

_Copyright_

All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever, without direct attribution and a link back to www.HarborVillageDetox.com. For information, address the publisher at:

Jessica Rae Pulver-Adell  
1515 NW 167th St.  
Miami, 33169

© 2015 Harbor Village and Jessica Rae Pulver-Adell. All rights reserved.

For information about detoxification, rehabilitation, and drug counseling contact Harbor Village at (855)767-8285 or info@harborvillageflorida.com.

For special discounts available for bulk purchases, sales promotions, fund-raising and educational needs, contact Harbor Village at (305)907-6574 ex. 112 or info@harborvillageflorida.com.

Visit the Harbor Village's website at www.HarborVillageDetox.com.

First Edition

The content provided herein is simply for educational purposes, and do not take the place of a certified medical professional. Every effort has been made to ensure the content provided in this text is accurate and helpful for our readers at publishing time. However, this is not an exhaustive treatment of the subjects. No liability is assumed for losses or damages due to the information provided. You are responsible for your own choices, actions, and results. You should consult your medical professional for your specific detoxification, rehabilitation, and therapeutic needs.

# Table of Contents

Acknowledgments vi

Preface vii

Introduction ix

How to Use This Book x

What Is Holistic Healing? 1

What Is Crystal Healing? 13

 Crystal Healing for Addiction by Substance 23

Heroin 23

Marijuana 26

Methamphetamine 27

Alcohol 30

Synthetic Drugs 32

 Crystal Healing for Psychological Wellness 33

Depression 34

Anxiety 36

Hyperactivity 39

[  
Lack of Energy 40](tmp_42022954311f0f2404ce9efe952afdbb_jI4WaX.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_007.html#x4.2.4._Lack_of_Energy__outline)

Stress 42

Clarity of Mind 43

[Communication  
43](tmp_42022954311f0f2404ce9efe952afdbb_jI4WaX.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_007.html#x4.2.7.Communication__outline)

Self-Love 44

Crystal Healing in Action 45

Pendants 45

Worry Stones 47

Gem Pouches 48

Gem Water 48

 Feng Shui for Recovery: Creating Environments of Healing 51

Feng Shui Basics 56

Finding Your Energy Map 57

Abundance 58

Fame & Reputation 59

Romance 59

Family 60

Health and Fortune 61

Children & Creativity 61

Wisdom & Self-Actualization 61

Career Path 62

Spirituality and Guidance 63

The Elemental Energies of Feng Shui 63

Fire 63

Earth 64

Metal 64

Water 64

Wood 65

Chakra Healing for Addiction Recovery 67

Chakra Healing 101 68

The Root Chakra 69

The Sacral Chakra 72

The Solar Plexus Chakra 74

The Heart Chakra 77

The Throat Chakra 79

The Third Eye Chakra 81

The Crown Chakra 83

Daily Affirmations 86

Affirmations to Boost Self Esteem 87

Affirmations for Depression 89

Affirmations to Start Something New 91

Affirmations to Achieve Your Goals 92

 Affirmations to Remember Recovery Is Possible 92

Oracle Decks for Recovery 95

 What Is an Oracle Deck, and Is it Evil? 95

The Purpose of Oracle Decks 96

Using an Oracle for Recovery 98

The Three Card Spread 99

Choosing a Deck for Recovery 100

The Art of Tea Drinking 103

 Memory's Role in Addiction Recovery 103

What Is Mindful Meditation? 104

Just Go to Bed! 104

Green Tea Boosts Working Memory 105

The Psychological Boons of Tea 105

Reading Tea Leaves 106

How to Read Tea Leaves 107

The Properties of Specific Teas 108

Adult Coloring for Recovery 110

Why Adult Coloring? 110

Fighting Addiction with Coloring 110

Mandalas 112

Doodling for Improving Memory 112

The Psychology of Color 113

Meditation 115

 What You Need to Know About Meditation & Recovery 115

 Harbor Village's Vito Pelikan on Meditation 118

Meditation Basics 121

Metta: Kindness Meditation 122

Steps to Practice Metta Meditation 122

Mindfulness Mediation 124

Steps to Practice Mindful meditation 124

I Am Meditation 125

Steps to Practice I Am Meditation 125

Guided Meditation 126

Keeping a Recovery Journal 127

Creating Measurable Goals 128

Scrapbooking for Addiction Recovery 129

Psychological Benefits of Scrapbooking 131

Altered Journals & Smash Books 132

Practical Wisdom for Addiction Recovery 134

 Coping with Withdrawal Anxiety, Do not Wait for "Rock Bottom" 134

 You DO NOT Have to Wait for "Rock Bottom" 138

 Love Yourself by Letting Go of the Past 138

Nutrition and Addiction Recovery 140

Addiction and the Body 140

 The Power of Antioxidants for Addiction 141

 Restoring Neurotransmitters with Amino Acids 142

 The Importance of Nutrition in Recovery in A Nutshell 143

 Reconnect with Friends & Family after Addiction 144

 Oppressor of Addiction: The Perceived Morality Crisis 145

 A Note to Parents about Addiction & Self Harm 148

Self-Esteem's Role in Addiction 149

 Improve Working Memory & Begin Cognition Therapy 157

Aromatherapy for Depression 160

Essential Oils for Depression 160

The Therapists of Harbor Village 163

Antoinette Hernani: Clinical Therapist 163

Vito Pelikan: Life Coach 166

Elizabeth Kittay: Clinical Therapist 168

[The Charge Nurses of Harbor Village  
171](tmp_42022954311f0f2404ce9efe952afdbb_jI4WaX.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_020.html#x16.The_Charge_Nurses_of_Harbor_Village__outline)

Edda Riveros 171

Meet Liset Cruz: Charge Nurse 175

Services of Harbor Village 177

Table of Illustrations 179

Endnotes 180

Bibliography 180

[List of Contributors  
184](tmp_42022954311f0f2404ce9efe952afdbb_jI4WaX.ch.fixed.fc.tidied.stylehacked.xfixed_split_023.html#x21.List_of_Contributors__outline)

Contact the Author: 188

# Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Harbor Village Recovery for making this book a possibility. The dedication of every individual staff member in our detoxification and rehabilitation programs make it possible for thousands of people struggling with substance use disorders to return to their lives and loved ones, free from the tethers of addiction. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work on this project that may give light, hope, and catalyze the recovery of all who pick up this book.

In earnest, I would like to take the time to mention, and thank, every person struggling with addiction for continuing to rail against the disease. It is because of you, and your families, that we will continue to fight against the travesties of the disease. We will push to revolutionize the stigma of addiction and find the answers to setting those beset by the disease forever free.

Thank you Professor Zackery Burks, you have continually inspired me to chase my ambitions, despite the odds of failure. Thank you for inspiring those around you to return to what we all ultimately seek: self-actualization.

Thank you, Dr. Pamela Marcus, for loving me when I could not love myself, and showing me how to reflect my inner light to the universe.

And of course, thank you mom and dad for always being my anchor in the storms of myself.

#  Preface

Addiction is perhaps the great equalizer we would wish away had we the ability; the disease afflicts all without regards to race, gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. In many cases, the disease comes espoused with mental illnesses and underlying traumas left unaddressed for a testament of years. As someone who has struggled with many of the precursors of addiction (depression, low self-esteem, and unfortunate life experiences leading to the brambles of self-harm), I found myself on the precipice of remaining absolutely mad- should I have continued to be drawn by the intimate insanity inside without hope of release, save the bits of skin I would melt away. Yet I did find a way out, and in a non-traditional means: holistic healing.

Embracing holistic healing is less farfetched than it may have been a decade ago. I want to show you how embracing an alternative means of treatment, before, during, and after addiction recovery will help speed your path to sobriety, and enliven your spirit to experience life for all of the colors deadened by the dredges of addiction.

This book is the manifestation of knowledge nearly ten yeas accrued from personal study and how these measures lend themselves to treating the underlying causes of addiction, self-harm, and mental unrest. Many cognitive afflictions share similar symptoms and psychological expression (i.e.: depression). While it is true traditional therapy is necessary to treat chronic and budding substance use disorders, there are spiritual tactics which you may employ from home, speeding the recovery process, and allowing you to redefine who it is _you_ want to be in this life.

Addiction cannot define you if you do not allow it. That is the premise of this book. In your hands (or more likely, on your screen) you hold the key to unlocking your life into the reality you wish it to be. Addiction cannot keep you prisoner if you relinquish its hold on you; addressing the anxieties welled up inside of you is key to freeing yourself to experience life for all the beauties it is meant to be.

If you are someone suffering from addiction, self-harm, or mental illness, _this book is for you._ It will show you how to employ holistic healing in your everyday life to achieve the aspirations you have always dreamed of, and how to live your life in peace, harmony, and guide you to the beginning steps of fulfilling self-actualization.

If you are a loved one of someone else who is struggling from addiction, _this book is for you._ Although it is beyond the scope of this book to define the intrinsic nature of addiction, this text will arm you with actionable solutions you can begin working with your loved ones to overcome the disease of addiction from the inside out. Maybe you have tried therapy, or other means of reaching your loved one without success; this book is the bridge between traditional medical wellness and the venerable healing arts of Eastern medicine.

Holistic healing cannot usurp the place of rehabilitation treatment. Yet what it can do is induce change, open oneself to the possibility and willingness to go to treatment, and keep one on the path of recovery once finally traversing rehabilitation. Holistic healing is more than a routine ritual, it is a perennial state of being which will unfetter your creative, intellectual, and inherent potential stifled by addiction.

You are the culmination of your choices, not the reflection of self-perceived failures. _Addiction is not a choice_ \- but there are means that will return you as the forbearer of your fate. This book will help you do that, from the inside out.

In comparison to other books on addiction recovery, this book takes an approach to mindful thinking, and addressing not "addiction," _but the causes of addiction._ It is well known addiction is a means of self-medicating feelings of depression, anxiety, and inward ills. This book will help you silence and resolve the inner demons fomenting addiction.

Do not mistake this as a magic formula to fell the disease of addiction outright, but a roadmap that if you commit yourself to, will ultimately bring you the happiness of shedding your psychological and emotional pain, allowing you to pursue the passions you have always dreamed of.

#  Introduction

Johann Hari says the opposite of addiction is _connection._ i For years we have dedicated all of our financial, emotional, and physical resources to thwart addiction with barbed fetters. We have persecuted and maimed the social perception of what addiction is, and is not. In doing so, we have created a society which is overly reliant on the institution of singularity in treatment and detainment- of embracing animosity, and branding addiction as a willful choice. All research tells us otherwise. Addiction is a physical and psychological state imposed on us by genetic disposition, environmental stimuli, and an inability to "be present in existence." Addiction is a manifestation of inner turmoil and travesty. It is the fruition of society instructing us to never share our emotions, to "man or woman" up, and to remain entirely self-sufficient, lest you be accused of being "clingy" or "needy."

Addiction is the cause of lives ignored, in need of love and light; addiction exists because of lack of purpose; of the inability to find a measure of hope; addiction thrives in environments of judgement, self-doubt, and persecution; addiction festers in self-odium, sometimes self-taught; addiction is the culmination of loneliness- of the deficit of emotional fulfillment, physical wellness, and spiritual affinity in even measures. Addiction cannot be expressed, nor branded with half-hearted attempts to raze mental disorders or physical disposition to the systematic bodily institution of dependence, it must be embraced for the entirety of its reality- streaking far beyond our tangible planes: to indwelling heartbreak long left writhing in the escape of addictive substances of choice.

This explanation of the disease is not limited to those who permit themselves to traipse the waters of holistic recovery- but a description of the full bodied wraith of addiction; of loss; of abandonment; of the inability to connect with universal love and the consciousness of all. Addiction is the _unwillful_ abandonment of life. Addiction is the admittance, and acquiescence to the cruelty of the human continuum.

Yet there is light.

There exists light in all things. There is always hope in leagues of despair. Even if you have read it in every recovery book, every pamphlet, heard it spoken by every well-intentioned passerby, and you have never believed it, _believe it now._ Because there is _always_ hope. In every state of recovery- including the suspension before recovery, there are energies working to bring you to the ultimate fruition of your true self. Every tribulation you have lived through, every brush with death, and every moment you have spent hulled up in the expanse of yourself to dull the pain of life- has prepared you to ascend to the inner stirrings of your soul.

You must not believe in the universal spirit, nor must you submit to any spiritual dogma, to benefit from this book. All required of you is an open mind. Your heart, we will open together. _Holistic Healing for Drug & Alcohol Addiction_ is the aggregation of study into the metaphysical arts. This book is the prescription for my own soul, the remedies which gave my life purpose after I lost everything to the fragments of my own spirit. When the nothingness enveloped me, and I was convinced I would not make it out alive- when therapy alone could not make me whole, I realized I had to find solace within myself. But I did not know how. More questions than decided answers remain, yet these curatives I have found to resurrect the dwelling inside of me.

### How to Use This Book

Explore every inch, every margin in whichever manner you please. Each chapter can serve as a mini course in a selected New Age, holistic healing art. When read as appearing, each course reverberates to the next, offering ideal cohesion and progression of ideas and principals. Either way is correct, simply enjoy the experience, ask questions, deviate to your own patterns of thought, and always, remain vigilant. Know there are more fascinations in the realm of our existence to save you from the darkness. Understand you have the power over it. The keys reside within you.

_Holistic Healing_

#  What Is Holistic Healing?

Holistic healing is the practice of harmonizing the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual planes of yourself. The mystic arts are the equalizers for those suffering from physical and mental unrest, because to practice holistic healing the only catalyst needed is _you._ Accessible to all willing to remain open, embracing the philosophies and principals of holistic arts, is to take responsibility for the energy you project into the world.

Holistic healing emphasizes the unity of body, mind, and spirit. Although we are bombarded by the concept in the revitalization of new age, and holistic healing practices, many forgo to impart the essential principals which make the marriage of these principals tangible. It is not enough to participate ritualistically and expect change to occur, almost through osmosis. For holistic healing to be truly effective, one must embrace the psychological aspect of the practices.

The power to change is _inside of you._ What we assume to be effective on the outside, whether it is by means of therapy, crystal healing, or meditation, are simply catalysts to mobilize the indwelling of your spirit to take action against the haunts running amuck underneath the surface. It is not the mere presence of an outside force which induces change, it is the shift of your personal attitudes and feelings towards the situation at hand.

Addiction cannot be eliminated from merely superficial or outward resolution (such as the _attendance_ of therapy with the absence of conflict resolution). The disease is only abated when the mind is mended, or given an alternative means of expression. Addiction is the _symptom_ of a problem, it is not _the_ problem. Although this may seem counterintuitive, to truly treat addiction we must first address the causes of it.

It is never enough to point fingers at addiction and rest blame at its feet, we must continually endeavor to uncover why it has been allowed to manifest, and combat scourges found without hesitation. Holistic healing gives us the ability to travel _inwards_ and explore, identify, confront, and begin to heal the causes of substance use disorders. Similarly to cognitive behavioral therapy, the pinnacle of addiction treatment, holistic healing, practiced with full cognitive engagement and emotional sensitivity, will allow you to re-wire your mind to express yourself in alternative means, and to banish the crutches of addiction altogether.

The urgency of treating addiction stems from the medical state of emergency the condition precipitates. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH) asserts more than 16,000 overdoses in 2013 resulted from opiate prescription drug abuse alone. ii Substance use disorders left untreated cause permanent physical and psychological damage. Addiction spurs immediacy, as the consequences of the disorder are dire, creating a second tier of dread unique to substance abuse. It is within this spectrum of thought the underlying causes of the disease can be cast aside in favor of merely treating the outward signs of the disease: overdose, the development of medical conditions, psychological deterioration, and lifestyle degradation (homelessness, divorce, etc.). The dangers of succumbing to the mortality of addiction force us to skim the surface of recovery for immediate liberation. But it is not enough alone.

Holistic healing allows you, and your loved ones, to take arms against the brambles of addiction from the core of your existence, and purge the psychological, emotional, and mental throes of the disease. It is less concerned with the physical aspects of the disorder- yet despite this, the physical body is an integral part of the healing process. But not in the context we would normally expect. Instead of the body serving as the vessel to carry us along in life, holistic healing reminds us to revere each limb as our connection to our inner selves. Without understanding and balancing the physical body, one cannot achieve harmony, nor truly master the fate of himself. Alternative medicine reminds us to employ the use of our entire selves to entreat true change, cementing the tactics of its practice into the physical realm, and not merely in the intangible sphere of the mind.

Holistic healing caresses each minute instance of the human existence, and seeks to harmonize each disjointed segment into fluidity. It is believed when one aspect of the self is out of balance, it foments the creation of physical sickness. Holistic medicine enables us to remain mindful in our thinking, actions, and outward experiences- prompting us to make decisions bringing us inward peace, happiness, and fulfillment. The practice is not merely a sampling of using meditation to be calm _within the moment_ , it is embracing alternative means of remaining well for a lifetime; to be governed by the teachings and philosophies which will always tether your behaviors to humility, humanity, and honor- of yourself, and the collective consciousness around you.

#### Does Holistic Healing Have Any Scientific Merits?

One of the hurdles holistic healing often comes up against is the insufficiency of scientific evidence of its effectiveness. In the scope of the entire spectrum of holistic healing, which includes a medley of means not covered within the expanse of this book, it would be unfair to measure the effectiveness of meditation to say, Feng Shui, without giving each practice its due exploration. Which is to say, discrediting the entire institution of holistic healing as hogwash not only offends the scientist process, it neglects to employ it at all.

Conversely, the practices which have been explored, and have been found to be either effective or not, may be measured in this sense, to an extent. In regards of the means of holistic healing covered in this book, crystal healing, Feng Shui, chakra healing, affirmations, and so on, the science is mixed, as are the practices. It is beyond the scope of this introductory book, which is not meant to serve as a guide to discuss the scientific ramifications of each endeavor, to look to the proven, scientific soundness of each practice.

Studies conducted by The Touchstone Process (a means of deriving, from peer review, whether or not scientific studies are merited), have validated **Reiki Healing** , a type of vibrational medicine (similar to both crystal and chakra healing discussed in this book), as positively impacting both the **biological** and psychological spectrums in humans. The Columbia University of Health Sciences and New York-Presbyterian Hospital both found through blind studies, genuine Reiki healing resulted in the lowering of base line vital signs, as compared to "Reiki healers" who did not practice true reiki techniques. iii Both medical institutions recommended more encompassing research to quantify the measurable biological effects of Reiki.

Innumerable hospitals around the nation are implementing holistic healing in conjunction with traditional modern medicine to improve the quality of life for patients. The American Hospital Association President and CEO, Rich Umbdenstock, released a press release in 2008 maintaining,

"Complementary and alternative medicine has shown great promise in supporting and stimulating healing. It is one of the many tools hospitals look to as they continue to create optimal healing environments for the patients they serve." iv

In the same public announcement, Sita Ananth, lead researcher, is quoted by _Health Forum,_

"Today's patients have better access to health information and are demanding more personalized care. The survey results reinforce the fact patients] want the best [both] traditional and alternative medicine can offer." [v

The survey in reference found 37 percent of hospitals polled throughout the nation offer Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in 2008. 67 percent of hospitals participating in the survey cited "clinical effectiveness" as their governing rational to include alternative treatments into their accredited medical facilities.

Is holistic healing the wave of future treatment into medical practice? It is impossible to say with certainty, but I will go out on a limb and admit, probably not. _However_ , as a means of providing _supplementary support_ , holistic healing prompts emotional, psychological, and spiritual wellbeing of recovery into action, in ways traditional treatment often fails to. In this respect, holistic treatment is essential- the missing link even- to enlivening the catalyst of genuine change; where traditional medications (like Naltrexone for opiate addiction, for instance) serves as the bandage making recovery attainable and readily possible in the foreground, holistic treatment compliments traditional means of success by allowing the spiritual and emotional bodies to flourish.

It is not enough to remain in the endless cycle of big pharma's medication roulette. At some point, we must break free to uncover the essence of true healing, beginning inwardly. Which is not to say medical treatment is not absolutely necessary for a great many of conditions, but it is not the only way- nor should it remain the staple of treatment if it simply serves as a perennial bandage to cover up the heart of an affliction psychologically or physically born.

When given light, purpose, and guidance, the mind has the great capacity to heal all- but we are often afraid to rely on our own means of remedying our inner unrest, because we believe we cannot possibly achieve what medicine cannot- but we forget our psyche, spirit, and actions are directly derived from our mental, emotional, and physical state. We have the power to influence all spectrums by focusing our intent. Energy follows thought.

#### Is All This Stuff in My Head?

Many new to New Age practices and holistic healing find themselves questioning the validity of their experiences once they begin to take effect. A neophyte crystal healer will most always doubt herself when she feels the first twinges of a crystal- thought to be inorganic- come alive in her hand, or emanate a warmth out-measuring the simple touch of stone to flesh. All of us, at some point in time or another, will question whether or not we are entirely mad and imagining the practices of holistic medicine as the desperate fantasy of one longing to recover.

Without the ground of empirical evidence to stand firmly upon, it is difficult to say. But whether crazed, or not, the font bringing peace should not be so easily discarded. We cannot prove the existence of God, and yet, for many, He is there. Although holistic healing is not necessary religious, it is intensely spiritual (and lends itself well to the immersion of prayer, if one so desires it). What cannot be explained through irrefutable evidence based studies, are sometimes trumped by the innate knowing of the human spirit. In the times to come, perhaps we will finally have the burning answers to the questions which seek to dethrone our pursuits to holistic healing. I entreat you to give yourself the right to become the master of your own fate, by testing the theories and practices set before you in this book. Form your own opinions, and do not allow our culture, inherently untrusting, disembark you in a journey with the capability of transforming your perception of yourself, the government of your actions, and the ability to love inwardly projecting to the people around you.

