWS:

1 John 2:17 And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden

cravings of it; but he who does the will of God carries out His purpose in his life,

abides forever.

The good news is that as God reveals truth, we are charged to respond by making positive

steps and solutions. Proverbs 16:9 A mans heart plans his way, but God directs

his steps. A Plan of Action is what we are called to have so God can guide us into the

path He has destined for our purpose of life to be fulfilled.

Once sobriety is maintained there is a spiritual awakening during the recovery period, a

willingness to surrender ones will over to God and truly be of service without motive ormanipulation. This is a process (please read Psalm 57:8) (Psalm 16:9) Awake my

soul, awake my song, awake my Strength!

WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY:

Galina Pembroke, publisher and editor-and-chief of New View magazine reported,

Medical experts are theorizing that yoga may actually break the addictive cycle andindicated yoga therapy works in contrast to most therapies for addiction, which isolate

either the psychological or physiological aspects.

When the mind and body are connected and working in homeostasis the following is

what occurs to assist in healing addiction:

pranayamaand asana unite the body and mind all together simultaneously

restorative poses relax both the brain chemistry and body energy

energy becomes yoked, strengthening change in unhealthy habits

yogas non-competitive nature balances and calms the systems

focus onsuccess in effortinstead of result

yoga practice embraces your capabilities instead of cursing your limitations

acceptance of how far one has come, instead of how much further one have to go

Dr Karel Nespor, psychiatrist with the Department of Addictions in Prague Czech

Republic, used yoga to treat patients struggling with addiction. He stated: Yoga

teaches slow, controlled movements instead of reflexive, automatic behavior. Thismay be useful also during normal daily activities when coping with stimuli that

trigger addictive behavior.

12


13/25

Narain Singh, in Rajasthan, New Delhi uses light yoga exercises along with

group therapy to ease the pain of opium withdrawal. His first detoxification camp

was instituted in 1979. BBC News reported that of the 16 opium addicts whoconverged, all left cured. "The basis of cure at the Camp was love, brotherhoodand affection."

THREE SPIRITUAL MODELS

The 12 Steps

The Eight Limbs (Ashtanga Yoga)

Ten Commandments

God is the author of all wise works and our intent is to use these values and moralguidelines in working with Addicts in order for them to experience full homeostasis in

body/mind/spirit. 1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to hiseternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you

and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Twelve Steps

The Founders of AA were Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob. In 1934 Bill became sober and in1935 Dr. Bobs last drink was June 10, 1935. The Big Book, which contained the 12

Steps, was published in 1939. Research indicated that the writings were influenced from

The Good Book (the Bible) The concepts of spiritual experiences, pass it on andmoral inventory was derived from the Books of James, Matthew, 1 Corinthians 13, the

Sermon on the Mount, and the 10 Commandments. Dr. Bobs was also inspired by the

sermons of his friend, Rev. Samuel Shoemaker, Jr. Source of reference: AA Big

Book and 12 Steps Sources: Identifying the Roots of the References by Dick B, 2004

1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol - that our lives had become

unmanageable.

2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understoodHim.

4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

5. Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our

wrongs.

6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.

7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.

13


14/25

8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them

all.

9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would

injure them or others.

10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.

11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as

we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry

that out.

12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this

message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

The Eight Limb

In Patanjali's Yoga Sutra, the eightfold path is called ashtanga, which literally means"eight limbs" (ashta=eight, anga=limb). These eight steps basically act as guidelines on

how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. They serve as a prescription for moral and

ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one's health; and theyhelp us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.

Yama - The first limb,yama, deals with one's ethical standards and sense of integrity,

focusing on our behavior and how we conduct ourselves in life. Yamas areuniversal practices that relate best to what we know as the Golden Rule, "Dounto others as you would have them do unto you."

The five yamas are:

Ahimsa: nonviolence

Satya: truthfulness

Asteya: nonstealing

Brahmacharya: continence, self-restraint

Aparigraha: noncovetousness

Niyama - the second limb has to do with self-discipline and spiritual observances.