What is felt cannot be dismissed. And sometimes it is this inner knowing- intuition- that is necessary to win the inner conflicts raging inside ourselves.

#### Embracing Eastern Medicine

This book has no intentions of robbing you of traditional sensibilities in regards to addiction treatment, in fact- our objective here is quite the opposite: recovery is made possible by going to rehabilitation and treatment ideally based in harm reduction tactics and cognitive behavioral therapy; these means have proved themselves to be the most effective in conquering the disease of addiction. Holistic healing should always be pursued in combination with traditional means of treatment. Alternative medicine for addiction recovery adds another layer of treatment and rehabilitation to stave off the heartbreak of relapse.

Holistic medicine is not an opportunity to abandon all means of traditional treatment, but seeks to make the effectiveness of it stronger and more rewarding. During recovery in rehabilitation, recovered substance abusers embrace new means of coping with stress, anxiety, and depression. Holistic healing is one of those approaches to prevent instances of relapse, and helps one to redefine themselves after struggling to stay afloat substance use. Eastern medicine does not then shun traditional treatment, nor disavow the practice of medicine, _it works in tandem with it- assuring all avenues of relapse are mended._ Holistic medicine confronts the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery. Something naltrexone cannot deign to address- _yet without it, these channels of healing and transformation are forever lost, should the storm of addiction not abate._

This is the principal reason holistic healing espouses modern medicine: one without the other does not have the means to impart everlasting salvation- as no two approaches of treatment singularly achieve what the other masters. Reigning in brain chemistry gone awry from years of substance abuse can only be achieved with traditional means of medication. But what medication cannot do to restore spirituality, or emotive intelligence, holistic healing achieves. Both aspects of remedy are necessary to cement recovery. In terms of embracing Eastern Medicine, it is not crucial you should begin practicing at a specific period during recovery, whether you have not yet delved into rehabilitation, are currently undergoing treatment, or have graduated from rehab, eastern medicine can be readily applied, and make motion of your continued recovery.

#### Self-Actualization through Holistic Medicine

"What a man can be, he must be."  
Abraham Maslow

Achieving self-actualization is the driving force allowing many to succeed in overcoming addiction. Our ambitions are achieved when we embrace the concept of self-actualization; the pursuit of manifesting all in which we may become. It is not enough to simply pursue our desires, we must strive to fulfill them vigorously, and with our entire being if we are to truly reanimate ourselves.

Holistic medicine is meant to draw upon the underlying springs of revitalization inherent to you, seizing upon the things you have always wanted to achieve and accomplish. Setting goals to fulfill the passions of your heart is one approach to bringing about the change of recovery. Holistic healing sets in motion the energy you release into the universe, and helps the mind and body connect with the etheric energies entwining us together. It is through this universal tether we are enabled to be all that we can. We are unable to achieve self-actualization should our hearts remain closed to those around us, and perhaps more importantly, ourselves.

We frequently stand in our own way to achievement or accomplishment, undermining our victories, and discrediting personal strengths. Holistic medicine helps to restore balance internally by celebrating the individuals we are- despite behaviors which may force us into insatiable guilt or shame. By letting go of the past we are able to forge on to create the future we were destined to have. This is not to say achieving self-actualization is not possible without the assistance of holistic healing; alternative medicine is a means in which one may venture to harmonize the song of his heart with the divinity swirling all around us, if we are open to it.

Alternative medicine gives us an immediate means to recognize our own spirits' as worthy of existence. It is common among those struggling with substance use disorders to feel dejected, displaced, and shunned within the walls of their own bodies. Holistic healing dismantles our inner self hatred, allowing us to focus on constructing realities we may derive pride from. Entrapping oneself to the tombs of regret or self-odium serves only to cement substance use disorders. These are the inner feeling which most commonly usurp one's ability to overcome addiction. Razing the firmament of self-hatred is _the only way_ to achieve hemostasis.

When we hold ourselves back with negative emotions, inner doubt, and the inability to see worth in our physical, emotional, and environmental wellbeing, we block any means of progressing beyond our current states. To achieve self-actualization one must embrace the powers of transformation, he must bask with the radiance of inner knowing, and be prepared to seek the balming words his soul is meant to hear, if not from his own lips, than those of others (perhaps in therapy or rehabilitation).

When we have liberated ourselves from the pernicious thoughts and ideas equating our sense of worth to dirt, we can truly fulfill ourselves. For innumerable reasons we hold ourselves back, some inhibitions are within our control- and yet we erroneously attribute ourselves as the harbinger of fell circumstance. Some of the many feelings and emotions barring us from achieving success in all things, including recovery, stem from the inability to: derive worth of our actions, the fear of success, guilt others around you will not also succeed in their wants, the belief one's socioeconomic status forever limits their ability to change their environment, the belief it is too late to pursue the desires one has harbored since star-struck childhood, or the seeming improbability of success.

Akin to addiction, there are as many doors leading to substance use disorders, as there are reasons we intentionally sabotage ourselves from embracing our birthrights we are to achieve on Earth. The absence of these intimate sources of pain do not in any way make your plight less worthy than others.

#### Spirituality Is a Necessary Component of Recovery

Although holistic healing is not a religious pursuit, discovering spirituality translates into the acceptance of living for a purpose, and fulfilling a higher calling. Finding spirituality will help you interject meaning into our life, which may not have been readily apparent. There are many reasons we lose sight of the fact we are a part of something larger than ourselves, whether we find this to be true in our social relations with the people and nations around us, or in a religious sense, where we are all ultimately connected to each other. Our emotional health and wellbeing hinges on the acceptance, and practice of spirituality augmenting one's chances of recovering from addiction more readily- while preventing relapse. Once we find our purpose in this life, we focus on taking steps to achieving it, as opposed to continually medicating ourselves for the emptiness.

There comes a time where getting high is no longer about the euphoria of one's substance of choice- it almost always starts out with the intention of numbing some other pain, and slowly maligns our biology and psyche to rely on normalcy. Your new state of normality lies within the innermost regions of yourself that is not yet accessible if you have not awakened your inner purpose. The ultimate ends of this text is to give you actionable solutions to employ in your everyday life to achieve emotional, psychological, and spiritual wellbeing.

#### But what is spirituality?

Spirituality is our innermost sense of purpose, balance, and an affinity for the energies in motion around us. When we are in sync with our spirituality we are able to flow freely through all means of existence, and bear the hurdles life throws at us in grace and acceptance, allowing us to spin misfortune into unexpected treasure. When we rail against the tides of spirituality, every obstacle threatens to render our ability to cope asunder, that we may bow and break under the weight of emotional insufficiency.

The tribulations of life have left many stranded from themselves, sneering at the thought of spirituality- weary of hope, they easily forsake it in lieu of simple survival. When we are tapped into our fight or flight instincts, we will not spare the time necessary to establish things that will substantiate our souls. We simply keep on pushing on. **But this is not enough to shed the brambles of addiction, because largely, abusing addictive substances become the mechanism in which life is made bearable.** Yet this feigned reality conflicts with the medical assurance substance use disorders foment permanent physical and psychological degradation, the development of several cancers, psychiatric disorders, overdose, and death.

Overcoming addiction then transmutes from a means of coping with everyday survival, to literally surviving. But we must do more than survive to reap the benefits of this Earth. Our potential is the single most compelling indwelling source of recovery. When we take our potential into the foremost of our minds, the sheer excitement elicited from the things we were born with a proclivity, enliven our spirits and make us remember what it is to be in control of the course of our lives.

#### How It Works: Alternative Medicine and Relapse Prevention

Possessing a healthy curiosity of how holistic healing will have an impact on your life places you in the foremost capacity to reap all of the rewards and benefits of the endeavor. Alternative medicine above all should restore inner peace and serenity, by helping you remember you are worthy of your own love, and will help you dive into the crevices of yourself to clear out the clutter, and make way for the illumination of your spirit.

Tangibly holistic healing will help you thwart depression, quiet anxieties, and revel in the marvel of yourself. You will again learn how to appreciate all of the unique things which make you invaluable to the universe. Even if addiction forces us to act in ways we would have never deigned before, if we take our past and let it gracefully slip away, we construct new lives for ourselves. This process may not happen overnight, and perhaps through study of holistic healing salvation will be revealed to truly bring about the closure necessary to move on from the dark times of your life. You may discover the bridges burned among family and loved ones may be salvageable after an honest reflection and an earnest effort to rectify ill tidings.

This is not to say holistic healing will confirm your own perception of yourself as someone who is, essentially, a despicable person- in fact it is quite the opposite. However, during the process of transformation and change, it is necessary to examine how your actions have brought you to the place in life where you now find yourself. Learning to embrace new means of coping with life's stressors is not the only means in which holistic healing offers: you must come to terms with the things of the past, embrace them, and part ways to truly move on in the recovery process.

#### The Remedies at a Glance

**Crystal Healing:** Embracing the minerals and crystals of the earth to align their electromagnetic properties to ours, enticing inward change by working with the "Gaia's Bones."  
**Feng Shui:** The positioning of objects and introduction of certain elements into our environments allowing us to be surrounded in a space that is conducive to our emotional, mental, and physical health.  
**Chakra Healing:** The manipulation and direct alignment of the seven major energy centers in the body, governing the aspects of our foundation, sexuality, creativity, ability to give and receive love, communicate, trust our intuition, and feel connected with the universe.  
**Daily Affirmations:** Daily incantations to help drive our actions to purpose and relieve the many aliments of recovery- setting our minds to the tasks we hope to complete within this life, _now._

**Oracle Decks:** Allows access to vibrational influence and messages from card meanings.  
**Meditation:** Accesses indwelling consciousness through silent, but active contemplation.

**Tea Reading:** Improves memory, offers insight into ancient Chinese philosophies.

FreeImages.com /Billy Alexander

_Crystal Healing_

###  What Is Crystal Healing?

Crystal healing and gemstone lore have existed since ancient times, dating back to the Egyptians and royalty of the feudal world. The revitalization of the "New Age" movement has reawakened our thirst for alternative means of wellness. Crystal healing has bloomed into the manifold of the art, and is one of the most common, easily accessible, effective, and wholesome means to begin your holistic journey.

Crystal healing is simply the practice of using crystals and minerals for their metaphysical properties as they are germane to your mental, emotional, and physical needs. Many new age practitioners utilize crystal healing in conjunction with other forms of alternative medicine, including meditation, chakra healing, yoga, mindful thinking, and Feng Shui. Healing stones and crystals lend themselves well to many daily routines because they are easily attainable and exist in many forms conducive to the aliments of the heart and mind.

The art of crystal healing can be learned by anyone with an open willingness to explore the vibrations of crystals and minerals. Crystal therapy is not limited to time-tested masters. Self-study of crystal therapy is entirely capable of giving you enough working knowledge to successfully practice crystal healing on your own, and with others. There are many types of healing specific to crystal use including the use of gem essences and elixirs, the laying of stones, wearing crystal jewelry for their metaphysical benefits, and the careful construction of crystal grids.

Crystal healing does not subscribe itself to any one religion, as crystal therapy is not a religious pursuit but a spiritual journey. For our purposes in addiction treatment, many people in recovery have turned to the veneration of crystals to guide them through the various stages of recovery. Because there are stones with vibrations suitable to treat nearly all causes of the roots of addiction, including depression, anxiety, communication difficulties, low self-esteem, anger, and a want of purpose or life calling, many are firmly taken to healing with stones.

Furthermore, there are crystals which can help allay medical conditions when coupled with traditional means of medical treatment, including hyperactivity, depression, anxiety, liver problems, and pain. It is not for us to say healing crystals have the power to immediately remedy any condition in need of redress- in truth, the opposite is certain. Crystals align the energies around us, attuning our needs with the suspended planes of momentum around us. They remind our subtle etheric bodies to remain motivated and in continual progression of our ultimate goals and ambitions- whether that is expressed in the attendance of a delayed doctor's appointment or relinquishment of past events.

Some crystals are thought to help recovering users from using specific addictive substances and fight cravings by appealing to the underlying causes of drug use. For instance, if one were to use cocaine to feel energized, or confident enough to socialize, we might select carnelian, known for lending vitality and energy, coupled with red jasper for self-assurance.

Crystals assist in clearing our minds of negativity by raising- or attuning,- our vibrations, drowning out the noise around us, while allowing our mind and spirit to be influenced by vibrations necessary towards progressing recovery, along with our psychological, spiritual, and physical health. Energy manifests all things tangible and intangible for all creatures.

#### The Idea Behind Crystal Healing

The theory behind crystal healing relies on the fact we are all unique composites of energy, continually interacting, reacting, and transforming in direct response of our communication. The effectiveness of crystal healing lies within the interaction of the energies emanating from of healing crystals, in direct response to our own vibrations. Those in want of critical spiritual, psychological, and emotional sustenance may begin regaining their vitality from exposing themselves to minerals and crystals specific to their aliments in all facets of existence.

Healing crystals allow us to bask in the vibrations conducive to manifesting a desired result; like attracts like. Modern medicine employs the use of crystals and minerals. Naturally occurring crystals from the Earth are piezoelectric, allowing electricity and light to be harnessed by common medical machinery, including ultrasound machines. World renowned Crystal Healer and prolific writer, Judy Hall states in _The Crystal Bible,_ "Crystals work through vibration, rebalancing the bio-magnetic sheath that surrounds and interpenetrates the physical body, activating] linkage points to the chakra that regulate the body's vibrational stasis." [vi

In essence, crystals transform our atmosphere, facilitating environments wherein one's desires may be attained. Yet more pressing than our desires, is the necessity of recovery; inviting crystal healing into your life is a powerful way to prompt the spirituality necessary to help transmute active substance abuse into inner reflection of the polarities of depression, anxiety, and anger to peace, calm, and self-assurance. True recovery, bringing long-term sobriety, addresses the entire spectrum of the human experience, not merely recovery in the traditional institution of rehabilitation. Crystal therapy helps attune you to achieve the goals determined by yourself, allowing you to abstain from activities no longer serving the progression of your psychological, physical, and spiritual development. Assuming a role to actively influence the energies around you places you in control of your fate and the emotional and physical environments you surround yourself in.

####

#### A Brief Note on the Chakra System

I have chosen to include crystal healing as the first avenue of interest on your holistic journey because it is one of the easiest healing arts to implement in your everyday life. Some may argue meditation is simpler (and perhaps more effective) than crystal healing, but I believe the tangible energy healing crystals emit promote the atmosphere conducive to change; we may not be ready to meditate, but certain healing crystals will enable us to open our minds to the possibility of meditation, recovery, and other healing ventures. Crystals have the potential to elucidate our outward ails inward, and redress hidden causes of addiction gently.

To fully appreciate and experience the inexhaustible potency of crystal healing, possessing a working knowledge of the chakra system is ideal- although, in order to benefit from crystal healing, one needs no working knowledge of the chakra system. However, neglecting this aspect of holistic healing will do you no favors, and leaves measurable gaps of understanding once you progress beyond the newness of healing arts.

In brief, there are seven major chakra points throughout the body, commonly referred to as subtle bodies (or fonts of energy). The chakra points, traveling from the base of the toes to the top of the head are: the root chakra, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye, and crown. Each chakra governs certain emotions, and during the course of our lives our chakras can become unbalanced- either underactive, or hyperactive. Addiction, both chemically and psychologically, maligns our spiritual equilibrium, emotional wellbeing, and physical health- thereby wreaking havoc throughout the chakra system. For an in-depth look at the entire chakra spectrum please turn to the chapter on Chakra Healing.

#### Modern Uses of Crystal Healing and Addiction Recovery

If the art of crystal healing seems awkward to apply in everyday life, you will be surprised establishing a routine every day to take time to work with the crystal energies welcomed into your life becomes second nature. Simply placing crystals in your working, living, or recreational spaces will allow their energies to positively benefit you wholeheartedly. Merely wearing a pendant, or carrying a tumbled stone on your person will grant you the energetic benefits each stone has to offer- even if you forget about its presence. (However, remaining mindful of its influence enlivens their effect.)

As I have mentioned previously, it is erroneous to believe crystal therapy alone will help you turn the tides of addiction. On your journey, you must be clear in your intent; any type of energy, or vibrational medicine, is dependent upon one's will to make change tangible in their waking lives. Energy follows thought. The energy we send out to the universe inevitably returns to us threefold. To benefit from crystal healing you must take responsive action to make the changes necessary for recovery. Whether that is remaining in treatment, and using holistic healing as an additional means of recovery, or after treatment in conjunction with therapy to stay on the right path. Crystals, and their beautiful energies, cannot replace sound guidance from addiction professionals; healing stones merely facilitate the inward environments within us to allow the process to continue, begin, or solidify the teachings you absorb.

If you believe you can overcome substance use with merely holistic healing you are anchoring yourself with an acute disadvantage, and may endanger the wellbeing of yourself and others. Allowing holistic healing into your life should help substantiate your psychological, emotional, and spiritual mental states- traditional means of recovery are meant to safeguard your physical wellbeing- you should allow it to. There exists no one answer for addiction treatment. We must invite restorative waves as they come, and ebb with the remedies allowing us to fulfill our immediate potentials. Exploring a singular means of recovery will not expose you to the continuum of possibilities to curtail substance abuse.

Successfully using crystal therapy to your advantage for the means of addiction recovery, and use in the manifestation of your aspirations outside of recovery, demands having a working knowledge of cleansing your crystals and dedicating specimens for the purpose you wish them to fulfill. Although there need not be fanciful dedications of the crystals you work with, learning to sense their energies, or chi as it is sometimes called, is essential in helping you connect to the inner wells of your feelings, and creates an environment where your intuition reigns, tapping into the universal power surrounding us all.

Experiencing crystals and their energetic state of being is one of the innumerable spiritual aspects of the practice. Becoming aware of the universe, energies, and forces around us is essential to understand which aspects of our lives are in need of transformation, relinquishment, and nourishment. Accepting the notion of feeling energy in our Western world may sound short of hogwash, but allowing yourself to experience your senses with your full heart open to the possibilities of becoming part of something larger, is one of the essential elements of crystal healing. Those masters of music trained to detect every pitch and measure of sound have attuned their sense of hearing beyond average development; the sixth sense is the same underdeveloped resource at your fingertips.

The crystals and stones we work with on a regular basis become our familiars. We form a working relationship with our crystals as we might a companion animal or guide. In exchange for their upkeep, cleansing, and treasure, they gift us with the energies necessary to transform our lives. It is beyond the scope of this book to explain the theories surrounding the consciousness of crystals, _Crystal Awareness_ by Catherine Bowman, _Crystal Power, Crystal Healing_ by Michael Gienger, and _The Book of Stones: Who They Are and What they Teach_ by Robert Simmons give excellent treatments on the subject. Essentially, it is believed crystals, akin to other beings which are energy based, are ethereally aware and suited for particular people in specific instances or emotional states. Like people, it is common to outgrow a healing stone once you have learned all that you can from the energies it has to offer. Graduating from crystal to crystal is expected and encouraged. It is not atypical to use only one stone at a time. Many stones complement each other when used appropriately. (Just as people, some stones do not work well together.)

#### Choosing the Best Crystals for You

I mentioned crystals have frequencies (or minds) of their own. More often than most, crystals will call out to _you_ \- you do not necessarily pick them. When you traverse a metaphysical store to browse healing crystals, you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of healing stones available for you to work with. Yet soon after you immerse yourself in the search you will begin resonating with senses yet untouched, feeling the crystals around you without physical contact; most doubt their initial experiences to excitement-feigned insight. I implore you welcome the experience in its rawness without internal sensor. Exposing yourself to vibration and remaining aware of them will train this sense. You do not have to know which stone you are looking for initially to ultimately choose the perfect crystal for your immediate circumstances. As rain to drought, we are intuitively enraptured in what we lack in ourselves. (In the coming sections we will explore the best stones to use for particular substance use disorders, and stones excellent for common psychological aliments solidifying one's propensity for substance use and addiction.)

Selecting a crystal to use for healing is an active process of looking for a partner in healing. When choosing a crystal, consider how the crystal makes you feel. Note any impressions you may receive from the stone. Maybe you feel an immediate unexplained wave of calm, or a burst of unexplained joviality. Do not try to rationalize your feelings too much, as this can awaken your self-doubt and disrupt the process. It all comes down to- yes- how the stones makes you _feel_. Beyond this, the communication of your vibration to the next will be decisive aspect of your initial impression. You may be more drawn to a physically less attractive stone, but if it is the perfect fit, do not second guess yourself because your specimen is not as aesthetically appealing as others.

 J

Finger Dowsing by Alexandrea Holder & JessiRae

udy Hall's method of crystal dowsing is a simple way to see if a crystal's energy will work well with yours. Introducing the method in _The Encyclopedia of Crystals_ , the process is described in the figure below: vii

When I first encountered the finger dowsing method of crystal selection, I was skeptical. Surely I could easily break the circle of my fingers any time I wanted during the exercise. I thought finger dowsing would hold little value to my experiences with crystal healing. I was wrong. Crystals destined to work with you will not allow the circle of your fingers to break, whereas those crystals which are not suitable for use during dowsing will easily break apart the careful circle your fingers construct again and again. It is fascinating. It was not until several dozen crystals glided through my hands that I was able to experience my fingers pull apart almost instantly form a specimen that was not intended for my use.

To crystal dowse, simply hold your intertwined fingers above the crystal in question, and pull.