Regularly attending temple or church services, saying grace before meals, developing

14


15/25

your own personal meditation practices, or making a habit of taking contemplative walks

alone are all examples of niyamas in practice.

The five niyamas are:

Saucha: cleanliness

Samtosa: contentment

Tapas: spiritual austerities

Svadhyaya: study of the sacred scriptures and of one's self

Isvara pranidhana: surrender to God

The 10 Commandments

The 10 Commandments are found in the Bible's Old Testament in Exodus, Chapter 20.

They were given directly by God to the people of Israel at Mount Sinai after He had

delivered them from slavery in Egypt:

"And God spoke all these words, saying: 'I am the LORD your God

ONE: 'You shall have no other gods before Me.'

TWO: 'You shall not make for yourself a carved image--any likeness of anything that is

in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.'

THREE: 'You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.'

FOUR: 'Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.'

FIVE: 'Honor your father and your mother.'

SIX: 'You shall not murder.'

SEVEN: 'You shall not commit adultery.'

EIGHT: 'You shall not steal.'

NINE: 'You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.'

TEN: 'You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's

wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that

is your neighbor's.'

15


16/25

Testimony of Progress to Change for At-Risk Populations

Many years ago I witnessed homeless five-year old children in Mexico City

sniffing glue. It was devastating to see how these drugs fell into the venerablehands of innocent and already victimized children. There were no social services

for the children at that time, but there was a handful of hermanos (brothers) wholoved the Lord and opened a Casa de Caf por Dios (Gods Coffee House) so thechildren would be fed and hear the words of God through praise songs and

unconditional love from these godly brothers and sisters.

In Portland, Oregon,Street Yoga is a non-profit organization that takes yoga

practice to the streets for the homeless youths; giving them a sense of hope andintegrity in spite of their daily trials and uncertainty. They do funding raisers

around yoga events to support their cause to help the youths to go within so they

dont go without! The missing component is sharing the Word!

What greaterkarma yoga (selfless service) can we do, as Holy Yoga Therapists, then to

bring the message of Gods love and compassion beyond the walls of churches, andclassrooms and yoga studios and into the streets, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation

facilities. Clearly, we are given discernment that the harvest is ready, but the laborers arefew (Matthew 9:37) We are to glean as Ruth did, with loyalty and faithful trust of

provision (Book of Ruth) to heal the addicts, the lost and the ones soon to be found for

Gods purpose.

The focus is for the Holy Yoga Ministry takes a faith step toward the rehabilitation arenaand bring with it the true Vital Light Source, the Giver of Life and the Redeemer of all

souls; no matter if their conditions are wounded, fragmented and brokenso the miracle

of wholeness is the testimony of Love.

TAKING THE RISK TO CHANGE

In a certain sense, addictions are an alternative for what we truly hope for and desire.

How often have we reached for a drink as a substitute for touch? Deep inside, we may

sabotage heartfelt ambitions because we are fearful, either of failure or success.Internally, we feel unworthy of the wellbeing God desires for us to experience.

We are assured in our meditative thoughts, (Act 2:26)Therefore, my heart is glad and

my tongue rejoices, my body also will live in hope; because you will not abandon me to

the grave; you have made known to me my path of life. What an awakening! What a

call to recovery, healing, deliverance and being wholly. Now is the time to begin thegood work!

Yoga Therapy for Addiction

In working with students who have been in recovery, we take into consideration;

the time period of their recovery

16


17/25

how their drug of choice has impacted their homeostasis, physical, mental,

cognitive and spiritual

their capacity to be still and know.

There arepoints to considerwhen teaching holy yoga to students detoxing from

stopping drugs, especially if you are in a hospital or rehabilitation setting:

Is the CNS over firing or sluggish

Observe for anxiety, agitation or exhaustion

Affirm where ever they are at physically or mentally

Ability to focus or remain in poses

Is their energy so that you begin standing poses or in savasana

Everyone breath is like their own unique finger-print, let them experiment

Is music levels distracting due to heighten sensitivity to noise

Make room to move from inappropriate to appropriate behaviors

Use discretion on touching or decompressing spinal column, shoulders, etc. Choose simply Gods Word and keep it simple

Integrate 12 steps into meditation

Compassion, compassion, compassion with breath

Yoga for Addiction facilitates:

A balanced approach to recovery

Moderation in motion

An antidote to the extremism that characterizes addiction

As a model for compulsive behavior, by integrating control and release behaviors

Correction through sensation by direct bodily experience Non-competitive nature, which balances us and encourages looking beyond

conventional definitions of achievement

Our success being dependent on effort instead of result

Embracing capabilities instead of cursing ones limitations

Experiencing the blessing and rewards of practice, unhealthy substitutes lose their

flavor.

CONTEMPLATING THE DEPTH OF OUR CORE BEING

Our body/mind/spirit design was created in Divine Order. It was not an evolutionary

error! We were wonderfully and intimately created with over 72,000 pressure points. All

of these energetic systems and sheaths of awakening were designed to make us fullypresent, as well to heal and manage our lives according to Gods Divine plan of purpose.

Let us look at the correlation of the Five Koshas and Seven Chakras as we consider the

energetic bodies capabilities and miraculous ability to heal damages in the systems.

The Five Koshas Model to discovery in recovery:

17


18/25

Yoga philosophy teaches us that our physical body is actually composed of 3 bodies and

that within these 3 bodies there are 5 layers. The 3 bodies are named: The Physical Body,

The Astral Body and the Causal Body.

The Physical Body Composed of just one layer: The Annamaya kosha.

1. Annamaya Kosha This is literally the food sheath or the physical body. It is

composed of muscles, bones, skin, our organs and the entire physical manifestation of our

being. It is what we see and feel physically, it is tangible and can be measured and has a 3dimensional existence in time and space. Food is required to sustain the physical body.

This kosha relates to all of the physical systems of the body, as well as the five elements

of the physical body earth, water, fire, air and space. In terms of health, the annamaya

kosha relates to balance in the elements. Yoga postures are a main vehicle for balancingthe physical body. Eventually the body will decompose and return to the earth.

The Astral Body - Composed of 3 sheaths The Pranamaya Kosha, Manomaya Kosha

and the Vijnanamaya Kosha.

2. Pranamaya Kosha This pranic sheath is the energy body and is more subtle thanthe food sheath and contains the 72,000 nadis or astral tubes through which the prana or

vital energy flows. The flow of your breath resides in this layer. It is in the pranic sheath

that we experience heat, cold, hunger and thirst. When prana is blocked or stagnant,

disease can occur. Yoga postures remove constrictions from the chakras and open theenergy channels.

3. Manomaya Kosha Psycho-Mental body This sheath houses our thoughtsincluding the logical mind and also our subconscious minds. It is where we process input

from the outside world that we take in through the 5 senses. The working of this mind is

automatic in nature. The central nervous system resides here and the basic drives andemotional responses associated with them. These include the fight or flight response,

survival and reproduction, social roles and personality. Blockage in this body manifests

as stress and eventually as a physical or mental illness. Yoga postures are a main vehiclefor relieving stress and allowing relaxation.

4. Vijnanamaya Kosha The Wisdom Body or Intuitive Sheath. This is our higher

consciousness or higher intelligence that detects patterns which are emotionally painfuland physically harmful (such as an addiction lifestyle). It is here that we can cultivate

the power of discrimination and can begin to overcome some of the automatic tendencies

and eventually make the steps to change these inappropriate habits. This wisdom bodyhouses our ego and is more subtle than the Mental Sheath. Yoga and meditation develop

the calm concentration to be still and know to seek wisdom and understanding.