#### Cleansing Crystals for Use

Cleansing crystals is a critical part of practicing effective stone therapy. Crystals are recorders of information- it is quartz crystal which allows our computers to store data. In _The Hidden Messages in Water_ by Masaru Emoto, Japanese scientists prove water, much like crystals, is able to store and retain information of thoughts, feelings, and emotions:

"The realization that water has the ability to copy information has changed my life . . . doctors would not even consider the possibility that water by itself had healing capabilities."

"In 1988, the French scientist Jacques Benveniste undertook an experiment to test the basic principles of homeopathy. He diluted a medicine with water to the point where the medicine was no longer detectable by clinical means, and then he discovered that this dilution had the same effect on patients as the undiluted medicine." viii

When you handle a crystal, your emotions, impressions, and otherwise self-contained energetic smog- whether benevolent or not- remains. That is more than the physicality of the fingerprint you leave behind. Crystals and healing stones absorb energy every time anyone handles them. When you come into possession of a crystal, whether it is gifted, purchased, or found, the energetic residues of whoever has handled them will remain. Before you begin working with your crystals, and after you are finished working with them during each session, it is imperative to cleanse your crystal.

Many crystal healers simply smudge their gemstones with white sage. Sage is known universally as an herb which dispels negativity and bad energy. Native Americans are sometimes credited with introducing the metaphysical properties of sage to our Westernized world. (Did you know some people will not even leave the house if they have not smudged themselves?) A 2006 review in the _Journal of Ethnopharmacology_ researchers found "ambient smoke," the type produced by smudging, "is air purifying and that smoke-based remedies are highly effective in that they offer rapid delivery to the brain, and more efficient absorption by the body."ix Moreover, smudging kills bacteria in the air, up to 94% when coupled with wood and "medicinal herbs" in a closed-room environment, when allowed to smoke for a 24 hour period, as reported in a 2007 study in the _Journal of Enthopharmacology._ x

To smudge a crystal simply take a smoldering bundle of sage (also called a smudging stick) and bathe the stone in the smoke emanating from the plant. The smoke will cleanse the crystal and prepare the stone for metaphysical work. Smudging is the most common form of cleansing crystals, but it is not the only way cleansing is achieved.

##### _Placing your stones on a bed of Citrine will cleanse them from negative energies._

##### _Placing your stones on a bed of Citrine will cleanse them from negative energies._

[Cite your source here.]

Copper is for wonderful conducting energy, and will empower the energy of the crystals used in your pendants.

[Cite your source here.]

Salt is well known to have banishing and cleansing properties. You may cleanse your crystals by placing them in a salt dish overnight. This method appeals to those who are drawn to the element of Earth. (Or maybe you have more salt than you do sage.) You may also purify your crystals in the light of the moon, by running them under water, or charging them in the sun. Be careful about submerging certain crystals into water, as this may dissolve them; conversely, it is not advisable to place vibrant crystals in the sun for any length of time, as this may dull their luster.

When cleansing crystals you must state your intent openly, and visualize all negative energies accumulating within your healing stones dissipating. This initial introduction to working with energy helps prepare you for the crystal work you will undergo. Many visualize black swirling energy dissipating from their stones until they intuitively feel their crystal has been sufficiently cleansed. Others imagine their crystals absorbing bright, white light. Feeling the difference between a stone in need of cleansing and a "purified" crystal becomes easier to discern in time, but as a rule of thumb, if you feel uncomfortable holding a stone, or feel the stone is "dirty-" even if it is physically clean, that is a sure sign of the need to cleanse the stone.

The more practice you have with cleansing stones, the easier it is to get a feel for when they need attention. As a guiding suggestion, you should cleanse your crystals every time you come into possession of one, and every time you are finished working with them. If you allow others to handle your healing crystals, you ensure to cleanse them, as their energy footprints will remain on the stone until you do.

#### Charging Crystals for Recovery: Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Self Esteem & Beyond

Your journey with crystals is an expression of self-discovery, and in your pursuit the healing stones you employ become your companions. It is essential you treat them as such, and have mutual respect for their potential for transformation within your life. However, crystals do not merely manifest what wish them to. We have to guide their energies to suit our immediate needs. We do this in way of charging crystals for specific purposes.

The charging- or dedication- of a crystal can be as complex as a drawn out ceremony in dedication to the metaphysical properties you wish to wield, which for example, may be to attain inner peace. Or, dedicating your crystal for healing work can be as simple as holding your stone and visualizing the outcome you wish to manifest. Neither method is more effective than the other. You must go with your gut instinct, and always do what feels natural, even if it is contrary to something you read on the subject matter. Healing is always subjective, and it is essential you do not allow someone else's methods to limit your experience with holistic healing. Discovering other techniques and approaches to holistic healing is encouraged, and makes the art form beautifully eclectic.

To charge your crystal for healing work, sit in a well-lit place and visualize yourself attaining the objective you wish to achieve. This may be to prevent relapse, to successfully complete rehab, whisk depression away, or find motivation and passion to revitalize your life. Treating substance use disorders with crystal therapy will ultimately come down to addressing the underlying causes of addiction, allaying bouts of depression, anxiety, and self-doubt. If you continually self-medicate because you are unhappy with your weight, or how you perceive yourself, using crystals to boost your self-esteem and how you perceive yourself is essential.

When dedicating (or charging) your crystals for use, always keep what you wish to manifest in the forefront of your mind. Think of dedicating your crystal as a form of meditation: it is your request to the universe to overcome the hurdles presented before you. The process helps your mind, body, and spirit set in motion the energies around you to make tangible your intent. This may help you open up to opportunities and experiences you may not have been open to beforehand. Remember: crystals do not simply fruit absent nourishment, they create the circumstances, in way of energy, to attract success.

##  Crystal Healing for Addiction by Substance

This text is mainly concerned with treating the underlying causes of addiction treatment, which is why there is a substantial section outlining stones and crystals which will help to allay the psychological roots of most addictions- yet it would be negligent to exclude the work of Donna Cunningham and Andre Ramer in _Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions_ xi. Akin to Michael Gienger's _Healing Crystal First Aid Manual_ ,xii Cunningham and Ramer launched crystal healing into entirely new directions with their study into the validity of tapping into the following crystals to treat specific substance use disorders.

I have expanded upon their work, and reworked my own insights into the potential of these healing crystals to be used in relation to treating substance use disorders. Please keep in mind, these crystals are not a ready replacement for therapy, but help to align the correct energies to help recovery, and prevent relapse.

### Heroin

**Lepidolite:  
** Uses: Self-love, breaking poor habits, PTSD, Manic Depression **  
**Lepidolite is the bringer of hope in dark times and promotes trust, serenity, and acceptance. As a stone of transformation, the crystal encourages self-love, patience, and optimism (all traits of successful recovery). The crystal is said to help stabilize emotions, especially for those with PTSD and manic depression.

 Lepidolite is masterful in treating addiction, as the stone helps its user to abscond from behaviors perpetuating the physical and psychological anguish of addiction. A crystal of changes, Lepidolite helps to guide the consciousness to the manifestation of aspirations long laid aside. Bringing balance to disquieted minds, Lepidolite stills mental and emotional dependency. Those with bi-polar disorder can benefit from the presence of lithium. xiii

Meditate in the presence of Lepidolite with recovery in mind to help dedicate your mind and body to the tenants of recovery without compromise. Many in recovery struggle with letting go of their substance of choice, because they do not know how else to cope with their feelings. Crystal healing with Lepidolite helps to open up avenues of coping skills, as Lepidolite energizes all chakras, encouraging your ambitions forward to attainment.

To use Lepidolite you may place the crystal directly on scars left behind from years of abuse. Close your eyes and visualize the stone casting a protective sheath around your entire body. When you feel taxed with cravings, turn to this stone to help remind you of your promise of recovery. Placing Lepidolite on the crown chakra (the top of your head) will help align all of your energy centers and cement healthy progression to recovery throughout the entire body.

**Rose Quartz:** **  
**Uses: Self-love, universal love, emotional healing, acceptance, inner peace, embracing and giving love

Among crystal healers, rose quartz is the universal stone of love, and helps people overcome trauma by teaching them how to open their hearts and communicate with those around them. The pink crystal is an expert in emotional healing, and is said to help soothe a troubled mind, bringing about calm. _R_ ose quartz as a stone of creativity, encouraging recovering addicts to rediscover their love of the arts, music, and writing.xiv

 Rose quartz as the master of the heart, with the affinity to re-open the heart chakra, essential in opening up oneself to universal, inner, and outer love. Learning how to love yourself again during and after recovery may be one of the most difficult struggles. Rose Quartz will help to remind you that you are _worth_ recovery. You deserve to live a happy life, and you are capable of giving and receiving love, without fear.

In dismantling addiction, rose quartz will help you to address the painful underbelly of the disease, which leads many to the brambles of abuse in the first place. Rose Quartz allows us to dredge up the emotional toxins we have kept secret from ourselves, and those around us- allowing the open expression of inner conflicts. Carry rose quartz with you to remind yourself you are worthy of love. When we are bereft nourishment, or if we have only been in relationships where the expression of love was used as a means of power or control, we ourselves become entirely blocked off from the heart chakra; a possible reason for promiscuity in the never-ending search for love.

Rose Quartz helps us to overcome the obstacles placed before us from dire circumstances, including sexual trauma. The restorative energies of this crystal will restore balance and peace in the aftermath of travesty. To use Rose Quartz affix the stone to a pendant laying on the heart. You may activate the heart chakra while visualizing loving energy beaming into your chest through pink rays of light emanating from your stone. Feel free to trail the crystal along your entire body if it feels right. Pay close attention to areas which seem sore- look for something that almost feels like an "inward aching."

If you have difficulty with visualizing any of the elements throughout this book, try to simplify the visualizations. You are always safe with visualizing bright, white light in replacement of many things, especially in terms of cleansing or charging crystals.

### Marijuana

**C  arnelia** **n:**

Uses: Strength, energy, vitality, motivation

A form of quartz, carnelian is said to make its users feel energized and in control of the circumstances around them. As for the journey of recovery, Carnelian helps us to make the choices speeding recovery to fruition. Cutting away the inability to face past trauma head-on, Carnelian helps us find the closure we need to progress forward, and restores our rightful role as the master of our own fate.

Carnelian severs our penchant for pessimism, and revitalizes hope, optimism, and kindled spirits. In times of immeasurable doubt, hold Carnelian to help reestablish your commitment to sobriety. If you suffer from lack of motivation, or drained spirits, Carnelian is the energy drink of crystal healing. In addition to helping spur recovery, Carnelian helps to dull exaggerated anger in times when emotional outbursts are not merited.

Carnelian as a resource to restore weak memory. xv Inhibited working memory is attributed to the development of many substance use disorders. Enlisting the help of Carnelian can help solidify your efforts, and improve your chances of recovery.

Azurite:

Uses: Stimulates the mind, clarity of thought, improves memory

The Egyptians regarded azurite as a stone of mystery, while the Native Americans used the treasure to connect with their spirit guardians xvi. Modern day crystal workers regard the stone as a means of awakening the intellect, and opening the mind to new perspectives- a quality some marijuana users have claimed the substance to achieve, no?

 Azurite forces us to realize the connection between the mind and body, and elucidates our thoughts directly affecting our physical actions; if we run from our inner emotions, developing substance use disorders are more likely- as is relapse in the face of treatment. Azurite helps to keep our mind purposeful, and ever questioning. Promoting healing waves of stress relief, and immersion into activities encouraging self-expression, Azurite should be entreated by anyone with a substance use disorder- not just those addicted to marijuana.

Alike Carnelian, Azurite helps to restore memory, and in doing so manifests the physical aspect attributed with helping one recover from addiction altogether. _The Encyclopedia of Crystals_ cites Azurite as beneficial for brain structure- directly responding to the long term damage the brain suffers from exposure to addictive substances. In the case of marijuana: massive cell death.

A zurite may help to prompt the recovery process on both a psychological and physical sense. In reprograming the mind through cognitive behavioral therapy, Azurite helps to restructure both the physical and mental planes. Also helpful for detoxification, carry Azurite throughout the entire recovery process.

### Methamphetamine

Ruby:

Uses: Vitality, Protection, Detoxification, Grounding, love

Perhaps more so than Carnelian, Ruby helps to energize its wearers. A suitable energetic substitute to methamphetamine -and other amphetamines- this crystal of action helps to stimulate increased awareness of how our decisions impact others- a difficult concept to grasp during the pangs of addiction. Instead of seeking the harmful high from stimulant drugs, there are several crystals which serve to grant boosts of energy without harm. When you feel cravings coming on for meth, or a similarly derived substance, channel all of the energy your cravings are draining from you into the restorative facets of a brilliant crimson Ruby to ground yourself and adornment of vitality sought.

Ruby heralds detoxification properties, which can help in cleansing the body from harmful addictive substances in the beginning stages of rehabilitation and recovery. Additionally, Ruby helps attune your mind to the present and set goals for the future. Ruby anchors wasted energy and channels it into use for progressing the healing process. xvii

If you are having a difficult time channeling your excess energy into expressive ventures, and find yourself continually unable to tap into the creative force dwelling within you, Ruby can help you identify your latent potential, and craft an ideal plan to make use of every last drop of it. Meditating with Ruby, or even sitting quietly, and taking the impressions the stone offers is an effective way to elucidate what your intuition already knows.

 **Amber** **:**

Uses: Happiness, Healing, Self-love, harmony warmth

A blessing of unending joy, Amber is the source many are drawn to, as it entices a sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction. Amber acts as a catalyst for self-healing.xviii In the battle against addiction and self-harm, Amber helps to remind the wearer of inner worth, and uproots the forgotten. Amber bestows its wearer with an increased sense of self and wellbeing. Cleansing disease from the body, you may wield its power to help eliminate the disease of addiction both psychologically and physically. xix

As I am sure you are well aware, Amber is not a traditional "crystal," as the substance is fossilized tree resin. The origin of Amber infuses the power totem with aspects of grounding Earth and wood elements. Wear Amber in times when you feel as if you may abandon your commitment to sobriety- Amber will help pull you back into the gaiety of the journey.  
Cocaine

 **Selenite** **:**

Uses: Protection of the home, calm, dissipates negative energy, uproots harmful behaviors

Selenite promotes honesty and mental calm and derives its name from the moon, teaching users how to dispel negativity inward and outward by relying on intuition. xx The crystal helps users maintain happy relationships with loved ones and friends, bringing harmony and light in times of darkness. Crystal healers use selenite to remove negative energy from the body and environments. Many feature large specimens of Selenite in the home to safeguard peaceful environments.

In terms of healing cocaine addiction, Selenite reminds us to look introspectively to the causes of the disease. _The Encyclopedia of Crystals_ attributes Selenite as a powerful conductor of emotions, helping to place the past within the context of the future, in avoiding similar situations. xxi Selenite helps us to disperse negative feelings and emotions.

Uprooting submerged feelings from the depths of our minds and heart, Selenite helps us identify what the underlying causes of addiction are. Coupled with therapy, Selenite helps to keep discussions with therapists and addiction specialists moving forward to help with healing- as opposed to causing more damage.

In my own experiences with therapy (granted I was in my teenage years), my sessions only incensed penchants for self-mutilation, because I did not know how to handle the emotions brought forth in my sessions. Often I would sit across from the therapist trembling and reticent- wasting an enormous amount of money, time, and the potential for healing. It is essential to undergo therapy when you are able to circumvent the emotional tides which are _supposed_ to happen. Crystals can help you summon environments and inner peace to make recovery a reality. They did for me.

 **Aventurine** **:**

Uses: Invites benevolent energy, good luck, invites success

Known by many as a fairy stone, aventurine facilitates benevolent energy promoting luck and merriment. Crystal healers use the stone to invite new opportunities for success. More importantly, aventurine helps break habits, and establishes healthy perseverance.

Aventurine may help to repair neurotransmitters damaged from continued addiction and substance abuse. Neuroplasticity with time prompts the regeneration of the organic neurotransmitters responsible for regulating our emotions, behaviors, and internal workings, both physically and psychologically. xxii

If you are having a difficult time identifying the cause of addiction, or the sources of unhappiness in your life, Aventurine will serve as the clarity you seek. Working in tandem with the heart chakra, Aventurine helps to quickly associate the things in your life that are unhealthy and harmful to the progression of recovery.

### Alcohol

A methyst:

Uses: Clarity of thought, connecting with divinity, sobriety, inward peace

Amethyst in Greek actually translates into "not drunk." As such, amethyst is touted among crystal healers as the ultimate go-to for addiction to any substance. The crystaline royalty stone is a favorite among recovering alcoholics too. In crystal healing amethyst helps bring its users closer to their own spirituality, bestowing wisdom, and whisking away negativity with divine wisdom. Meditating with this stone will cleanse and recharge the body, mind, and spirit.

 Yet one of the more powerful boons of amethyst is its ability to help promote healthy functioning of essential neurotransmitters- suffering immeasurable damage from the brambles of addiction. Amethyst serves as the guide to help many to the planes of recovery, and gives a glimpse of wholeness, perception, and realization of the potential entombed by an untreated substance use disorder. Amethyst helps encourage willful decision, marking the difference between passive recovery and active participation. Serving to remind us of our universal calling, Amethyst helps to inspire spirtuality and wholeness of the mind.

Celestite:

Uses: Spirituality, calm, stress relief, the arts, communication

Among one of my favorite stones is celestite. The oceanic faces of the crystal emanates a soothing aura that helps aid relaxation and banishes stress. Because addiction is caused by underlying trauma, and an inability to cope with stress, Celesite helps to quell our inner demons, and makes our course of action plain as day. Celesitie connects us to divine energy, and encourages earnest pursuit in the arts.

According to Healing Crystals and Gemstones celestite is revered for its healing power, and teaches us how to bring mental calm and clarity amid chaos and disorder of the mind and body. xxiii The blue-bodied calms anxiety, reduces stress, and promotes communication.

In coming into possesion of a beautiful Ceslestite geode, I have experienced first hand the dedicated determination Celestite imparts- but its affects are beyond renewed inner strength. Celestite helps to rouse the intellect and stimulates your need to fulfill whatever it is you are destined to do. Celestite will fill hollow emptiness with an energized calling and invigoration for adventure.

### Synthetic Drugs

Synthetic drugs appear to be one of the more difficult substances to understand, because of their sheer number and ever growing propensity to rapidly develop and change.

**Malachite** **:**

Uses: Physical and mental healing, peace of mind, environmental awareness

M alachite's striking color and striations lends itself with the government of the heart chakra, and is a time tested crystal for healing and recovery. Malachite helps break harmful patterns of behavior, and encourages careful consideration of one's thoughts and actions and how they affect the surrounding environment.xxiv Quelling the underlying factors of many substance use disorders, Malachite allows users to assume their rightful fit in their surroundings, and helps to quell social anxiety.

Malachite is imbued with the ability to help with detoxification, and eliminates the internal aspects of a disease. A point of interest is Malachite's ability to help sort out dysfunctional sexual activities, or "psychosexual difficulties." xxv A beacon for helping the transformation of outgrown and detrimental behaviors, Malachite spirits near-immediate action, and demands imbalances be addressed. **Be Warned: Malachite is toxic in its raw form, and should never be ingested or used to make gem waters by submerging the crystal into water.**

**Rhodochrosite** **:**

Uses: emotional stress relief, improves emotional intelligence, promotes universal love

Rhodochrosite is sometimes confused with Rhodonite, as both stones have similar appearances and names. Reverberating with the heart and solar plexus chakras, Rhodocrosite helps teach us self-love and self-worth. It reminds us we are forever to look inwards for love, and celebrate our successes, no matter how small they may seem to us initially. As a tool for emotional release, Rhodochrosite helps us shoulder the psychological pain ascribed to the recovery process, and reminds us to take one day at a time.

  If you have difficulties with assuming a positive outlook in your life, Rhodochrosite can help you stop and appreciate the many things in your life bringing happiness in varying measures. In _The Crystal Encyclopedia_ Hall encourages, Rhodochrosite "teaches the heart to assimilate painful feelings without shutting down." xxvi Uprooting the underlying reasons causing substance use disorders are painful and powerful enough to entice relapse to cope with the rawness of it. Rhodochrosite helps prevent relapse by allaying the initial emotional shock of having to cope with the underbelly of addiction without the influence of one's drug of choice.

##  Crystal Healing for Psychological Wellness

If you entreat crystal healing into your everyday life, to help prevent the travesty of addiction to continue haunting your life, jeopardizing your happiness, health, and the ability to achieve your full potential, using crystal healing to address your psychological concerns and everyday struggles will help you stay on the road to recovery- allowing growth spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. In traditional means of rehabilitation, clinical workers focus on what the causes of addiction are, and root them out through means of therapy. Healing stones for depression, anxiety, anger, stress, clarity of mind, and communication combat the resulting turmoil.

### Depression

Crystals cannot cure depression, but they allow us to assume the correct state of being to actively confront depression from its source; they help us to be open when we would otherwise continue to shun ourselves into submissive silence. Healing crystals can help us feel comfortable enough to confront our inner demons and ready ourselves emotionally to address the underlying causes of our downward spiral.

**Amazonite** :

Uses: Writing, happiness, lightness if mind

Helps us to remember we are the masters of our own fate, and allows us to take up the role again; this bubbly stone prompts feelings of joviality, encouraging excitability to explore passions and hobbies forgotten when worked with. (It is also a great writing aid!)

Citrine:

Uses: Joviality, energy, sparks new ideas

Guards against outward conflicts affecting us inwardly. Protects us from the energies around us, and reminds us to take responsibility for the energy we project into our environment. Citrine acts as a source of vitality, and can help mobilize our minds and bodies when we have slumped into the drudgery of staying in bed for far too long.

 Dumortierite:

Uses: Discovery, communication, identifying underlying problems

An excellent stone to keep at hand for therapeutic purposes, dumortierite allows us to openly communicate our feelings of depression, and hone in on the source of our anguish. If you struggle to open up to those close to you- or your therapists, who you actively seek to resolve inner feelings of conflict- this healing crystal can help open your mind and heart to see the truth of internal conflict. Selecting a blue specimen will aid in communication further, as this resonates with our throat chakra, which may be blocked, and causing further imbalance in our willingness, or ability, to communicate.

There are times I have personally wanted to speak about my feelings openly, but for whatever reason, was unable to muster up the ability to do so. If you find yourself in this situation regularly, as I often did, placing this crystal pendant to rest on your throat (the location of your fifth chakra) can help immensely.

O pal:

Uses: Happiness, wholeness, motivation, gentle calm, introspection

Reigning in the joy once bourgeoning, and reminding us life is brimmed with delight, opal compels us to take care of ourselves, and to find the verve in living again. This crystal is particularly useful when you cannot motivate yourself to do anything physically or mentally stimulating. If there is a particular objective you want to complete, but cannot seem to muster the strength to accomplish, opal should be one of the immediate crystals in your arsenal of change and transformation.

R utile Quartz:

Uses: Grounding, clarity, openness of mind

Reminds us we are not alone, and that we certainly do not have all the answers. This crystal opens up new possibilities of recovery by allowing us to experiment with other methods of recovery. We can become closed off to alternative avenues and traditional means of healing, because we believe we have "already tried it" or some tactics "just do not work." Rutile Quartz assists in lifting the box we can sometimes place ourselves in inadvertently.

 Gold (Yellow) Topaz:

Uses: Happiness, self-love, eliminates doubt

Assists with all sources of depression, and serves as the font of sunshine we need to continue forth in the journey of recovery- often fraught with self-doubt, indecision, and crippling depression. Topaz allows us to reclaim control of our emotions and feelings, forcing us to set the stage of our lives on our own terms. This is a stone of manifestation, and will assist you in completing your goals and objectives you set out for yourself.

### Anxiety

Rhodonite:

Uses: Overcome grief, inner love, healing, emotional intelligence

U ntreated substance use disorders and relapse are notorious for causing overdoses, and fomenting thousands of deaths. Many have lost friends and loved ones to the travesty of overdose; this state of panic, loss, and absolute heartbreak stays with us, and may lock us in the never-ending cycle of addiction. Despite logically knowing addiction and substance use was the source of our initial heartbreak, sometimes we are unable to forge beyond our immediate cravings. Rhodonite is used to heal minor physical wounds, but is also an excellent enabler of allowing us to accept the death of loved ones and overcome our grief.

Sugilite:

Uses: Inward understanding, spirituality, wholeness, confrontation of fears, self-awareness

Helping us delve deep into discovering the forces manifesting our anxieties and fears, Sugilite is a keystone crystal to combat the inkling forcing us into submission. With the help of this crystal, we are prompted to actively confront the source of fear (which may stem from irrational, or deep rooted traumas) and begin working towards accepting the past and moving on to the future. Illumination stumbled upon with the help of Sugilite will catapult you forward in recovery, and assist in discovery of new planes of indwelling awareness.

####   
Amazonite and Rutilated Quartz are noted to have positive effects to lift the veil of anxiety.

Homesickness

Did you know we tend to gravitate towards geographic areas with the same crystals underneath the earth as our birthplace, and may move many times until we finally settle on familiar crystal beds? To check which crystals align with your birthplace, you will need a geological survey of the location you live in now, and the place of your birth.

Sometimes we are forced to find new environments in which to pursue addiction recovery or rehabilitation because we have decided a change of scenery is necessary. Despite making the correct choice for pursuing recovery and ultimate happiness, feelings of homesickness often stifle our will to cultivate healthy environments, free from substance use, and lure us back home into the safety of familiarity. This can be fatal. Overdose is more likely to occur in environments one is accustomed to using in. Until you are secure in recovery, you will need to utilize effective coping skills to help stave off the loneliness of being homesick. Fortunately, there are stones for that.

 Chrysoprase:

Uses: Harmony, emotional healing, clarity of emotions, environmental awareness

In the particular instance you miss the reassuring embrace of your paternal figures, Chrysoprase will help you establish a sense of inward calm, peace, and harmony in your new surroundings. Carrying or wearing this stone as a pendant will help you more easily adjust to your new surroundings, and embrace the environment around you as a "second home."

Petrified Wood:

Uses: Grounding, establishing connections with nature, protection

Take root with fossilized tree that has crystallized in your new home. Petrified wood helps you take in the beauty and grace of the places around you, establishing new ties to unfamiliar things.

### Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is one of the leading causes of substance abuse, particularly in means of benzodiazepines, opiates, and myriad downers. Hyperactivity is often caused by untreated medical conditions- or from one's refusal to take medication to moderate a known condition. Crystals should always aid existing treatment. Do not solely rely on crystal healing to alleviate biological conditions.

Dr. Holly Vasquez-Cortella, a PhD. graduate of Nova Southeastern University asserts ADHD brings many to the precipice of addiction as a means to calm themselves and cope with the environments induced by their misaligned body chemistry. She says,

"Because people with ADHD are so intelligent, they resort to drug use to essentially stupefy themselves. Many feel misunderstood by their peers, support systems, and loved ones- they think 'nobody understands me.'

Research shows us ADHD is a precursor for substance abuse and self-medication. There is a correlation between acute intelligence and addiction. Many resort to drug use as a means enabling themselves to cope with their everyday environments.

 It is tragic because once use begins and tolerance establishes itself, treatment becomes necessary."

Aquamarine:

Uses: Promotes calm, universal awareness, focus, solidarity

An added bonus of improving learning abilities, aquamarine is said to balance out hyperactive energy, and helps those with compromised concentration sit down and focus. If you are easily distracted, wearing a pendant or carrying a tumbled stone of aquamarine may help quell bouts of hyperactivity.

C hrysoberyl:

Uses: Awareness of actions, focus, regulates mood

Many who are hyperactive do not realize their behavior constitutes as such, if your loved ones are constantly telling you to calm down, you may benefit from Chrysoberyl. This crystal helps one stay focused on the task at hand, and reestablishes the connection lost between your actions and reality. Michael Grienger's studies in The Healing Crystals First Aid Manual found electroencephalogram (EEG) research- wherein electrical activity is quantified and monitored in the brain- affirms Chrysoberyl helps to equalize functionality in both hemispheres of the brain, quelling instances of stress and augmenting one's ability to  concentrate.xxvii Chrysoberyl aids in regulating manic mood swings, and empowers wearers to take control of their circumstances and regain self-control.

Indigolith (Blue Tourmaline):

Uses: Empathy, lessens tension

Assisting in finding inner peace, allowing oneself to trust others, and minimizing internal tensions, Indigolith promotes empathy, encourages harmony of the mind, and allows wearers to remain aware of their actions consciously.

###   
Lack of Energy

In our pursuit to "feel normal" many self-medicate with stimulant addictive substances in an attempt to wake up. Feelings of tiredness may result from a number of untreated medical conditions, or simply a lack of sleep. As a means of using alternative remedies which are not harmful, nor sustain a potentially fatal substance use disorder, consider the following crystals actionable solutions to cocaine, methamphetamine, bath salts, Kratom, speed, Adderall, and other similar substances.

Apatite:

Uses: Assists in penchants to overate, gives energy, satisfies internally

Encourages our bodies to use reserve stores of energy especially during times of psychological and physical taxation. If you are newly recovered in rehabilitation, your body may still undergo cravings for your substance of choice- reaching for Apatite, wearing the crystal as a pendant, or nestling it in your pocket, is an excellent alternative which can boon you with a surge of energy.

Carnelian:

Uses: Pursuit in liveliness, root chakra

Is a popular healing crystal for vitality, and for good reason. Its bright orange color resonates with our lower chakra centers, governing stability, energy, and the ability to remain physical. Carnelian helps enliven our inner sense of adventure and movement, focusing our intent to follow the path of positive energy. If you are looking for a crystal to take on a jog, or workout, carnelian will help keep you going, and encourage you to push your limits.

Garnet Pyrope:

Uses: Attracts grounded relationships, awakens passions, encourages pursuit in hobbies, grounding, determination, structure

Stimulating our innate restorative capabilities, Pyrope (a member of the Garnet family, organically red in color) is influential in helping us get up and stay active. The crystal solidifies our will, and keeps our feet firmly tethered to the goals we set before us (like sticking to a recovery regimen). The crystal promotes enduring stamina over long periods of time, and helps us to stay the course, even if we cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel yet.

### S tress

**Bronzite** **:**

Uses: Stablizes emotions, calculated decisions, physical calm

Dismantles stress and sources of agitation, allowing you to respond swiftly to conflict without the gnawing stress of anxiety. Asserted to calm the nervous system, bronzite allows you to feel centered without contest from the many things which may be taking course in your life. Prompting relaxation, bronzite helps its wearer to unwind in moments where the absence of inner peace and harmony jeopardize the completion of events needed for s oul progression.

**Smoky Quartz** **:**

Uses: Grounding, clarity of mind, stability, dissipates negative energy

The master of stress relief, smoky quartz enables those undergoing recovery to completely de-stress and focus on the tasks at hand to successfully complete rehabilitation, without straying from the path of recovery. Smoky quartz is a grounding stone, and allows us to plow through what must be done without allowing our resolve to second guess itself. Smoky quartz allows us to let go of factors beyond our power to control, and reminds us to firmly grasp energies we are able to manipulate for our best interests.

### Clarity of Mind

 **Amethyst** **:**

Uses: Divinity, wisdom, clam, soul searching, sobriety

Amethyst is revered for its ability to connect our consciousness with higher powers. In the event your mind becomes muddled, as it is oft to do in the delicate time of transformation, reign your intent with amethyst to help settle a chattering mind. Amethyst is known for its ability to hasten sobriety, and is an ideal resource to allay psychological and emotional discord.

**Clear Crystal Quartz** **(Rock Quartz):**

Uses: Clarity, improves inner senses, connects with universal energy

Quartz crystal can be programed to complete any task, and functions well in its ability to absorb information.

### Communication

**Blue Lace Agate** **:**

Uses: Communication, eagerness, calm, encourages sharing

A llowing us to channel everything we want to say _outwardly_ , blue lace agate helps dissolve the barriers of communication when we believe them to be irrevocably beyond our grasp. Blue Lace Agate reminds us to give our emotions the validity of truth and expression. If you have a difficult time communicating, try placing a tumbled stone of blue lace agate on your throat chakra to stimulate encouragement to speak openly.

**L  apis Lazuli** **:**

Uses: Emotional intelligence, prompts curiosity & wonder, communication

The apex stone of communication, Lapis Lazuli helps us to communicate our inner thoughts and feelings uninhibited, but allows us to absorb the truth of our realizations- preventing us from continuing to be enslaved by whatever the source of our emotional dependence is- whether stemming from another person, addictive substance, food, or source of dependence.

### Self-Love

**Rose Quartz** :

Uses: Self-love, expression of universal love, emotional wholeness

One of the supreme crystal healers of the heart, Rose Quartz reminds us to always find light and love within our inner-self, even if we are the victim of self-hate and odium. Rose quartz allows us to embrace our inner being while shedding harmful perceptions of self; instead of ignoring what it is left wanting in ourselves, rose quartz mobilizes change, especially when used in combination with amethyst. (See page 25 for a detailed description.)

**B  recciated** **Jasper** **:**

Uses: Introspection, completeness, protection, solidity

Jasper is continually overlooked for more precious stones, yet many fail to compare to the hardy earthiness Jasper offers in times of recovery. Brecciated Jasper in particular imparts feelings of wholeness, and will help you to remember your wellbeing is just as important as the people you care about. Jasper in its most basic form is a protective stone, and will help shield you from physical mishaps, along with psychological ones.

##  Crystal Healing in Action

Simply being in the same space as a dedicated crystal will help to align the energies around you to manifest your intent, but there are means in which you can become an active participant in the assimilation of these energies, thus making your intent- and their results- potent- as healing will remain in the forefront of your conscious. There are innumerable means of using crystals for healing beyond the scope of this book, including practices involving crystals and the zodiac, Reiki healing, and gardening with crystals. In respect to helping you overcome substance use disorders, I have outlined the most effective, and convenient means to launch yourself into crystal healing right away, espoused with the brief introduction of specific stones and crystals presented within the preceding two sections.

You should always use the methods which feel most in-tune with your needs, and I encourage you to experiment! Healing is unique to everyone, and as addiction medicine is not a one-size-fits-all solution, nor is crystal healing.

### Pendants

You may already own healing crystals and gems in jewelry. Every stone has metaphysical properties, even if they are not directly outlined in this book. I recommend any of Judy Hall's crystal encyclopedias to help you get started with becoming familiar with the different benefits you may entreat from everyday stones; common, semi-precious, and precious stones are heralded for many metaphysical boons. If you want a differing perspective from Hall's, who dominates reference material on crystal healing, I suggest _The Pocket Book of Stones_ by Robert Simmons, _Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic,_ and _An Illustrated Guide to 150 Crystals and Gemstones_ by Cassandra Eason.

Copper is for wonderful conducting energy, and will empower the energy of the crystals used in your pendants.

[Cite your source here.]

Copper is for wonderful conducting energy, and will empower the energy of the crystals used in your pendants.

[Cite your source here.]

As easily as you dedicate a stone in its raw, tumbled, or faceted state, you may also dedicate and charge jewelry with crystals embedded in them for use in the same manner. You may simply go out and purchase a pendant with the stone you wish to work with directly, or you can become an active participant in crystal healing by creating your own pendants to wear.

As a fan of crafting wire wrapped pendants myself, I am a big proponent of creating your own pendants to wear, as this process allows you to visualize your intent of the crystal throughout the entire time- priming your mind for the days to come, giving you a healthy means of coping with your surroundings, exposing you to different hobbies, and even bestows the opportunities to craft pendants for others in recovery- or may inspire you to create a crafting recovery MeetUp group. (Remember how important it is to meet new people and participate in new things? This is one artistic avenue of expression your healing may expose you to.)

Making your own wire wrapped jewelry is entirely rewarding, and gives you the opportunity to create interesting textures, and weave in alternative symbols. For instance, you might wire wrap the shape of a cross over you are an amethyst bauble, or include your initials to personalize your pendant. Using copper wire to create your pendants is assessable to everyone. Spools of copper wire in many different colors are available at your local craft store for a few dollars- giving you the opportunity to experiment with many colors and varied wire gauges.

To start out with, I recommend choosing a base color you like to wear already (like a plate silver or gold), and then choosing soft accent colors to weave into your creation. (In my newness to wire wrapping I purchased all of the hot neon pinks, teals, and purples I could find- and to this day I have hardly used any of it, because they lack the elegance and gentleness I prefer in my wire wrapped pieces- but they do come in handy occasionally!)  
A wire's gauge is the diameter of the wire, and translates into how malleable the wire is to manipulate. For beginners, I suggest starting out with a 20-22 gauge wire, as this allows you to create textures and layered effects later on, and is easy to work with for beginners. If you think you are not "creative" enough to wire wrap your own pendants, I began armed with literally no experience with jewelry or wire wrapping knowledge and YouTube. There are hundreds, if not thousands of videos dedicated to teaching people just like you, the art of wire wrapping! Many simple designs are still beautiful, and are easy to expand upon once you get the hang of it. A quick search on YouTube for "How to wire wrap a crystal" will not disappoint you. I was inspired by videos that were far above my skill level, and became frustrated. I almost quit before I stumbled onto something wonderful. This short two minute video, published by Oh Shereexxviii, is responsible for building my working knowledge of wire wrapping from the ground up.

If you are not one for creating your pendants, fear not, you do not have to resort to buying set jewelry (which can be expensive). Metaphysical shops selling tumbled stones (pebble like versions of the crystals you wish to work with) also sell wire encasements in which to place your stones on a chord or chain. What is great about these spiral crystal holders is they allow you to easily swap out crystals when you want to. However, they can be limiting, as you can typically only fit one crystal in them- as opposed to wire wrapping where you can encase many crystals together for an augmented effect.

Expanding your horizons beyond pendants, if you are not fond of necklaces is simple. Crystals are sold (or can easily be made into) bracelets, charms, chokers, headbands, hair clips, rings, anklets, and earrings. The sky is the limit in the ways you can dawn your favorite stones.

### Worry Stones

Worry stones are excellent for crystal healing, because you can take them wherever you go without drawing too much attention to yourself. A worry stone is a polished stone that is typically as large as the palm of your hand. The surface of the stone has a smoothed indentation, allowing your thumb to rest comfortably to rub the stone while you are engaged in everyday things. Think of worry stones as you might stress balls- except much easier to manage. (They do not roll everywhere!)

You can bring a worry stone into a therapy session if you need help taking full advantage of your session, should you find yourself being unable to open up. They are useful for running around town to avoid places boding ill for your recovery. Worry stones come in every crystal imaginable, and may be used in conjunction with any other means of holistic healing. (Maybe you will choose a rose quartz yet pair a worry stone made of smoky quartz.) Finding the worry stone you want outside of the quartz family (including rose quartz, amethyst, aventurine, citrine, and tiger's eye) may be difficult to find at your local metaphysical store. Feel free to request a special order, many shop owners are happy to help you connect with the stones you are in need of. You can always turn to the internet too. EBay is a great resource for purchasing beautiful crystals, but there are many specialized new age websites you may purchase crystals too.

### Gem Pouches

If you do not want to wear jewelry, you can keep your crystals with you in an attractive pouch. Carrying your stones with you this way gives you the opportunity to carry multiple stones at once, and can help keep you grounded in the office, at home, and out and about. You can correspond the color of your pouch to help achieve the desired affects you wish to achieve. For instance, for healing and rejuvenation, a green or blue pouch would be perfect. For self-love pink or a soft, pastel hue of your favorite color. For grounding, try a slate or black pouch; for energy and vitality orange and red.

You can go one step further with your pouch and store herbs with your crystals like sage, lavender, and rosemary for clarity, peace, and cleansing.

### Gem Water

Michael Gienger has written extensively about the art of crystal gem water and essences in _Gem Water._ This method of crystal healing goes one step further than traditional crystal placement and dedication, as gem waters can be ingested for near-to immediate effects. I myself have dabbled into the practice of gem waters recently, and can attest to their ability to influence your moods. There are many gem water recipes which lend themselves well to relaxation, energy, and clarity of mind.

For safety reasons, I will only introduce one way to infuse gem water with the essence of crystals- which do not come into direct contact with the water. Some crystals and minerals are poisonous upon consumption. Please do not drink any liquids which come into contact with any of your healing crystals. Poisoning is the exact opposite effect of what we want!

Remember, water is able to store memories; we are using this innate ability to augment the effectiveness of crystal healing and coupling actively speaking and visualizing our intended effect to both the water and crystals in question, as to make gem water potent. To infuse water with the properties of the crystals you wish to work with, pour purified water into a suitable glass container/jug/bowl, and set each crystal along the _outside_ of the encasement, so that the crystals are physically touching the container, **not the water**. As you are placing the crystals around the bowl, state your intention and the objectives you wish to achieve. xxix Do not rush the process, and take as long as you need. This is part of the healing cycle.

Let your water sit for about an hour, and then feel free to drink it, bathe with it, or apply to your face, or sites of abuse. (For instance, if you have scars caused by your habits.) This water is entirely safe to drink- assuming the water you used was safe in the first place. Through this means of transferring information and energy to the water, the liquid should never come into contact with the minerals or crystals. If you want to make your concoctions more potent, you can super charge them by using clear crystal quartz points. Simply line your glass container with clear crystal quartz and place your stones on the end of them.

Quartz crystal is _the_ most versatile stone, and will help you wrangle any elusive energy you are attempting to connect with. That being said, you can program clear crystal quartz to help you achieve virtually anything.

_Feng Shui_

#  Feng Shui for Recovery: Creating Environments of Healing

A

1

fter recovery (and even beforehand) you may discover the space you are living in is less than conducive to your commitment to sobriety- but more than that, if you do not feel comfortable in the space you are expected to cultivate sobriety and happiness, there is no way you are going to be comfortable enough to make the necessary life adjustments you need to progress forward with your recovery!

E

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes

ven if recovery begins from the inside out, that does not mean you cannot improve your chances of success by creating a living environment you feel comfortable in. Whether you are just getting back from rehab, or you are trying to change your own circumstances at home to prevent the development of a chronic substance use disorder (or maybe you are struggling with depression, self-harm, or anxiety), enlivening your home is the first step towards healing from the inside out.

Think about it: you spend most of your time at home- and if you do not (maybe you work crazy, long hours), your abode should be the safe haven you return to, for rest, recharging, and energizing yourself for things to come. Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese art of arranging your living space to direct the healthy flow of Chi, or spirit energy.

##### If you go home, and you _hate_ being there, that is a problem.

When I was on my own recovery journey, I often felt as if I wanted to go home, while I was home. Feeling displaced is probably one of the main causes of depression; you can be emotionally, physically, or mentally displaced- but when you feel like a stranger in your own home, both your physical and psychological health suffer.