5. Anandamaya Kosha This is the bliss body the most subtle sheath of all. The

karmic impressions are stored here and are said to control the formation and growth of

the other two bodies. It is through this body that we experience deep joy and bliss. It is

through the practice of yoga and meditation that we gain access and enter the doorway to

18


19/25

our true purpose of life. As Christians, we find this awakening to be the deepest and

most intimate state of being in the presence of God. Holy is His Name, we can only

begin to rise up, only to surrender back into Humble Pose out of adoration and awe ofGods vastness and greatness. In this connectiveness to God it is unimaginable to live

our lives without His sovereignty and love. Holy, holy, holy!

The Chakras:

The chakras are the center of vital energy force in the body and responsible for balancephysically, psychological and spiritual. Yoga poses are pathways for opening and

balancing the chakras. Nadis are housed in the Astral Body. Like the central nervous

system and the blood stream, the nadis transport energy from one part of the body toother parts of the body. The places where many nadis intersect are the chakras, which

operate as a spiraling disk that propels energy along the spinal column.

The First Chakra Muladhara, Location - base of the body, Element earth, Color red, Kosha - Annamayakosha (physical body), Issues - survival fear, Balanced

groundedness and safety, Areas of body eliminatory system, legs and feet Health

19


20/25

problems joints, skeletal Yoga Postures standing poses, stabilization poses, hip

openers

The Second Chakra Swadhisthana, Location four fingers below naval, Element water, Color orange, Kosha Pranamaya (Energy body) , Issues intimacy,

emotions, Balanced healthy sexuality, Areas of body reproduction and pelvic area

Health problems reproductive Yoga Postures hip openers, stabilization, forwardbends

The Third Chakra Manipura , Location solar plexus, Element fire, Color

yellow, Koshas Manomaya (Psycho-Emotional Body), Issues self esteem, social

roles Balanced healthy social roles, Areas of body stomach, liver, small intestine,

Health problems digestive, Yoga Postures twists, lateral bends, back bends

The Forth Chakra Anahata, Location heart, Element fire, Color green,Kosha Mano/Vijnyanamaya (Wisdom Body), Issues depression, pessimism,

Balanced unconditional love, Areas of body heart, lungs, shoulders, arms Health

problems heart, respiratory, Yoga Postures back bends, lateral bends

The Fifth Chakra Vishuddha, Location throat, Element air, Color blue, Kosha

Vijnyanamaya (Wisdom Body), Issues intuition, communication, Balanced

internal focus of control, Areas of body throat, speech, Yoga Postures back bends,forward bends, lion breath

The Sixth Chakra Ajna, Location third eye, Element space, Color violet,

Kosha Anandamaya (Bliss Body), Issues dedication to spiritual path, Balanced calm and focused, Areas of Body the senses, Heath problems sense related, Yoga

Postures balance, inversions, savasana

The Seventh Chakra Shahasrara, Location crown, Element space, Color

Crystal Light, Koshas Anandamaya (Bliss Body), Issues spiritual separation,

Balanced Unity Consciousness ( Fellowship with Believers), Health problems separation from source of Spirit, Yoga Postures inversions, meditation

Specific yoga asana for treating recovery of body/mind/spirit:

When the mind and body are connected and working in homeostasis the following iswhat occurs to assist in healing addiction:

pranayama and asana unite the body and mind all together simultaneously

Restorative poses relax both the brain chemistry and body energy

Energy becomes yoked, strengthening change in unhealthy habits

Yogas non-competitive nature balances and calms the systems

Encouragessuccess in effortinstead of result

20


21/25

Yoga practice embraces your capabilities instead of cursing your limitations

Acceptance of how far one has come, instead of how much further one have to go

With reflection ofpoints to consider, the following is an example of a specific yogapractice model, developed by Addiction Specialist, Dr. Nespor, who recommended a

yoga program that progresses from:

Posture to breath work

Breath-work to meditation

The following is an example:

Marjarisina (cat): While on your hands and knees, you inhale as head elevates

and your stomach drops. Pause briefly.

Ushtrasana (camel): Begin by kneeling. Reach back towards your calves.