I had to pick up and move to Connecticut for one year to get my life back in order- I came back to Florida, but I needed the space to recharge, and get away from the environments and people enabling me to continue making poor decisions for myself. It was not their fault, but being in their presence allowed me to ignore mounting depression and undue aggressiveness- which ultimately made my life miserable. Instead of moving entirely (and hey, sometimes you need to do that) owning your home is one of the first steps to get back on your feet.

Before we go any further, I want you to stop and remember: Healing Starts with YOU. Belief you are at the mercy of the latest treatment craze (excluding legitimate addiction treatment, mind you [remember, addiction is a disease, and not a moral failing- meaning it does require medical and psychological remedy]) brings tragedy; know you have the power to heal within you. Helping to invite healing energies around you will foment spiritual recovery, catalyzing both physical and psychological healing.

By transforming your living space into an atmosphere you love being in, your anxiety and depression will diminish drastically. One of the central factors of developing substance use disorders is your environment- taking care of yourself, and your surroundings is one of the first things to go in the face of chronic addiction. By reclaiming this aspect of your life, you are taking back the ability to care for yourself, and creating an escape from the rest of the world- as opposed to wallowing in a hovel you dread coming back to.

#### Creating Sacred Space

##### Sacred Space is an environment conducive to the progression of your interests, passions, and ultimate life goals.

Goal setting is an important aspect of your overall recovery, and pursuing your passions is an important aspect of long term recovery. When you restructure your life in the light of recovery, do so in a means to progress it further than you imagined before. There are simple things you can do around your home that will help you stay motivated and greet each day with enthusiasm:

#### Declutter

You knew it was coming, right?

Cleaning up your space is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Beyond the obvious keeping your home neat and tidy, getting rid of things you no longer use, like out of place furniture, books you know you will never touch again (this is coming from a bibliophile), and simply anything that no longer serves a purpose, or brims you with happiness, has got to go. One of the guiding principles of Feng Shui is keeping an orderly environment to allow the positive flow of Chi into your life. Everything has an energy- even inanimate objects, and everything has a place. In order to align the correct situation of elements, you must begin with a clean "work" area to begin inviting the magic of object placing.

##### Native Americans and New Age enthusiasts alike burn white sage to cleanse the home of negative energies. Many smudge, or cleanse, themselves with sage too.

#####

####

And yes, that includes the odds and ends you have been saving for years because your "you'll-never-know-when-you'll-need-it" mentality has given rise to a closet filled with ephemera (or things that were once useful, which are now not). Sometimes a new bookshelf is what your living space needs to spruce up the place, while giving the clutter in the corner a permanent home. Or maybe you'd do better to purchase a bedframe with storage underneath, to help declutter your closet from blankets and sheets.  
Decluttering is all in the details. If you do not effectively clean out every nook and cranny, you will continue to avoid your closet for years- and yes, that includes the drawers filled to the messy brim with odds and ends. When you clean, it should be all inclusive- so that your entire house becomes accessible to you again. But do not think of it that way, or you will never do it.

Start with one room at a time, one day at a time- and do not try to rush everything at once. Cleaning your home should empower you, because you are taking control of your life back and you are the one deciding what you will allow in your life, and what you will not.

#### Surround Yourself with the Things You Love

After you have cleared space, you may find your house has more room in it than you recall. This is the fun part where you get to hang pictures of the people you love (or maybe you are like me, and you want to hang pictures of your cats- everywhere). Do not have money for picture frames? No problem! Try mounting your photos with glue on pretty cardstock, or scrapbook paper you can find at any art store.

Love books? Surround your space with them, so there is never a sitting area without a book close at hand. Maybe you are fascinated with cars, start collecting model automobiles, or move your collection from the sequestered corner to one shelf, to everywhere else.

Personalizing your home should empower you to complete the goals you want to set for yourself. If you love writing, it would make sense to frame your favorite quotes and put them around your home, to remind you of your goals. When we fill our surroundings with mementos which inspire us, we are setting ourselves up for success. Emulate the behaviors of successful people, and place yourself on the path of stepping stones that will ultimately allow you to ascend to your aspirations. If you have a difficult time justifying splurging on pretty baubles and esthetics- or if you think it does not matter what your environment is populated with, you are dead wrong. When Chi is able to enter our space freely, and in turn, cycle out again, we invite ourselves to participate in the natural cycle of the forces around us. Walling yourself behind piles of laundry, cluttered desks, and a messy kitchen will prevent you from enjoying the tiny pleasures. It is Oh-so important to your recovery to remember to stop and bask in the pleasantry of simply being. People in recovery are often unable to enjoy the small things because of their traumatic life circumstances and environments of being. A sure-fire way to help seed recovery is to praise your mini victories along the way- and that includes allowing yourself to feel at peace, happy, and fulfilled.

If you want to open your own animal shelter or a sanctuary, you might consider subscribing to specialized magazines and displaying them prominently after you have read them. Wherever your interest lies, at this point in your life, you should orchestrate to surround yourself amid things that make you happy.

#### If you are on a budget (who is not?) try thrift shopping!

There are innumerable gems you can find during a thrifting binge; turn your finds into arts and craft projects by refinishing old furniture, or transforming trinkets into your own personal treasures with a hot glue gun and paint.

#### Invite Spirituality into Your Life by Surrounding Yourself with Resonance

Even if you are not a religious person, inviting spirituality into your life is important to help keep you focused and balanced on your journey of recovery. This can be as simple as hanging up a beautiful cross you can gaze at, or creating an alter suitable for your spiritual beliefs. But non-religious relics and figures prompt spirituality, too. To connect with the universal energies around you, do not feel you are limited to religious symbols. Creating an atmosphere of spirituality is easily achieved when you have personalized your living space to suit the goals in which you hope to fulfill; there is a fullness that will become undeniable. Inviting varied techniques of healing throughout this book will move you closer to finding the indwelling nature of yourself, thereby connecting you to your intuition, and sense of serenity.

##### When you welcome spirituality into your life, you open yourself up to the healing energies gifted to everyone in the universe, and accept yourself as someone worthy of love and healing.

Some people prefer to meditate, as opposed to pray- and that is completely fine. Create a beautiful atmosphere where you can engage in whichever form of worship, or introspection, is ideal for your personal needs. Incense is great for relaxation, as are beautiful crystals and mineral specimens. There are healing crystals promoting sobriety from many addictive substances. Conversely, yoga is an ideal way to help the energy flow freely through yourself, as is the art of chakra healing.

Making sure you have time to care for yourself, and the environment you surround yourself in, is essential to long term sobriety. Give yourself another reason to love waking up in the morning, and own your home!

## Feng Shui Basics

Implementing the sensibilities of Feng Shui will help invite a calmness into an otherwise chaotic environment. One of the essential concepts of recovery to implement into your everyday life is to separate yourself from negative environments. You must become accustomed to taking responsibility for the energy around you- relinquishing anyone and anything which no longer serves to progress the momentum of your sobriety. The philosophy of Feng Shui is centered around the placement of objects in the home as they correspond to the natural direction of Chi. For instance, there is a natural place where everything fits; enhancing the career is focused in the North, whereas reputation and success is centered in the South, family love is represented in the East, and the creative spirit to the West, so on and so forth. Becoming aware of the flow of Chi, as they relate to the direction elements of the universe is a simple way to orchestrate healing energies into your life to ensure your way to recovery.

W hen coupled with other means of rehabilitation, remaining steady with your support system, and maintaining any addiction remedies as discussed by your medical professionals, Feng Shui can only help to achieve your end goals sooner. You do not need to go out and purchase "the perfect furniture" or Asian relics to reap the benefits of Feng Shui. Simply working with the things you already love and own is entirely acceptable- and encouraged. Learning to love yourself, and the space around you will help delve equal love inside of yourself. Remember the _good_ memories surrounding your home environment. Yet please be warned, if the objects in your home remind you of past drug use, self-harm, or other destructive behavior, _it has got to go!_ Use implementing Feng Shui as a means to purge anything holding you back in your home environment. If you do not have the means to purchase new furniture, you might consider refinishing the objects you have to work with. Armed with the internet's many tutorials, there is nothing you cannot do! This text is intended to give you a working knowledge of Feng Shui's essential components, allowing you to make immediate changes into your life and home.

##  Finding Your Energy Map

Feng Shui revolves around the careful placement of symbols and objects to intensify the natural flow of Chi to manifest your pointed desires into your life. While there are Feng Shui masters who can help you turn your entire house into the bustling epitome of the ancient Chinese art, after working with this chapter you will have an introductory understanding of the basic elements of Feng Shui, and may begin implementing them in your home, workplace, and any other environment you spend time in. You can even help others by making suggestions and improvements in the name of good energy and healing environments.

  Establishing your personal energy map, known as the **Bauga,** is a crucial step in identifying where the essential directional elements align with your floor plan. Based upon the directions in which the corners of your house are comprised, specific totems, and objects of manifestation will be tactfully placed throughout your dwelling to draw upon the natural alignment of elements and energies. To begin mapping out your space, draw a map of your floorplan, ensuring to place the entrance of your dwelling on the bottom section of the bauga. Place every element of your home on the preceding gridded map, to help you correctly correspond each room with its proper elemental energies within the spectrum of Feng Shui. Use this grid to simplify your workspace, or single room- treat the entire map as the expanse of your desk or single room.

Now that you have your home, room, or work pace worked out on an easily digestable grid, place the colorful Feng Shui correspondences on top of your grid, to ascertain which power fonts reside in your separate rooms. (This will help to solidify your personal Bauga.)

### Abundance

As you can imagine, the abundance corner in your home is responsible for helping you generate money and monetary possessions. The color associated with the Southeast section of your home is lavender- but keep in mind, in any room you may apply the bauga map to energize each room as its own whole- meaning you may have multiple sources of "abundance" energy in each room's Southeast section. The element associated with abundance is wood. To invite more wealth into your life, try placing jade- a crystal of prosperity and luck- within this quadrant of your home. Anything which bears fruit will act as symbolic homage to attracting wealth and possession. Succulent plans, fruit bearing plants, and _green or lavender_ crystals, figurines, or knickknacks can help strengthen the abundance corner of your home, or work place. (Want that raise? Try embellishing your Southeast section of your desk with the necessary accouchements.)

I believe it is safe to assert "prosperity" in this sense is meant to signify material possessions, but you may energize your personal sense of wealth, by surrounding yourself in loving energy to appreciate the possessions you do have. Do not simply stock this corner of your house with the intention of amassing wealth for wealth, have measurable goals in mind: perhaps there is a vacation you have always wanted to take, or perhaps you need to continue costly therapy. Do not take for the sake of taking, focus your energy on the things you need to progress your recovery. But hey, who couldn't use some extra income?

Ring in the elementals of the wood realm including gnomes, animals relying on trees for life, (koalas, and woodpeckers, for example). You may introduce wood in a literal sense with a wooden incense burner, or a wooden sculpture. Finding an attractive piece of driftwood also suffices- and may bring you an increased sense of personal power.

###  Fame & Reputation

If your confidence has taken a dive because of the internal nagging of your substance use disorder, or familial unrest has ensued as a result of addiction, augmenting the Southern expanse of your home will dramatically improve how you are perceived by others, and will in turn give you the confidence boost you need to stay on the path to recovery. Someone who is confident in their commitment to sobriety is better equipped to prevent relapse, and keep their decision making level-headed in times of stress. Self-confidence translates into inner assuredness.

The Grecian symbol for fire is an upright triangle, and corresponds directly to the element of the South. To energize the Fame and Reputation center of your home, incite the aid of fire: candles, a fireplace (or mini cauldron to burn powdered incense), figurines of fire elementals (salamanders, fire fairies, fire dragons, Leo, Ares, or Sagittarius zodiac references etc.), or artistic prints of fire. Any of your accomplishments should rest at the helm of this direction: degrees, certifications, awards, trophies, and plaques of achievement. If you have accomplished it, hang it up! Like attracts like, displaying homage to your past accolades will encourage future successes. Rely on the color of fire, reds and oranges perform best here.

### Romance

Inviting a healthy romantic relationship into your recovery life, should you decide to pursue one, is essential in keeping you on the track to sobriety. Getting involved with someone who is actively using is not in your best interests, especially early on in recovery. There is nothing wrong with helping to encourage your friends to get help for their untreated substance use disorders, _but remember you are in a heightened period of fragility._ Inviting a healthy relationship into your life introduces a newfound standard in your life going forward. Escape romantic relationships barring the enactment of transformation. Conversely, if you would like to seek someone to connect with romantically, energizing the romance corner in your home can help you meet the perfect someone.

Colors typically associated with the romance corner reflect passion, love, and goodness of the heart include red, pink, and white respectively. To prompt loving energy into your life, make a decided effort to introduce pairs into the Southwest spaces of your home. Candle sticks, matching pillows, and imagery of couples are wonderful beginnings to representing what it is you hope to attract. If there is unrest in your romantic life take action by sprucing up your romance corner with roses, garnet, or an herbal sachet of basil, thyme, patchouli, and lavender- all herbs corresponding to love and romance.

### Family

As you might imagine, bridges burned during the tides of addiction may be restored and mended if extra attention is place on the family and health aspect of your home. Hang family pictures, letters, and other mementos (like movie or event tickets) on your wall, or a cork board in the East of your home. Try to make a collage effect, as placing objects side-by-side is not ideal in Fung Shui. Give your environment a boost of energy with crystals of aventurine, rose quartz, and clear crystal quartz to invite loving energy into this aspect of your life.

To nurture your health corner inside your home, consider placing exercise equipment into your space. A yoga mat is ideal, as it is easy to move around, will not cause clutter, but will allow you to work out (or meditate) in the ideal direction in your home. This corner of your home is excellent to help you get active into your community. If you are looking to branch out of your social circles, consider spending some extra time pampering this part of your home to invite opportunities of openness and togetherness to occur. Maybe that is joining your local gym, or getting involved in a local arts and crafts club, or skateboarding group you have been too hesitant to approach.

### Health and Fortune

Working in tandem with the Family corner, the center of the room serving to equalize all aspects of the flow of Chi focuses on harmonizing prosperity and stability among all of the working aspects of Fung Shui. You might place symbols of balance and peace in the middle of the room. My preference is the venerable Yin and Yang symbolism- but if this feels too predictable to you, you might consider placing representatives of all of the elements responsible for creating harmony in your home.

###  Children & Creativity

Boost your creative energy by placing your arts in the west. Set up a drawing board, or sit in the west when you write to produce the best results. Any creative endeavor will be augmented in the West, and will help you progress your art- whatever it may be, forward. Fostering connections with your children has tethers in the west, as the creation of life is the pinnacle creative force of all species. Keeping your spirits childlike and carefree is done here! Hang up your favorite guilty pleasures which give you happiness and let your creativity take over entirely.

###  Wisdom & Self-Actualization

Get to know yourself in the Northwest, and practice your daily affirmations or meditation here if possible. The Northwest region helps us connect to our inner knowing and foment the actualization of our ambitions, goals, and desires. This corner governs self-knowledge and helps us in times of uncertainty to divine the messages from the universe we were not previously ready to hear. If you are looking for insight as to why addiction infiltrated your life, you would do well to meditate in this corner for the best insight. Beyond this, seek the Northwest to empower yourself to take action against the seas which have lead you to the slopes of addiction, and know it is within your power to change the outcomes of your life.

Place objects here symbolizing successful attainment of your objectives. Keep the manuscript here for that book you are working on- or place your sketchbook as the focal point of the center piece of your room. If you want to successfully complete your rehabilitation course, place pamphlets of your facility, or personal power statements in the forefront of your interior designing. Keep your goals and aspirations in the forefront of this room to help them manifest.

This corner is perfect for introspection; if there are elements of your life which no longer serve you, but you are unable to let go of, come here for clarity of thought, and help whisk away the energies not serving your healthy progression forward into your new life of achievement.

### Career Path

The heart of your livelihood lies in the North, and is responsible for your personal sense of independence, ultimate destiny in the career field, and the manifestation of your aspirations. If there is a job you have always wanted, but you have not been blessed to find the opportunities to pursue it, energize the north region of your home to entreat the energies that be to manifest your ultimate vision. Do not settle for anything less than your best. The element of the North in Feng Shui is water- investing in a mini water fountain feature is an obvious way to help stir the energies of change and success within this space of your home.

If you are suspended in advancement at your current job, focusing on energizing this aspect of your work space is essential to moving up. Place objects and symbols relevant to your field to help direct the energies to the correct aspects of your life. If you are a writer, place quotes of your favorite authors on the walls- this approach works for any field of interest. Just look for the tidbits and quotes from your industry leaders propelling you forward to make your own meaningful dedications to your industry. Introducing blue elements into this corner is helpful to manifest the power of this corner. You may also consider placing posters of industry leaders in black and white to help balance the energies of your career path and make tangible the success of those pictured.

###  Spirituality and Guidance

As mentioned before, establishing a keen sense of spirituality and connectedness throughout the universe is essential for your successful recovery. To help maintain, and connect to your spirit guides (or if you prefer, auspicious energies) energize the Northwest of your home to establish a roost for these etheric forces. Try placing any religious relics is applicable in this corner of your home. You might furnish this space with statuettes of Buddha, The Goddess, or Jesus. If you are not overly religious, place an object to which you can connect with the higher sense of yourself. Maybe you love dragons, or have a strong affinity for wolves or horses. A common choice for crystals is an obelisk of clear crystal quartz, or an amethyst geode, to help you connect to your higher consciousness.

If there are pending questions keeping you up at night, this space in your home is ideal to contemplate and ask advice from a higher power, or the guides in your life. Potential guides can include your addiction and recovery counselors, family members, and friends. If you are active in tools of divination, you might consider practicing in this area for a clear connection to the higher consciousness. The element associated with this corner of your home is metal, which may be augmented with hues of white, silver, and black. Introducing reflective elements into this space- like a mirror- will help establish this corner of your home. (If the spiritual corner falls within a bedroom, avoid mirrors! They are considered poor energy for bedrooms, as they always remain "active." Feng Shui suggests placing a cloth over mirrors in bedrooms when you are ready to sleep.) Creating balance and harmony within the elemental spectrum is necessary to positively invite the elements into our lives. Too much or too little will serve to cause unwanted imbalances.

##  The Elemental Energies of Feng Shui

### Fire

Fire is our source of passion, motivation, and energy! Red is the ideal color to rouse the fire aspect into any space wanting for it. Long associated as a font of transformative energy, fire helps to progress things in motion, and serves as the fuel to burn ambitions and creativity forward into fruition. Too much of the fire element in your life may be dwindled with elements of wood. To invoke the spirts of fire, you may burn red candles and entreat their help to spur you towards your ultimate objectives. Carving a power word into a red candle and lighting it with the intention of attaining your goals will magnify the energies of fire threefold. (The same goes for the other elements with corresponding color associations.)

### Earth

If you are feeling displaced in your part of the universe, it can be attributed to a lack of stabilizing Earth element in your home. To invite the restorative energies of Earth, cultivate an indoor (or outdoor garden); bring in stones, crystals, and pebbles to decorate your space with earthy hues. Ceramics and clay sculptures are beautiful ways to invite the spirit of Earth into your home.

### Metal

Ground resolve and clarity with the Metal element when appropriate. Inviting the clarity of metal in your life will make your decision making pointed and improve your ability to make the decisions progressing your recovery forward. Metal will help prevent relapse, as it gives us the insight to understand our actions, and show us why we must relinquish thoughts and mannerisms that would stagnate us in our old, familiar ways maiming our ability to transform the characterizes no longer serving us.

Introduce the Metal element with like furnishings of chrome, silver, iron, and steel objects. Roundness is a marked characteristic of the Metal element. Some objects of consideration to include are: stress balls, brass furnishings, or a metal/brass motor and pestle.

### Water

When water is in equal balance in your life, you feel connected with the universe, and are in-tune with the energies and feelings of those around you. Water serves to connect us to our higher beings- yet too much of the water element will derail any attempts to make meaningful changes, as an influx of water energy predisposes us to flamboyancy in our decision making- vacillating wildly between wanting to recover, and returning to our destructive ways. Balancing water with Earth and Metal will help to bring the stability and clarity needed to dam up an excess of emotions- allowing clear thought.

Invite the elements of water with blue imagery, waterscapes, and images of merfolk, nymphs, water fairies, dragons, and other elementals associates with the seas, lakes, and rivers. You may rely on any form of mythology and represent the Goddesses and Gods of old.

### Wood

Growth and progression are the main focuses of the Wood element. Akin to the tallest trees, wood serves to protect the interests of your personal growth and power. If you have issues committing to your resolve, entreating the wood element can help solidify your intentions and see endeavors all the way through. Additionally, establishing the wood energy helps the other aspects of the elements flourish, as Wood places you in direct command of your actions.

Invite the perspective of wood with- you guessed it- wood! Sculptures, beaded curtains, small trees, and attractive driftwood are ideal to represent the Wood energy.

Chakra Healing

##

##  Chakra Healing for Addiction Recovery

Chakra in Sanskrit means "wheel." It is said when all of the seven major chakras are perfectly positioned we are in a state of peace and wholeness, and on the path of fulfilling our potential. Those who suffer from depression, anxiety, rage, discontent, or addiction are thought to have unbalanced chakras.

During chakra meditation we focus on healing the energy centers- which can either be hyperactive or underactive. Equilibrium of the energy centers are soothed into their ideal states by means of yoga, crystal healing, intervention from chakra gurus, and other means of holistic and New Age practice.

Meditation, crystal healing, and yoga are excellent recovery strategies to use after rehabilitation to rediscover the spiritual side of yourself, and abate the cravings to use addictive substances. The call of addiction gnaws at those who feel as if they have nothing to offer the universe; they feel hollow, empty, devoid of use, love, and hope. Chakra healing restores your sense of self, and reminds you of your mission on this plane. Whether you believe in destiny or not, is irrelevant. Everyone has something to accomplish in their lives. **Preordained, or chosen, we must remember to follow our callings relentlessly, lest we lose ourselves in the perils of addiction and inner turmoil.** Tending to neglected energy centers may seem odd to you at first, if you have never paid great attention to sensing energy flow, or communicating deliberately with your chakras, but in time, you will learn how to detect imbalances in your subtle bodies.

Typically, when we are out of synch with the environments around us, it is assured something is not quite right inwardly. Turning to other means of emotional satiation are only temporary fixes; eventually the high becomes a necessary mistress to maintain normalcy, and develops other physical and psychological disorders, typically bolstering the fears, anxieties, and depression they were meant to save you from. When you mend indwelling unrest, you _resolve_ the need to seek solace elsewhere. If you do not like the circumstances of your life today, _you can fix them_ \- but only if you fix you. The mantra I have adopted for myself is, "Fix the inside, and the outside will follow." Sometimes I say this to myself countless times a day- sometimes none.

Chakra healing can help you achieve your goals, and become more self-aware, thus helping you see through the sometimes muddled roads after recovery. Many use religion to help keep sobriety in toe; for those who do not resonate with an overly religious approach to recovery, chakra meditation and crystal healing are healthy alternatives to the religious bent, because meditation and chakra balancing are intensely spiritual- without the necessity of prayer or submission to a higher being. Of course, the healing art lends itself well either way- making them ideal for people subscribing to either school of thought.

## Chakra Healing 101

According to Michelle Fondin, there are seven major energy centers corresponding to "massive nerve centers in the body."xxx Each of these energy spheres, or chakras, influence nerves in ruling over each of our critical organs. When blockages in energy occur, we experience sickness, disease, or emotional unrest. Chakra healing balances any under or overactive centers for physical, spiritual, and emotional health. The names of all seven are the Root Chakra, Sacral, Solar Plexus, Heart, Throat, Third Eye, and Crown.

Progressing from the ground up is the "proper" way to harmonize the chakras. The idea being: creating a strong foundation is essential to guide higher planes of thought and emotion with higher vibrational chakras (think the Third Eye and Crown specifically). But as I mentioned earlier, there is no definitive "right or wrong" way to explore holistic healing. Trusting your intuition first and foremost is critical to glean every benefit from practicing with nature. If after reading the profiles of the chakra centers you _know_ your heart chakra is underactive, take measures to remedy the heart center- and then work on the rest.

Working out of sequence will not be entirely ineffective- but you must remind yourself you cannot tend one energy center, they must all be in alignment. Through your recovery you will encounter the notion for true change to enact, the entirety of your being must be cleansed. Only focusing on one aspect of recovery, like remaining abstinent, will defeat your entire objective if you end up relapsing because you neglected to adopt other means of coping with stress. The same can be said of the chakras. If you only focus on healing the heart, it will surely crumble if you do not take the time to firmly establish its roots downward.

The entire chakra system is connected and intertwined intrinsically with your physical and emotional health. Ensuring any imbalances of the chakra system are remedied is necessary for your entire recovery. Abstinence is not the only measure of success in rehabilitation; true recovery is the totality of harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. If you are unable to access higher planes of thought, it will be difficult for you to achieve self-actualization. The knowledge of how to resume control of your thoughts, aspirations, and dedication to pursue them lies within inward serenity, assurance, and open heart. Learning about how the chakras communicate with your entire being is just the first step to achieving everything you have always dreamt of.

## The Root Chakra

In Sanskrit the **Root Chakra** is called Muladhara. The color most associated with this energy center is red. The root chakra center is located at the base of the spine and governs our primal forces. When properly aligned one feels whole, at peace with one's sense of self, and is secure in themselves and the environments surrounding them. The first chakra is the root of everything to come thereafter, and is typically the first point of interest when undergoing chakra healing. Without alignment and synchronicity with the first chakra, the development of any chakras proceeding cannot stand on solid ground- and may be thrown out of balance as a result.

The physical organs associated with the root chakra include the first three vertebrae, the bladder, and the colon.xxxi

In terms of addiction, an imbalance in the root chakra may cause a propensity to cling to money, food, and stagnation. Those with an _overactive_ root chakra may experience laziness, excessive weight gain, overeating, an unhealthy love for things material, avarice, anxiety over change, and addiction to security- meaning, **one may hold onto people or circumstances which are more harmful than helpful, in a desperate attempt to hold onto "security."** Although any instances of substance abuse may result from a compromised Root chakra, Cunningham and Ramer ascribe coffee, marijuana, and heroin addiction with this impeded energy center in _Further Dimension of Healing Addictions._ xxxii

_Underactive_ root chakras manifest in fearfulness, chronic anxiety, restlessness, a tendency to under-eat, disorganization, and may lead to financial instability. xxxiii Cunningham and Ramer assert the underlying causes of a misaligned Root Chakra may include instances of violence, war, the early loss of a parent, subjection to foster care, and living in a household of abuse (of either addictive substance, barbed lounge, or physicality).

Many who fight for survival may struggle with an unbalanced root chakra. Healing your base energy center is absolutely imperative to create a solid foundation for your mental, physical, and spiritual growth. Remedying the root chakra will require you to dig deep and finally accept that, "Yes!" you do belong here, you have a purpose, and you are important.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

When dealing with matters of the Root chakra, addiction creeps in when we feel as if we are meaningless in the world, and are swallowed up by our insecurities, and loss of purpose. The first chakra serves to govern the ground we stand on, and if we are unable to find our sense of personal power we become truly lost, physically and psychologically. One might be inclined to use because feelings of displacement on a fundamental level of simply existing can cast the shroud of insatiable doubt and misery. Kalashatra Govinda in _A Handbook of Chakra Healing_ credits sciatica and back issues with disharmony of the Root chakra. xxxiv Stopping the endless cycle of being overwhelmed outwardly, and emotionally underwhelmed, balancing the Root Chakra is an ideal starting point to place things back into a healthy perspective.

Getting active is an effective means of activating a lazy Root Chakra. Immersing yourself in nature will help to reestablish your own roots, and connect you to the universal pull of nature. Indulging in your creative energies will help manifest balance into your life. If you are handy with arts and crafts, try to make things that are beautiful and pragmatic for your house and work area- this will help you remember you are in control of your surroundings, and solidify your capability of bringing things to fruition.

Root Chakra licensed CC by 3.0

##### Affirmation for the Root Chakra

I am rooted firmly to this sacred ground.  
In myself I feel whole.  
I am needed. I have purpose.  
I will manifest my ambitions every day.

#### Crystal Healing for the Root Chakra

The laying of stones is one of the traditional means of healing unbalanced chakras. For the root chakra, place your crystal or gemstone on the base of your spine and visualize the red petals of this energy center radiating throughout your lower body. See the petals of a red lotus spin clockwise- if that does not _feel_ right, envision the petals spinning counter clockwise, until eventually the flower comes to rest.

At this point visualize bright, white light pouring into the center of the flower to connect the red lotus into the stream of your consciousness. Feel the lotus flow freely through your feet, legs, stomach, chest, arms, hands, all the way up to your head.

Know that when your root chakra is aligned and energized, nothing can derail you from your path. Use the following healing crystals: red jasper, carnelian, garnet, smoky quartz, obsidian (black), and onyx.

When selecting a crystal to use for healing your root chakra, choose one that feels right. If I have not listed it here, trust your intuition! Typically the rule of thumb is to use stones associated with grounding, or that are red or "earthy" (think rustic browns, greys, and black) in color.

## The Sacral Chakra

In Sanskrit the name of the **Sacral Chakra** is Svadhisthana (meaning sweetness). The color ruling this energy center is spritely orange. This chakra rules our sexuality and creative side. Artists, writers, singers, and all people creative experiencing writer's block, or painful lulls in their creative spirits may suffer from an unbalanced Sacral Chakra.

In terms of addiction treatment, an overactive second chakra will foment overwhelming feelings, precipitating instances of self-medication. Obsessive attachment to people is common with an overactive Sacral Chakra, and may come with the tendency to manipulate others. Emotional dependency is another indication something may not be quite right in this energy center. An overall lack of enjoyment in life entirely and an inability to feel sexually fulfilled is common among those with imbalanced Sacral chakras.

An underactive second chakra manifests in social awkwardness, an unhealthy fear of intimacy, the absence of excitement, passion, or the self-inflicted _denial of pleasure_ (whether that is physically or emotionally).

Healing the Sacral Chakra is essential to enjoy life again. You may feel empty without the use of your substance of choice- because you have grown an attachment and associating with being able to _feel_ while under the influence- but balancing the second chakra can help you reclaim your sense of joy and pleasure in the smaller things in life, without perpetuating destructive habits. If you cannot derive joy from the people and things around you, who used to brim you with happiness- look to your sacral chakra as a possible cause.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

The second chakra is the root of joy and emotional fulfillment, without this energy center in harmony, both internal and outer discord is guaranteed. As a result, many turn to the comforts of addictive substances to regain their sense of happiness and fulfillment- _but these drugs take double that of which they "give."_ Learning how to live in harmony with the Sacral chakra is essential in learning to live again in joy. Being unable to express your inner feelings without suffering from guilt is a sign of an imbalance of the Sacral chakra- especially if your emotional outburst causes you to lash out on others, and you come to regret it later. Many respond to submerging themselves further and further into their shell, but this only serves to isolate them more- forcing the continuance of addiction. Learning how to connect with your emotions and express them openly is the best medicine for the second chakra.

In _Further Dimensions of Healing Addiction_ Cunningham cites alcohol and amphetamine based substances as a result of an unbalanced Sacral chakra. xxxv

Sacral Chakra licensed CC by 3.0

##### Affirmation of Sacral Chakra

Come planes of joy!   
I am the essence of spirit and soul.

I am the creator of my own happiness.   
I am beautiful and one with my body.

I will accept happiness because I am deserving.

I am the spirit. I am life. I am home.

#### Crystal Healing for Sacral Chakra

The second chakra exists right above your pubic bone, and is the essence of your creative expression. Being able to freely express yourself will eliminate the chances of relapse, because you will have an active means to expunge the high stress situations which may have otherwise lead you to relapse. **Heroin** **and alcohol addiction** are specifically mentioned in relation to the disharmony of this chakra by _Reiki._ xxxvi Balancing the Sacral Chakra will allow you to pursue the things in life that bring you joy, without berating, or second guessing yourself.

_Yes. You deserve happiness_ _._

Place your healing crystal right below your navel and envision a brimming, sunkissed lotus blooming where your stone is resting. Visualize the lotus emanating orange light, and _feel_ it spin clockwise. While breathing deeply, invite its energy to surge through your entire body, bathing your head in its light. Envision yourself actively writing, singing, or doing whatever it is you are passionate about.

Soak up this energy as long as you need. When you feel that you are whole and at peace with yourself channel this energy back into the petals of your lotus and feel its presence radiating for the days to come.

Crystals to use: citrine, amber, yellow topaz, fire opal, moonstone, ruby, and carnelian.

Again, trust your intuition when selecting which stone to use, and expand beyond this list. You may find the first time using this meditation you prefer one stone to another, but change your mind after a second time. Select stones that are golden or orange in hue.

##  The Solar Plexus Chakra

Manipura, or lustrous gem, is the name of the **Solar Plexus Chakra** in Sanskrit. The third chakra rules our sense of personal power and helps to keep us on the right path, by acting on our aspirations and lifelong dreams. The Solar Plexus Chakra controls our sense of will, and allows us to achieve our goals, and pull from our inner font of vitality. A healthy third chakra allows for a measure of spontaneity.

Addiction associated with an unbalanced third chakra include amphetamines, cocaine, and **caffeine**. Many will experience unwarranted aggression. An overactive third center results in controlling and dominating behavior, an inflated arrogance, hyperactivity, and behavior that is excessively combative and competitive.

An underactive third chakra reveals itself in low energy, lack of will, low self-esteem, passivity, physical and emotional coldness, and escapism. You may experience a lack of motivation, or will to do anything if you suffer from languishing Naval chakra. Attuning this energy center is critical in helping you to realize what your true goals and intentions for your life are, and then making conscious decisions to make those aspirations become a reality.

A balanced Solar Plexus will allow you to complete your goals, take responsibility for your actions, and rise to any occasion. You will achieve self-acceptance, and acknowledge the power laying dormant inside of you.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

Without a clear sense of drive or ambition, many resort to using addictive substances to make up for what they are unable to feel inwardly. An imbalance of the Solar Plexus may stem from self-hate, and an acute sense of being powerless in your life's circumstances. Cunningham cites addiction to heroin as a correlation to blocked third Chakra. xxxvii It is one of the strangest things I have ever experienced myself: an inability to _feel_ the emotions you _know_ are there. Those who have not survived the sensation are powerless to help, or understand the magnitude of distress incited by the phenomena; many dismiss the phenomena as a "clear-cut" absence of emotion believed feigned by want of it (whether "it" is love, good will, or anguish). Under these conditions I desperately struggled to control my tendency to self-harm, and often failed. It is the same case of indulging in your substance of choice.

When we are unable to experience life and inhale the valor of it, we cling to whatever we believe will allow us to feel what we know exists beyond our current realm of feeling. Aligning the Solar Plexus will help you begin your journey into uncovering the source of the initial blockage to this energy center. Akin to recovery, it is not enough to stop using an addictive substance, you must figure out- and resolve- the underlying causes of the disorder to ensure it does not happen again.

Courtesy of Atarax

##### Affirmation for the Solar Plexus Chakra

I recognize the power within myself.   
I am the ruler of my own fate.   
I will let go of all negativity.   
I will continue to grow.

#### Crystal Healing for the Solar Plexus Chakra

The third chakra's color is yellow, and its place is _above_ the naval. To restore your sense of personal power, and relinquish all enfeebling you from achieving your full potential, envision a blooming golden lotus bud resting on your abdomen (where you will place your healing crystal). Focus and pour your energy into the lotus to make it bloom.

Visualize all of the petals unfurling in immaculate pearls of sunrise rays. As each stream of light reveals itself, feel the beams dance over your body, and empower you with the will to achieve your goals. Allow this radiance to cascade and traipse the entirety of your frame, emanating from your third energy center. As the beams become more accessible, visualize your yellow lotus blossoming entirely.

Once you feel at peace, visualize your personal sun rays encircling your lotus clockwise, ultimately coming to rest in the center of it.

Crystals and gemstones to use for balancing the Solar Plexus include: tiger's eye, citrine, peridot (yellow- green if you are so inclined), pyrite, yellow tourmaline, **ametrine** (a mixture of amethyst and citrine), yellow calcite, and yellow jasper.

## The Heart Chakra

The heart center is the source of underlying turmoil for many struggling with addiction. At the center of our physical hearts, lies the fourth chakra, governing our ability to love and feel loved. When our heart chakras are properly aligned and brimming with universal energy, we are able to help others without getting sucked into their personal problems and frustration. A healthy heart chakra allows us to love those who are close to us, ourselves, and show compassion to people we know nothing of.

Feeling as if you are in constant war with the realm around you is an indication your fourth chakra may need some attention and attunement. Feelings of acute loneliness and isolation, even if you are surrounded by people who love you, signifies your heart center is in desperate need of healthy management. You may have constant relationship problems with your intimate partners, friends, and family.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

Without a steady sense of emotional wellbeing, committing yourself to recovery may be incredibly difficult if you are using addictive substances as a means to restore the innermost sense of home and truth; you must know addictive substances will never allow you to regain control of that aspect of your life. Feeling freely, and exposing yourself to the full spectrum of your emotions is critical for healing to take place. Continuing to hide behind your substance of choice permits your heart to remain locked up. An inability to trust and let people into your life is a manifestation of a blocked heart chakra.

Heart Chakra by Mirzolot Licensed CC by 3.0

##### Affirmation for the Heart Chakra

I will embrace the universal energies encircling me,

to energize my spirit and those present.

I am the source of undying love and trust.

Where I am there is peace, fulfillment, and love.

#### Crystal Healing for the Heart Chakra

Rescuing a heart in need with crystal healing helps to infuse your heart chakra with loving energy from the earth itself- lending well to extending curative restoration to both the upper and lower chakras. As the bridge in which the lower and higher vibrational energies center meet, the heart serves as a mediator between the planes of the physical and ethereal.

To connect with your heart chakra lie on your back and place a green colored gemstone on your heart center. Feel the outpouring of love and creation the universe went into creating the stone sitting before you. Spread your consciousness to enable yourself to feel the energy radiating from the crystal, and envelop that same energy directing into your heart center.

As you continue to take in this energy visualize a green lotus slowly opening up to reveal a sparking ball of energy manifesting from its center. This will serve as your pure heart crystal. See the shimmering rainbows in the presence of your pure heart and allow yourself to soak in the rays. Feel the energy radiating throughout your entire body, spirit, and mind- swathing yourself in the healing light. Sit like this until you feel as if you are whole and able to love outwardly and inwardly.

Gemstones ideal for the heart chakra include: Rose Quartz, Pink Tourmaline, Rhodochrosite, Malachite, and Chrysophrase.

## The Throat Chakra

As you may imagine, the throat chakra governs our ability to communicate ourselves vocally and express our innermost feelings. Those with healthy throat chakras are able to handle the truths of their lives, and are confident enough to stand up for themselves and against the things they do not believe in. The fifth chakra plays an integral part of establishing connections with others; if we are unable to communicate our _honest_ thoughts we are unable to make lasting connections and life lines with those who matter.

In cases where the throat chakra is blocked, we may suffer from compulsive lying, or the inability to stand up for ourselves entirely- allowing events to unfold in our lives without taking action or vocalization against them.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

Those with substance use disorders may have a tendency to be manipulative, which is a function of an imbalance within the Throat chakra. It is not that people suffering from addiction are purposefully attempting to lie to their families and loved ones- although it does come into play with addiction, as our brain chemistry is perverted- this aliment is further cemented with an impeded throat chakra. Hiding one's true feelings, and harboring harmful secrets for others, or _from_ others, cause acute imbalances in our ability to communicate to others and ourselves.

Throat Chakra by Mirzolot licensed CC by 3.0

##### Affirmation for the Throat Chakra

I am a vessel of truth,  
And I will speak against things needing voice.  
My spirit will reverberate from my words,  
and enact the change I wish to see.

#### Crystal Healing for the Throat Chakra

Realigning your throat chakra sanctions the acknowledgement the things you have to say are important and worthy of being expressed. Do not allow your self-doubt to keep you silent against the world. Without your input you cannot shape the lives of those around you for the better- nor will you be able to effectively enact change in your own life when muted. Relax yourself and place your hands on your throat, feel the heat emanating off your body, and force this pulse outward until you feel the pulsation in your hands. When you can feel its steady beat place a gemstone of your choosing from the list below to help unfurl the fetters of your Throat chakra.

Once you place the stone on the energy center visualize the radiating pulse you felt with your hand communicate with the stone and invite blue light into the expanse of your skin. Feel the power of emotive communication radiating through you- solidify, in your mind's eye, your will to speak- and bask in the reverberation of this feeling until you intuitively feel full and complete.

Gemstones for the Throat Chakra include: Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite, Turquois, Aquamarine, Larimar, Celestite, and Blue Lace Agate.

## The Third Eye Chakra

The Third Eye chakra governs your ability to sense your intuition and act upon it. Some think of the third eye as their connection to the inner conscious which helps us discern from right and wrong- questioning whether or not we are acting in the best interests of ourselves and others. Many in the New Age field purport the development of the sixth sense lies within the awakening and expansion of the Third Eye. This energy center is located between the middle of your eyes.

The sixth chakra rules over inner knowing and perception, without this energy center aligned, one is predisposed to lapsing into repeat behavior, directly endangering your recovery undertakings. Personal morals may be ignored in favor of attaining something of instant gratification. Impulse takes over, and we lose control of the government of our mind and actions.

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

Addiction is a disease closely associated with the perils of impulse; an absent, or misaligned Third Chakra allows impulses to continue unchecked, correlating to the direct contribution to addiction. Feelings of unguided purposelessness often precipitate the use of addictive substances, and predispose us to wallow in the misery of not having a higher calling or purpose, beyond our material existence.

Remedying our third eye lies within the stimulation of the mind and wonder in the universe. Indulge in reading philosophical literature, rekindling your sense of mystery of the world around you. Get outside of yourself by acknowledging the vastness of all we do not know nor understand at this time. Allow your mind to grow beyond the constraints of our physical realm and feel the energies around you as sources of exploration of the mind and spirit.

Courtesy of Lene Sevcikova

##### Affirmation for the Third Eye Chakra

I will not hide from my inner calling.  
Uprooting every internal obstacle,  
I will strip bear the truth,  
and wield my spirit as an instrument of wonder,  
who marvels the universe and spirits around me.

#### Crystal Healing for the Third Eye Chakra

Stirring the Third Eye chakra requires the stimulation of the energy center between your eyes. Envision the opening of the third eye in a literal sense, and imagine a beam of purple light emanating from its core, filling your mind with insight from all the realms you cannot see. Visualize an inner door inside of you creaking open and revealing crystalline light to the core of yourself you have been avoiding. Feel its warmth enter you and accept the clarity it brings. Open yourself to new feelings, thoughts, and impressions- even if they do not feel like your own. By doing this we give way so our subconscious may speak out.

Gemstones stimulating the Third Eye chakra include: Sapphire, lepidolite, sugalite, Clear Crystal Quartz, Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli, and purple Fluorite.