Gently return forward if there is too much discomfort. Those more experiencedmay rest their hands on their ankles. Return within one minute

Full yoga breath (complete breath): Sit down with legs seated comfortably

and shoulders back. Inhale as deeply as you can while maintaining smoothbreath. Note your belly expanding. As you exhale, feel your belly sink and lungs

empty. Do not force-yield. Continue for five minutes. (This exercise should be

performed in an area with fresh, clean air).

Shavasana (corpse): Lying on the floor with your legs comfortable apart and

arms limp by your side. Observing your breath, your thoughts are directed

towards detecting and discarding any remnants of tension. Thoughts are regarded

then thoughts are released. This is the birth of mindfulness.

Note: you may use yoga blocks for the Ushtrasana pose

Another yoga practice model is by Cherie, yoga therapist and yoga retreat facilitator

in London, UK. She suggested using the following asana to create a new perspective

and begin to eliminate emotional duress:

Adho Mukha Svasana (Downward Facing Dog) - bring a new perspective

and allows looking into the world from a different angle

Light backbend poses - bring about an opening in the chest and solar plexus

area, encouraging the elimination of stored hurt (both real and perceived)

Apanasana knees to chest or wind producing pose

Seated or lying twists

Viparita karani - shoulder/stand/variation

21


22/25

From my own personal work for and with at-risk youth and adults in recovery, I have

learned that everyones level of success is unique and special, and with that in mind I

approach the Holy Yoga practice with a open mind and open heart.

THE ROLE OF MUSIC THERAPY

Music is two fold: holistic healing and meditative

brings us into a spiritual space of worship

creates a vibration of healing energy into the cells through the whole systems

vibrations of tones along the chakras open blocks to receive healing

play list selected for healing of at-risk populations:

WORDS OF GOD SPEAK by Mercy Me

CRY OUT TO JESUS by Third Day

HELD by Natalie Grant PRELUDE TO A KISS by Alicia Keys

If the student choices to hum, it is even more beneficial:

The vibration along the esophagus begins an opening of the throat chakra (internal voice

that has not been heard due to the numbness and detachment of the addiction state),creating release of energy and gasp for breath (allowing a new beginning of taking in the

vital life breath of the Divine).

CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE HEALING POSES

Kinepathic Forgiveness Pose draw in Gods breath while arms, side bodypositioned, flow in a circular, inward vortex movement, towards the body.

Continue in a fluid, energetic movement, while gently breathing; inhaling and

exhaling; up to eight counts or more if needed. Draw the arms outward to

shoulder length (as if you are slowly extending a musical Accordion), opening theheart center. Slowly, with breath work, bring the palms together (you will sense

the chi, prana, God given molecules creating a magnetic field of energy) and

gentle draw the hands toward the floor chakra. Cup your hands and continue tobreath, drawing upward along the Chakra pathways of the spinal columnpause

by your heart. Set you intent!

During this moment of reflection meditation words can be spoken. Keep it simple:

Leave it and let go .

Unforgiveness is one of the major hindrances that can obstruct healing.

22


23/25

Mark 11: 25 26 and whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against

anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go) in order that your Father, who is

in heaven may also forgive you your (own) failings and shortcomings and let themdrop; but if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your

failings and shortcomings.

As the cupped hands move from the heart chakra, up towards the throat chakra, speak

words of release (may it be a physical concerns or emotional thought that no longerserve a purpose), and draw hands together over the third eye chakra (as if youR eyes

are glancing through lenses, the window of the soul). Take a profoundly deep breath

and energetically exhale (a loud groan may manifest) , extending arms with praisehands (fearless mundra) over the head. Upon release open arm wide and let them

float to your side and flow into Tadasana (Mountain Pose). This can be repeated

two more times. Students greatly benefit from this pose by the removal of stagnantenergy blocks and opening of vital life force; creating a flow of Divine grace and

homeostasis.

Note: Teacher will give demonstration of the Forgiveness Pose (use stash closet

analogy)

Lion Breath another excellent release of tension in the CNS and allowing the

blockage of the inner voice; creating communication and dialogue regarding the

behavioral issues around addiction.