## The Crown Chakra

The Crown Chakra governs our spirituality and inner connectedness. Engaging with meditation and yoga are excellent means to subtly heal the crown chakra. We cannot force religious or spiritual sentiment, yet the Seventh chakra serves as our connection to higher being and entities. When it is properly aligned we identify with the universal truth of spirituality. The awakening of the seventh chakra expands our willingness to look beyond material objects, and extend our reach towards attaining spiritual fulfillment in the realization the universe's fate is interconnected with our own. The Crown Chakra "allows us to experience mystical oneness with everyone and everything in nature. . . it] is both a receiver and giver of energy and consciousness."[xxxviii

#### Why an Imbalance May Contribute to Addiction

Without a higher calling, or without hope of an afterlife- in whatever manifestation, the morality and futility in the grace of nothingness can lead us to planes of substance abuse we may never recover from. Although religion is never a necessary part of holistic healing and recovery, the connectedness many experience through religious enterprises is self-evident with programs like the infamous 12-steps.

Courtesy of Nricsi

##### Affirmation for the Crown Chakra

The essence of spirit travels freely through me.  
I am open to reveal the heart of the universe,  
and I will listen to her whispers.

#### Crystal Healing for the Crown Chakra

Since the Crown Chakra is located at the top of the head, it makes sense our attentions would be focused there. Imagine a bright light funneling down from the heavens and touching upon your crown. Listen to any divine messages or inklings you receive, and know they come from a source of love, trust, and truth.

Gemstones associated with the Crown Chakra: Amethyst, Clear Crystal Quartz, and Diamond.

Chakra alignment is achieved through many means, diverting from north meditation and crystal healing; yoga, chanting, and color therapy are equally effective. By whichever means you achieve physical, emotional, and spiritual equilibrium matters not. It is the journey pioneered holding all meaning.

_Affirmations_

# Daily Affirmations

#### What Is a Daily Affirmation?

Daily affirmations are mini self-dedications, or prayers many people use to help themselves stay focused on achieving both short and long term goals. 12 step programs are famed for their many affirmations throughout treatment, but many spiritual practices use affirmations to help practitioners get through their days. In terms of boosting your self-esteem, you can remind yourself throughout the day that yes, you are amazing!

#### Does Mirror Talk Make Me a Narcissist?

Taking daily affirmations one step further, you can use mirror-talk to boost your self-esteem, by speaking to yourself in the mirror, and reminding yourself that you are a beautiful spirit inside and out. If it is hard for you to look at yourself in a mirror at all (I am constantly ducking from reflective surfaces!) mirror talk is a great way that will help you accept yourself for who you are.

##### Even if the person you are right now is not where you ultimately wish to be, it is important to love yourself throughout your entire journey.

Just because you want to shed a few pounds, do something drastic with your hair, or clear your acne up, does not mean you are any less worthy of embracing who you are right this every minute! In order to enact the change you wish to see, embracing yourself now is critical to help motivate you to make those changes. Think about it this way: if you do not care about yourself, or what happens to you, do you really think you are going to have the drive to make the changes you want to create for yourself?

##### Affirming your self-worth is absolutely essential to progress in your emotional, spiritual, and sometimes physical, development.

So, does mirror talk make you a crazed, self-absorbed, narcissist? No.

Mirror talk can help you embrace a healthy perception of yourself when you are prone to loathing every waking aspect of your entire being. And no, you do not have to wallow in self-odium every day to benefit from mirror talk and daily affirmations. Reminding yourself of your worth is not limited to those with self-esteem issues.

##  Affirmations to Boost Self Esteem

Even if you are not battling a substance use disorder, you may be at risk for developing self-harming behavior if you have low self-esteem. In fact, many instances of substance use disorders stem from acute self-esteem problems (specifically, a lack thereof). Outside of therapy, there are small things you can do every day to reduce your anxiety and accept yourself for the wonderful, loving person you are- but may have difficulty showing to the rest of the world.

Low self-esteem may manifest in over-compensating for qualities one believes they lack- sometimes making them difficult to be around. You can spot someone with low self-esteem a mile away if they seem to be unable to accept a compliment. Loving yourself can sometimes be one of the hardest things we have to do, but it is essential that we finally figure out how to tear down the barriers we erect around ourselves.

Bring on the mood boosters! Here is a collection of daily affirmations you can say to yourself throughout the day. You do not need to say them in any particular order, nor one physical space. Feel free to recite the following (or variations of) at home, out and about, in the office- and anywhere else your confidence needs a boost. Try your hand at writing some of your own too.

I create safe sacred space wherever I roam.  
Where I am, I am home.

I am as beautiful as the people around me.  
I am strong, independent, and capable of making the changes I want to see.

I am worthy of my love and self-respect.  
I will remember to love myself.

I will embrace those around me and accept their love.

I will take responsibility for the energy I contribute to this room.  
I am brimmed with happiness and eternal joy!

I am blessed for the people in my life,  
and I will work to share in theirs.

The things I do not like will melt away when my mind is set to purpose.

I can achieve anything I set my mind to.  
My will is stronger than my fears.

I embrace the universal love at my continual disposal,  
and channel positivity inward.

(For pet owners) I will love myself as (insert pet name here) does. For ****  
I am loved by her without ulterior motives.

I am the master of my own fate, and I choose to ****_Live._

I will tackle every obstacle before me,  
and it shall fall under my might.

I have the power to construct the reality I have always dreamed of.  
Nothing is lost or out of reach.

I am beautiful. I am love.  
I will give love and receive in kind.  
I am a new beginning.

##  Affirmations for Depression

Today I am the master of my fate.  
May every negative thought burn away,  
freeing me from the eternal grey.

I will seek happiness in every aspect of this day.  
May no stone be left unturned in the eternal search for joy.  
May every grain and wind dance in the spirit of my soul.

I will embrace the coming change to manifest my desires.  
No veil of woe shall silence or mute my ultimate goals.

I am the creator of my own happiness.  
I will reap the joy of sunshine in every pane of woe.

I promise to love myself today as I would love my child.  
I am the vessel to my legacy. Harm against me  
taints my children now and in future planned.

I will seize the happiness innate to universal love.  
May I bask in the glory of the small miracles of the day.

I will not be swallowed up.  
I will stand firm in the estimation of myself,  
and dreams to be achieved.

Today I make steps to change my fate.  
Every hallow crevice shall be filled with purpose,  
and I will soar to my dreams.

Today I will not despair.  
Today will be an unimaginable font of joy,  
from the smallest to obscure grandiose.  
The sun will hear my prayer  
and light my day with  
rays of joy.

##  Affirmations to Start Something New

Today I dedicate myself to the dreams  
I have kept in boxes.  
Today I take the step to make manifest my dreams  
and plan to overtake the world by storm!

I will take action to deliver myself from the storms of my life.  
I will create the utopia of my mind in measured steps.  
Every day until I have achieved all I have dreamt.

No obstacle, no doubt, or inner voice will prevent me  
from soaring this day!  
I will forge forward to complete the tasks I lay out for myself.

I banish every inkling of "tomorrow."  
Today is the day

I will not allow my fears to cripple my potential.  
Today I tap into the inner wealth I deny myself  
and unleash the spirit dormant inside!

##  Affirmations to Achieve Your Goals

I am the font of creation within my life.  
Success is just beyond my feet.  
All I need is to step forward and grab it!

By today's end I will succeed in all I worked for.  
Nothing will stop me from accomplishing my task.

Today I dedicate myself to accomplishing the words I speak.  
There will be no promise unfulfilled,  
nor intent ignored.

I am the energy of transformation.  
There are no obstacles from blocking my path to manifestation!

I will be the force of change I aspire.  
No influences exist to derail me from my path of  
the future.

##  Affirmations to Remember Recovery Is Possible

Recovery is forever in my grasp.  
I will reach out and take every opportunity  
to speed me to health.

Today I let go of everything in the past.  
I forsake the needle, the pill, and the blunt.  
I am the creator of my fate.  
I will _not_ be ruled.

Today I will manifest a heart of stone to everything  
which brings me misery.  
I will relinquish everything in my life  
burning all I hold dear to asunder.

This life is _mine_.  
I will live it to the best of my capabilities.  
Recovery is a breath away, and each gasp I take  
will be for the betterment of my future.

Should there exist any aspects of myself in which I despise,  
I transmute odium into hope.  
I am not defined by my actions of the past,  
but the glories of the future!

I will create the energies of healing in every action of today.  
My will is stronger than my doubt.

There is no place I will fear.  
I go forth in perfect love and trust of my recovery goals.

_Oracle Decks_

#  Oracle Decks for Recovery

###  What Is an Oracle Deck, and Is it Evil?

If you have ever seen an oracle deck, without being familiar with it, you may confuse them for tarot cards- and while the two are similar, they have marked differences creating two unique experiences. But before I launch into the beneficial aspects of this vibrational healing therapy, I would like to address the stigma surrounding tarot cards and oracle decks. It is no secret many reject the use of tarot and oracle decks, because some religions notions believe the practice to be "evil-" akin to other means of divination. Yet this branding of tarot and oracle decks alike is a common misconception; likely stemming from hostile histories of Pagan conversions to Christianity resulting in the defilement of a once sacred art. The stereotype was then exacerbated by later prejudice against gypsies. The Bible asserts followers of Christ "shall not interpret omens of tell fortunes," or "burn his son or daughter as on offering,"xxxix claiming "anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens. . . is] a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead." [xl

If this notion has been ingrained into your being since childhood, and you feel uncomfortable traversing any farther, please proceed to the next chapter. Yet if you are willing to entertain an alternate opinion to what is an art surrounding your vibrational energy, similar to crystal healing, I entreat you to read on.

Foremost, consider the construction of oracle decks: merely ink and glossy paper, produced in a factory and shipped to retailers. There are no ignoble rituals, hexes, or any such "paranormal" or "occult" happenings. Many use oracle decks as a means of self-discovery, and derive comfort from the messages printed on the cards. There are innumerable decks in existence spanning from angels, dragons, flowers, and faeries complimenting the interests of all who enjoy them. The oracle differs in the tarot simply in the number of cards (sometimes) and presentation. Tarot cards are stiff in their interpretation, and _always_ follow a formulaic inclusion of certain cards, whereas oracles may be constructed around a central theme (like romance and relationships), or the creator has the freedom to fashion cards differing from the normally expected construction of a tarot deck.

For instance, the tarot is comprised of 22 major arcana cards and 56 minor arcana cards. Each are divided into four suites to represent the elements, controlling certain aspects of our mentalities; fire for creative passion, water for emotions and nurturing, earth for grounding and monetary concerns, and air as a symbol of the mind. Oracle decks may draw upon these elements and construction for inspiration, yet they are not bound to them. Think of oracle decks as free verse poetry, as opposed to form poetry.

###  The Purpose of Oracle Decks

For general holistic use, oracle decks are used to help users find purpose, and to direct their thoughts in constructive means, elucidating underlying thoughts and emotions not apparent to the subconscious mind. Oracle reading is yet another form of vibrational healing and medicine, where we rely on our intuition to guide our fingertips to the cards revealing the indwelling aspects of our lives. Unlike traditional tarot cards, many oracle decks print the meaning of each card under the artwork to help speed understanding of the card's meaning.

One may interpret the symbolism portrayed in the art depicted on the card, coupled with either thematic phrasing, or short sentences. Undoubtedly one's initial intuitive impressions should be immediately heeded. Do not second guess yourself. Many Oracle readers begin the day with a morning reading, and draw a card for guidance throughout the day. In my personal experience with both tarot cards and oracle cards, I have been able to face underlying fears, anxieties, and unnecessary fonts of turmoil by listening to what the cards communicate. Because I am someone who has difficulty understanding the full extent of my feelings, as a result of bottling them, sometimes the cards offer me the wake-up call I need. Oracle decks are not works of "magic," but rely on our own understanding of the situations around us. The boon of an oracle deck lies within its ability to encourage us to contemplate our own behaviors, and _take action to prevent unwanted outcomes._

What is essential to remember about any reading is this:

##### All readings are circumstantial, and are a direct reflection of your situation _now;_ by no means should any readings be accepted as preordained and immortal.

W hich is to say, if you draw an unfavorable card depicting emotional turmoil, this is a reflection of your current state, and not your personal perennial state of affairs for the rest of your days. When working with Oracle cards it is helpful to follow a simple three card spread, to represent your past, which influenced your current circumstances, the present situation you find yourself grappling with, and the future outcome if your circumstances remain- for better or worse.

Working with Oracle cards can be intensely spiritual work, and many couple the practice by asking their God to bless the readings to receive divine guidance. And yes, I know plenty of Christians who happily use Oracle decks without any feelings of guilt. They regale their experiences as emotionally relaxing, stirring powerful thoughts of change. The same can be said of those who do not follow the Christian faith. Oracle decks are merely one more tool in your arsenal of holistic healing to help you overcome underlying unrest. Many spreads (or arrangement of cards) encourage you to seek out the heart of trouble brewing within your breast with aims to rectify the problem immediately- typically by taking some course of action, such as forgiveness, acceptance, or close examination of one's actions.

###  Using an Oracle for Recovery

If you are wondering how an oracle deck may help you in your recovery from a substance use disorder, consider the innate benefits of the art, as a means of piercing into the innermost crux of your decent into addiction. The Oracle serves as a guide to sharpen your thoughts on the task at hand: recovery. You may ask questions like, "What is stunting my recovery growth?" "How may I better understand the world around me?" "How can I get on without my drug of choice?" "What do I have to do to be happy?"

You will always have to interpret the Oracle's card meanings, as they relate directly to your life. Maybe your mother is represented by a Goddess figure, and you, a phoenix rising above the ashes of addiction. Of course, the imagery of each deck varies. There is no right or wrong deck to choose for your practice, as long as there is resonance. Alike crystal healing, you form a spiritual bond with your cards, as they will absorb the energies you put into them. Oracle decks require smudging after every use to help keep them in their best shape, and to eliminate residual energies from other readings, which may have no bearing on your current inquiry. Others who handle your deck should cleanse the cards before and after use as well- just as is expected when handling healing crystals.

In fact, many crystals may be used in conjunction with Oracle reading to help illuminate card meanings by tapping into your third eye chakra, which governs your perception and intuition. Pairing readings with quartz crystal, amethyst, and lapis lazuli will help quiet your mind to embrace the messages your cards are attempting to pass along.

The intent of using an oracle as part of your healing either before, during, or after treatment is to carry your accord of recovery to term. Summoning and laying to rest the underbelly of addiction cannot be avoided. Remain on the steady path of healing and consider asking questions like:

###  The Three Card Spread

Drawing a three card spread is one of the simplest means of deriving value from your oracle deck, and offers enough perspective into the energies surrounding the answer you seek. Use one of the many questions above, or rely on your own sense of curiosity. Make sure the questions you pose to your deck are open-ended, and do not require a simple "yes or no." If you want to know if you will recover, do not ask, "Will I recover from my addiction?" instead try "How will I recover from my addiction?" Or "What forces will allow me to recover from my addiction?"

As mentioned earlier, a three card spread represents three phases of your life which have each contributed to the situation of the question at hand. The first card represents the immediate _past_ which has allowed the manifestation of events to unfold; the second card reflects an aspect of your _present_ situation; the third card drawn represents the impending _outcome_ should the alignment of energies remain the same. In the image above, we see, from left to right, _Workshops and Seminars, Heart Chakra, and Release._ Without knowing what the question is, we can assume a recent professional event (perhaps a lecture of some sort has given rise to fulfillment of the heart chakra, which will eventually release the reader from aliment, if she continues on her path by teaching others, and learning from those around her.

In the same way we have interpreted the meaning of these cards, mirror the same for your own recovery means.

###  Choosing a Deck for Recovery

There are hundreds of both Tarot and Oracle decks on the market, and despite what anyone says, (some purists _insist_ beginners start their journey on the archaic Rider Waite tarot deck, or the Lenormand Oracle) you must choose a deck that speaks to you. Any metaphysical shop typically carries both types of deck in stock. You will most likely be able to purchase both crystals and oracle decks from the same store. Conversely, you may browse the internet for oracle decks, and look at each card inside before making an investment. Many artists take to their own expression and design their own decks, having them produced for sale on websites like _Etsy._

My personal favorite oracles are _Nature's Whispers Oracle Cards,_ with artwork from the infamous new age artist Josephine Wall, _Energy Oracle Cards_ by Sandra Anne Taylor _, Imperial Dragon Oracle_ by Andy Baggott & Peter Pracownik, _Gaia Oracle_ by Toni Carmine Salerno, and the _Earth Magic Oracle Cards_ by Steven D. Farmer. Each deck heralds hopeful imagery coupled with beautiful scenescapes of nature, mythological creatures, and snippets of inspirational quotes. Those cards without meanings printed directly on them come with a mini book of discourse for easy travel.

Should you embrace Oracle reading as a tool of recovery, always remember your destiny is not ruled by the draw of the card. If you see something unfortunate approaching in the immediate future, remember you are in control to direct the energies in your life by _taking action._ Do not rely too heavily on the use of oracle cards to make decisions, they should not serve as a crutch, but a guiding light to govern yourself in the best interests of sobriety.

An important rule of thumb when drawing cards is to ask questions only once. If you do not receive a clear response, try again in a week, but reframe your wording. Induce an ideal state for accessing the highest planes of your intuition by lighting your favorite candle or incense and submerging yourself in the expanse of ambient music. Receptivity is the key to any metaphysical art. Flouting subtlety is taboo. If your mind, body, and spirit are not actively engaged in the art of card reading, your Oracle's ability to burgeon recovery success diminishes severely. Trust your instincts and only do what feels natural.

_The Art of Tea Drinking_

#  The Art of Tea Drinking

Let me begin this chapter by apologizing for a title which may mislead. "The Art of Tea Drinking" for the purposes of this book should not be confused with the venerable Asian art of tea ceremony. This chapter is intended to give you an introductory understanding of the physical and psychological benefits to consuming tea on a regular basis. There are four "true" forms of tea which include black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea. All tea is derived from a plant called Camellia sinensis. Herbal teas are infusions of the plant they are derived from. For instance, mint tea, does not stem from Camellia sinensis, but mint- as such, it is not considered a "true tea." While herbal tea may, or may not, herald properties of cancer fighting agents and lung protectants, herbal tea may be used in the art of tea leaf reading. Why include a section about tea in a book slated for holistic healing and addiction recovery? Studies conclude green tea augments working memory- a key component in helping overcoming chronic substance use disorders, and mild instances of substance abuse.

##  Memory's Role in Addiction Recovery

The deficit of cognition is ascribed to a lack of grey matter, likening one's impaired ability to control impulsive behavior and ignore cravings. (Children and teenagers' brains are not yet fully developed, which makes them more susceptible to developing a substance use disorder.)

There are easily assessable activities you can perform on your own to strengthen cognition and fight addiction biologically:

  * Practice Mindful Meditation

  * Get Active

  * Explore Creative Pursuits; writing, art, dance, music, etc.

  * Establish and maintain social connections

  * Play Brain Training Games (there are tons of apps for that!)

  * Go to Bed!

###  What Is Mindful Meditation?

If you ask a meditation expert what the difference between "meditation" and "mindful meditation" is, you might get a mixed response. The central theme to remember is meditation serves as a means to delve into the innards of yourself, and discover the indwelling nature of your spirit outward. Mindful Meditation awakens awareness to the mind's function; as in, we become aware we are thinking _when_ we are thinking, and are privy to _why_ our thoughts form.

Mindful meditation relies on the continual monitoring of thought, to identify problem areas and address them; the avoidance of rashness in physicality, emotive outbreak, and spiritual degradation speed tumult away from jeopardizing inner calm.

### Just Go to Bed!

I mean it. **Getting a full eight hours of sleep will do a world of wonders for that big beautiful noggin of yours!** When we sleep, our brains absorb everything we have been exposed to during the day. Without proper amounts of sleep you are squandering all of the hard work you have put in to yourself to make a difference in your behavior. You can drink all the tea in your cabinet, but if you are not exposing yourself to stimuli requiring the absorption of information, your cognitive ability will not improve. Therefore establishing a healthy sleep regimen is imperative. According to Christopher Bergland, of _Psychology Today,_

_  
__"Imaging studies have suggested that sleep disturbances may be associated with structural brain changes in certain regions of the frontal lobe. The surprising thing about this study is that it suggests poor sleep quality is associated with reduced gray matter volume throughout the entire frontal lobe and globally in the brain."_ xli

##  Green Tea Boosts Working Memory

The University of Basel found green tea improves working memory, and helped participants excel in activities dependent upon remembrance. xlii Those who consumed green tea extract experienced increased connectivity between the frontal and parietal lobes of the brain, which govern critical thinking, comprehension of sensory stimuli and language, respectively. Although several cups of tea (about five daily) are required to match the potency of the extract, drinking green tea can only help in your recovery journey. There does not yet exist extensive study into memory improvement from green tea, but initial findings prove hopeful, and merit mention in this text for personal experimentation. If nothing else, the psychological benefits of drinking tea will help as an alternative to engaging in harmful behavior, prompting relaxation and focus when engaged with other activities.

##  The Psychological Boons of Tea

As a storied tea drinker myself, I shall be the first to tell you drinking tea makes everything better. Tea drinking foments heightened concentration by stimulating both senses of smell and taste (not to mention, tea can help keep hunger pangs at bay when a snack may impede an artistic flow). Yet beyond my own personal experiences with tea drinking, the _American Journal of Clinical Nutrition_ credits tea as nearly the sole producer of Theanine, an amino acid responsible for the production of improved cognitive performance. Theanine converts to both serotonin, and dopamine. xliii These two major neurotransmitters play an essential role in drug and alcohol addiction. When addictive substances are introduced into the body, an influx of dopamine and serotonin surge into the blood stream, inducing feelings of euphoria. The bliss manifested by the potency of the drug is the central diving force enrapturing those with substance use disorders to "chase the high."