Circle Savasana - have students arrange their mats into a circle and lye downwith their feet in the same direction, creating a small inner circle (their feet may

touch). This meditative positioning provides a sense of awareness that they are

supporting one another and are not doing the deal alone. Jesus said he would

never leave us or forsake us and this circle of meditative unity where two or moreare gathered in his name, demonstrates a visual imagery that he truly is in the mist

of them.

Pre-Assignment Work:

Master Students will do research on the listed asanas and be ready to

participate and discuss how therapeutically beneficial the poses are for

the recovery of addictions

Please refer to the below examples to get you started:

Twists

Ardha Matsyendrasana (seated spinal twist) benefits: open the rib cage and

breath, massages the digestive organs and the immune system, and sedates the

nervous system

23


24/25

Hip Openers

Setubandhasana (Bridge pose) benefits: strength the back, buttocks, legs and

ankles, open the chest, solar plexus and hips, massages the kidneys, thyroid and

adrenal glands

Stabilization

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog) benefits: creates integration and

balance between upper and lower body, strengthens and stretches legs and

shoulders, calming for the nervous system.

NOTE: Now its your turn to share your knowledge regarding the benefits

of the listed poses:

Back Bends Standing Balance

Lateral Bends Forward Bends Inversions

Conclusion:

This session is dedicated to the many brothers and sisters who have been set free and to

those who are yet to be set free from addictions of all manners. I am truly grateful and

give God the glory from deliverance of an addictive lifestyle. By the Son of God truly

setting me free I am a living testimony of healing and wholeness.

This amazing journey to take a pro-active and compassionate step as a Holy Yoga

Therapist is one that will provide many days of challenges, surrender to our Greatest

Source and allowing the truth (that it is not about the yoga) to resonate in order for yourholy yoga ministry to enter into a deeper dimensional relationship of Christ-like service.

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, then to lay down ones life for his

friend.

When we are called to bow down all that we have in body/mind/spirit so we can walk,

talk, cry and laugh with God in order to demonstrate obedience to his commandments iswhen the Spirit awaken a new journey of love within us for our fellow men and women.

This presentation is a compassionate call for Professionals, Holistic and Yoga Therapist

to take the healthy risk to bring holy yoga and meditation to addicts so they may behealed and made whole.

Proverbs 11:13 He who wins lives (souls) is wise. May we all enter this state of

wisdom.

24


25/25

Finally, holy yogis, it was written upon my heart by the Holy Spirit many years ago these

words, Every aspect of growth comes from the recognition that God is building my

character by every situation, dilemma and encounter set before me, and with thisknowledge I am to press forward. It is my pray that you all may press forward with this

knowledge and allow God to bless each and every situation, dilemma and encounter as he

raises you up as Holy Yoga Therapist.

Blessed are the balanced (please read 2 Peter 3; 17)

Ephesians 5:15 Live life with a due sense of responsibility, not as those who do not

know the meaning of life, but as those who do.

May our Vital Life Force, Jesus, resonate peace, harmony and love.

Gina Tricamo,R.Y. T., M H.Y. T.

Addiction Bible Scriptures Resource:

Bob and Shelley, founders and creators ofAddiction Bible Scripture E-book, has createdan on line book filled with Scripture dealing with all the issues around the wreckage of

addiction and regarding the healing of recovery

.Their intent is to, bring recovery back to the bible. The e-book is based upon biblical

truths that will guide the seeker from the prison of addiction and compulsion to feeling as

if God is speaking directly, and giving strength and hope to continue in the path ofwholeness in body/mind/spirit.

NOTE: Please refer to the below LINK and resource in developing and infusing theWord into your Holy Yoga Therapy sessions for Addiction.

Addiction Bible Scriptureshttp://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-bible-scriptures-master.pdf
http://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-bible-scriptures-master.pdfhttp://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-bible-scriptures-master.pdfhttp://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-bible-scriptures-master.pdfhttp://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-bible-scriptures-master.pdf

Holy Yoga Therapy for at Riskdoc

Documents

Transcript of Holy Yoga Therapy for at Riskdoc