After repeated abuse, without addiction treatment, damage to both organically produced serotonin and dopamine become compromised and may cease altogether- perpetuating depression, feelings of insignificance, and emptiness. Eating foods- and in this case, drinking tea- infused with serotonin and dopamine (or theanine), help the brain to recover and learn how to function without the presence of addictive substances. Since all "true teas" contain theanine, you may choose any tea of your preference.

The _American_ _Journal of Clinical Nutrition_ notes one's alertness increases after drinking tea, and improves mood: "Tea consumption (as well as a positive control) positively affected pleasantness of mood immediately after consumption compared with water." Those consuming more than five cups of green tea daily reportedly have lower levels of anxiety,xliv ascribing tea as the direct reflection of an increased ability to rebound from stress. In terms of drinking tea for the benefit of addiction recovery, one can readily drink tea to combat cravings when they arise to enter a state of calm and improve focus to another task actively decided upon.

Constructing a clear-cut strategy to avert intense cravings is essential, and drinking tea has both psychical and psychological boons to serve these ends. Sipping tea is no longer simply an act of habit, or convenience, but may be wielded as a recovery tool when espoused with other fonts of healing and rehabilitation guidance.

## Reading Tea Leaves

Now that the empirical evidence of tea drinking is on the table, we can couple drinking tea with the holistic art of interpreting tea leaves. Formally called tasseomancy, the art of reading tea leaves derives its power from the interpretation of symbols revealed in the placement of remaining leaves after the tea has been consumed. Anyone may practice tea reading. All one needs to begin their personal study in tasseomancy is loose tea, a teacup (preferably white, or light in color) and a saucer.

You may use any type of tea or herbal "tea," as long as the leaves are not in powdered form, or otherwise grainy. Paramount to tea reading is the use of full-fledged tea leaves. Reading the symbols appearing in your cup may take a bit of practice, but if you rely on your initial impressions and intuition, you should be able to meander your way to the correct interpretation of your spread of leaves.

Incidentally, in order to commit to the true art of tea reading, loose teas should be brewed in a teapot, and poured directly into your teacup. Simply heaping a pile of tea leaves into your mug will not do. (Although, I am a proponent of following your intuition- and if that is what feels right, who am I to say you are wrong?)

###  How to Read Tea Leaves

 After you have brewed your cup of tea, you are ready to start gleaning wisdom from the ancient Chinese practice of tea reading. Begin by pouring from the teapot while concentrating on the question you wish to find answers to. (You may refer to page 99 for suggested questions surrounding recovery.) Drink your tea in awareness of your question, and do not rush. Enjoy the experience. Light candles or incense to help you transition from your everyday being to an environment conducive to higher vibrational energy. Once you have drained your teacup to the bottom of the mug turn it three times counter clockwise (there should be a smidgen of water left) and flip your teacup over on the saucer. Leave it there for 30 seconds. When you turn the cup over, you should ask your question either internally or vocally one last time. Take care to place your teacup upright again to reveal the message in the leaves. You may have to turn the cup this way or that, to make sense of the image- but a symbol should appear to you. The leaves closer to the top of the rim are events that are to come in the near future, while leaves strewn closest to the handle represent the querent, and the bottom leaves represent fates to arise in the long term future. xlv

My personal affinity for reading tea leaves does not translate well by itself. For those in the same predicament (sometimes I simply cannot make heads or tails of the images in my cup) investing in a book of symbolism may be helpful in decoding the messages of tea reading. _Tea Leaf Reading for Beginners_ by Caroline Dow is an excellent start to begin your tutelage into the art.

If you want to go one step further to align the elements of certain herbs, which possess varying affinities for love, luck, and success, as examples- you may elect to choose an herb matching the frame of your question. For instance, if you were to inquire about a love interest, Chamomile tea would be a natural selection, as it is said to attract love. The following are suggested teas coupled with their corresponding relevancies as presented in Scott Cunnungham's _Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs."_

###  The Properties of Specific Teas

Bergamot (Earl Grey Tea): Success, Moneyxlvi   
Anise Tea: Protection, Purification, Sprightlinessxlvii   
Apple Tea: Love, Healing xlviii   
Lemon Balm Tea: Love. Success, Healing xlix   
Blueberry Tea: Protection l   
Cinnamon Tea: Spirituality, Success, Healing, Power, Love, Protection li   
Echinacea Tea: Strength lii   
Eucalyptus Tea: Healing, Protection liii   
Ginseng Tea: Love, Wishes, Healing, Beauty, Protection, Lust liv   
Lavender Tea: Love, Protection, Sleep, Chasity, Purification, Happiness, Peace lv   
Lemon Tea: Longevity, Purification, Love, Friendship lvi   
Mint Tea: Money, Lust, Healing, Travel, Protection lvii   
Peach Tea: Love, Longevity, Fertility, Wishes lviii   
Peppermint/Spearmint Tea: Purification, Sleep, Love, Healing, Inner Strength lix   
Pomegranate Tea: Luck, Wishes, Wealth, Fertility, Interpretation lx   
Rose Tea: Love, Protection, Luck, Healing, Unlocking of Secrets lxi   
Rosemary Tea: Protection, Love, Lust, Mental Powers, Purification, Healing, Sleep lxii   
Sage Tea: Longevity, Wisdom, Protection, Wishes lxiii   
St. John's Wort Tea: Health, Protection, Strength, Happiness lxiv   
Thyme Tea: Health, Healing, Sleep, Love, Courage, Purification lxv   
Vanilla Tea: Love, Lust, Mental Powers lxvi   
Vervain/Verbena Tea: Love, Protection, Purification, Peace, Money, Sleep, Healing lxvii

_Adult Coloring_

#  Adult Coloring for Recovery

### Why Adult Coloring?

Before you throw this book on the floor (or push your screen over), give adult coloring your ear to explore the empirical benefits of zoning out while activating the creative parts of your brain. Art therapy is commonly employed in rehabilitation as a means to help recoverees explore alternative means of expressing themselves, without the crutch of their drug of choice. Coloring establishes at least one healthy habit to continue in the years of sobriety to come. Many have latent art talents yet untapped, and begin discovery in art therapy. Adult coloring books have become almost ridiculously popular, and after taking a look at the benefits of the hobby has to offer, I couldn't help placing an order for one myself.

##  Fighting Addiction with Coloring

What if you are not artistically gifted, or what if you are, but find creating from scratch entirely too much of a time commitment? Adult coloring can achieve both ends, and lends itself to original creation when one escapes the barriers of the lines. Aside from simple calming, coloring can help improve concentration, and serves as an escape from nagging thoughts. When looking for alternative means to deal with bouts of cravings, breaking out the colored pencils is one way to address psychologically stressful emotions. Coloring gives us an outlet to disengage with our conscious thoughts and focus on the task at hand.

Therapists are not too fond of adult coloring being touted in the realm of art therapy, nor are they thrilled the hobby is being considered meditatively inductive; despite the lack of evidence of the therapeutic benefits to coloring, those who participate in the activity report significant reductions in stress levels and diminished rates of anxiety. Heather Schwedel quotes Drena Fagen, an art therapist of New York University's Stenhardt School, weighs in,

####

"Any creative endeavor that can in some way help somebody discover something about themselves or find a space that makes them feel safe and comfortable or allows them an opportunity to be with their own thoughts, I do not see how we can criticize that. It seems like it is only bringing good things to the world."lxviii,

Art therapy coupled with cognitive behavioral therapy has proven to lessen instances of panic attacks. Mariam Adawiah Dzulkifli and Muhammad Faiz Mustafar found color plays a prominent role in the retention and improvement of working memory, and may be utilized to help people suffering with dwindling memory. lxix With addiction and recovery considered in this context, cognition games with vivid warm colors (reds, oranges, and yellows) can help improve working memory, and thus help speed recovery and prevent instances of relapse by solidifying one's intent to recover- implementing coping strategies learned in rehabilitation.

One might be able to wield the psychology of color to help them stave off relapse travesties by coloring in conjunction with: declaring affirmative statements and charging crystals on the image right after, to imprint the vibrational energy of intent while coloring. Adult coloring does not have to remain in the realm of convention- it may be married to any holistic teaching in this book. Use coloring as a precursor to an oracle or tea reading with different hues of a specific color to heighten the affinity of your query. Working through your chakra meditations? Choose colors associated with each chakra to activate the subtle bodies while eliminating the anxiety of performing a holistic art. Often we hold ourselves back when we think "we are not doing it right." Coloring will help transport our thoughts from anxiety to stillness, and prepare our mind, body, and spirit to open up to the impressions of the energies around us.

For instance, you may choose to couple healing your heart chakra by choosing imagery with a heart, and filling in the image with hues of greens and pinks. While doing so, place a rose quartz on the corner of the page, or even tuck it where the stone may reside on your skin. As you focus on healing the heart chakra, through actively sensing the energy center and pouring your feelings out onto the page, you are engaging in three different types of healing: chakra, crystal, and coloring. Although many disavow coloring of being worthy to couple with therapy, the task serves to encourage you to get out of your comfort zone and to experience new things.

### Mandalas

#### What Is a Mandala?

Mandala translates into "circle" in Sanskrit, and represents the conjuration of the celestial bodies of the sun, moon, and stars as they appear in our mortal realm in nearly every aspect of life; from humans to flowers, symbolisms of oneness and community, circles enrapture our lives and promote the unending cycle of energy. Mandalas are used in wakeful meditation, and should be gazed upon to evoke higher planes of thought. Staring deeply into the intricate pattern may grant you impressions of the questions swirling inside your head. There are many adult coloring books for mandalas. Coupled with the psychology of color, you can create entire sketchbooks comprised of different colors to evoke a predetermined mood. If you are often depressed, consider coloring a spritely yellow and orange mandala to give your emotions a much needed burst of gaiety.

##  Doodling for Improving Memory

Let us not leave out the benefits of doodling. In direct benefit to recovery, doodling improves working memory, and augments concentration when performed during tasks requiring memorization- like rehabilitation (coping methods, craving strategies, relapse prevention, etc.). Non-doodlers underperformed by 30% when given a surprise memory test. lxx When writing in your recovery journal, feel free to let your creativity wander in the blank spaces of the page, and allow yourself to experience your indwelling sense of comfort without containment. Sunni Brown'slxxi infamous Ted Talk emphasizes doodling engages all centers of learning, and may elicit an emotional response while doing so; only two of the four learning centers must be activated to commit information to memory.

Doodling can help you understand unexpressed feelings in the symbolism found in recurring themes of doodles. Some assert there can be no derived meaning from doodles, yet M.Farouk Radwan MSc. an avid graphologist, asserts doodles help paint a window into our emotional states of being. The types of faces, shapes, and images emerging from a doodlers pen echoes thoughts unexpressed or unconscious. lxxii Actively encouraging doodling can help focus your mind on recovery, especially when coupled with adult coloring, the psychology of color, and any other holistic healing technique presented in this text. Get creative, and start doodling to imbue your crystals with a specific symbol or power sigil you create!

Part of the recovery process is taking control of your fate by declaring and manifesting the state of your life by means of physical, emotional, and spiritual action. Holistic healing puts you in the perfect state of manifestation of tangible resolve and exertion.

###  The Psychology of Color

**Red:** Root Chakra, passion, survival, manifestation, pointed rage, conqueror, primal, passion

**Pink:** Community, love for all things, compassion, nurturing, sensitivity, empathy

**Orange:** Sacral Chakra, energy, possibilities, adventure, newness, zest, awakening

**Yellow:** Solar Plexus Chakra, happiness, spritely, invitation of community, acceptance, joy

**Green:** Heart Chakra, love, nature, zen, connection with the Earth, renewal, growth, equanimity

**Blue:** Throat Chakra, communication, inner contemplation, resolve, loyalty, calmness, peace

**Indigo:** Third Eye Chakra, development of gifts, perception, sincerity, intuition, wisdom

**Violet:** Crown Chakra, imagination, dream interpretation, spirituality

**Purple:** Royalty, refined, intuition, development, poise, grace, inner knowing, divination

**White:** Purification, cleansing, welcoming the future, endless possibilities, unlocking potential

**Black:** Banishing, protection, dispersal of negativity, letting go of the past

_Meditation_

# Meditation

##  What You Need to Know About Meditation & Recovery

Profound study validates the effectiveness of meditation to quell manic bouts of anxiety, mental anguish, and stress. What was once perceived madness in the absence of activity- what we, as Americans are programed to do in all points of the day (even if it is manic scrolling)- is necessary to help attain inner peace and grasp an acute look of our innate nature. Tim Kreider notes meditation as a vehicle to pursue our ultimate ends,

#### "The space and quiet that idleness provides is a necessary condition for standing back from life and seeing it whole, for making unexpected connections and waiting for the wild summer lightning strikes of inspiration- it is, paradoxically, necessary to getting any work done."lxxiii

In contrast to what many ascribe as a mere focus of breathing, meditation is a state of mind wherein introspective analysis occurs, processing emotions, thoughts of the present, and aspirations of the future come to heel. The active process of meditation entreats successful manifestation of our aspirations by catapulting us beyond our stymied development. In terms of recovery, meditation may be wielded as a means of transformation, and perhaps a powerful deterrent for relapse if practiced in the pursuit of inner knowledge, and has a release of unbridled emotions.

My father is a master of the martial arts, heralding an 8th degree black belt in Ju Jit Su, 4th degree black belt in Oyama Karate, a 3rd degree black belt in both Wu Su and Judo, and a four stripe red belt in Taekwondo. Practicing meditation every single morning, he prepares himself to conquer the day, describing his sessions as "me time," to evaluate, prepare, and rest; to let go of the trials of days past; arm himself for the day to come; and to guide what is to come in directions situating himself in the best possible progression towards the channels unlocking the doors to internal and outward progression.

When I was seven my father gifted me a dragon pendant. I wear his gem around my neck every day and night without fail. The pendant was given to him by his sensei, Master Little John, when he was also seven, and escaping from the waste of Harlem. Which should have rendered him hopeless against the fate of chronic addiction, thievery, homicide, and a young, painful death as an African American growing up in the tides of the Civil Rights movement of the 60- enduring aftermath in the 70s. My father found solace in martial arts and meditation.

This unfathomable treasure, gifted to him by the man who saved his life, is the anchor reminding me to always honor my father and his legacy. Conversely, the Dragon is emblazoned with a simple stone of onyx, which serves as a protection talisman- and I regard it as an "access point" where I can tap into a deep reservoir of personal power in moments of dire circumstance.

You too can benefit from a symbol which helps you to submerge yourself into the depths of your spirit to revel in the untapped tides of personal strength trapped by your inability to value the one person who can save you from yourself: you. Meditation will help you realize your full potential, and make you aware of the self-inflicted inhibitors preventing the haste of an assured recovery. Do not mistake me, meditation ought not be rushed, and should be practiced with the dedication to master a skill you will use for a lifetime of self-elucidation- to pass on to future generations. Yet, for the purposes of this introductory text, you will come away with a working knowledge of meditation and how to employ the other holistic healing arts found within the pages of this book.

Apart from the profound psychological donatives of meditation, there exist measured neurological boons of the practice- many of which overlap into pathways directly conducive of recovery. Ferris Jabr states meditation is responsible for augmenting "sophisticated mental abilities, like abstract thoughts and introspection." lxxiv The development of creative skills, and the ultimate pursuit of higher thought helps to stave off relapse, for people in recovery who are active after their time in rehabilitation focus their attentions to other means of fulfillment. Incidentally, Jabr notes meditation increased "the volume and density of the hippocampus" a region of the brain in direct control of memory. Subsequently, bolstering the hippocampus "thickens regions of the frontal cortex that we rely on to rein in our emotions; and it stymies the typical wilting of brain areas responsible for sustaining attention." lxxv If you recall from an earlier chapter, we assessed improving cognition and working memory is an essential component of helping to prevent relapse- one way to achieve those ends is practicing frequent meditation.

In regards to reducing anxiety and stress levels, Albert J. Arias, M.D. avows "meditation may be effective to treat anxiety _to a similar degree as antidepressant drug therapy._ "lxxvi If we keep in the forefront of our minds many antidepressants carry with them contrary side effects to both our physical wellbeing, and mental health (for instance, manifesting suicidal ideation) _not_ pursuing meditation as a means to free your psyche and physical body from the eventual evolution from prescribed anti-depressants, may not be in your best interests in the long run. Do be advised, however, to always heed your medical professional's treatment regimen. Although holistic healing spurs recovery along, it is never a suitable replacement for treatment, especially in the particularly delicate phases of recovery.

Meditation benefits all stages of recovery, before, during, and after rehabilitation. Meditation promotes neurological change and growth, improves our ability to practice self-control (an essential component of recovery,) reduces anxiety, and promotes quality communication; above all meditation allows you to become "comfortable with yourself, which makes it easier for others to get on with you," allowing your own perception of others to fall away from hyper criticality. lxxvii In terms of addiction exclusively, Alice. G. Walton introduces a study suggesting those who practice mindful meditation in rehabilitation are more likely to stave off manic bouts of cravings, which plunge hundreds into the near-fatal state of overdose:

"People who learned mindfulness were many times more likely to have quit smoking by the end of the training, and at 17 weeks follow-up, than those in the conventional treatment. This may be because meditation helps people 'decouple' the state of craving from the act of smoking, so the one does not always have to lead to the other, but rather you fully experience and ride out the 'wave' of craving until it passes."lxxviii

Including meditation to propel your personal recovery achieves all aspects of holistic healing: balancing of the mind, body, and spirit. Engaging in the meditative arts require nothing more than your physical body and mind. Should yours present a degree of unsteadiness, or inability to hold attention- do not fret. These qualities can be learned with practice and guidance from other meditation gurus. Do not write yourself off until you have given meditation an honest chance to work for you, and do not expect results right away. The hardest person to know is yourself, and the journey of knowing cannot be rushed, it must be experienced for each celebration and blunder to appreciate, and understand the expanse of your mind and spirit.

##  Harbor Village's Vito Pelikan on Meditation

Our resident life coach, Vito Pelikan, who hosts Life Tip Tuesday for Harbor Village, offering short bits of actionable advice to implement through the recovery process, has this to say of meditation, "Daily meditation allows time for people in recovery] to quiet their minds, which are often racing: thinking about case management situations and getting high. Forcible quiet time is essential to still the mind of outer conflicts and prompts inward reflection." [lxxix Pelikan believes meditation is an essential means of prevention to stave off relapse, and perhaps dwarf the waves of developing substance use disorders in the first place. If addiction runs in your genealogy, it may be wise to entreat the members of your family to practice meditation with you; group meditations are popular- and although they may not offer the introspective element m editation is famed for, including group meditation into your regimen helps to solidify a sense of unity within your immediate family relations and prompts healing in relations suffering from the strain of addiction.

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) emphasizes transmuting negative behaviors and thought patterns, whereas meditation offers those who practice it insight into the crux of their character, illuminating the source of disquiet. Pelikan assesses meditation and CBT "can exist in the same space. Meditation offers introspection, being cognizant. This is the precursor to CBT." lxxx Cognitive behavioral therapy is the forerunner of many addiction treatment programs, yet many who enter rehabilitation do not complete treatment or relapse within a short time of completing treatment- but _why?_

Many fail to utilize effective coping strategies to manage bouts of cravings, or to segue and allow positive influence to come from deep-seed emotions uprooted in therapy. As someone who can attest to the invaluable preparation _before_ therapy, meditation can help ground yourself for the furor to come. In my experience, when I went to therapy initially as a teenager, I did not expect the influx of emotions I suppressed over time to exacerbate my emotional instability. For me therapy sundered any state of peace I fitted together, and prompted me to relapse in a severity more extreme than my initial problems.

Understanding the importance of preparing yourself, and stabilizing your center, is essential to getting the most from therapy. If you are shocked into reticence, as I was, a therapist cannot help you unravel inner turmoil, nor thrust you towards sobriety, or abstinence from self-harm- you must allow them the tools to access your core- and that is safely done by grounding yourself. Meditation is one way achieve this. Pelikan suggests coupling meditation with open communication, deep breathing exercises, journaling, writing free association letters to your drug of choice, working out, or engaging in an art medium can be helpful to create an "intrinsic lotus of control."lxxxi My interest in wire wrapping, mentioned in the chapter on Crystal Healing was derived from my need to create stability in my life, while empowering myself to work with a medium I find therapeutic and helpful towards my emotional and spiritual progression. Be warned, losing yourself in a new hobby as a means of "preparation" should not prevent you from facing the fears and underlying roots of addiction in the guise of readying for rehab, if it is truly another form of negation. Pelikan lxxxiiregales,

##### "When you understand you can take [meditation] with you at any time, you are free of the notion of 'ceremony.' Practice in traffic, in waiting rooms- or wherever your mind wanders into unproductive planes.

"I love waiting rooms because I can zone out. Waiting in lines at the supermarket is another one of my favorite things to do- _just kidding  
_

##### Meditation is a mental state- the doing part is what enables meditation . . . you can do it digging a hole- as long as you are focused on _one_ thing. The real work begins when you are on your own. Meditation is not gay, it is bi. It is everyone's, everybody should do it."

#### A Note on the Various Forms of Meditation

There are innumerable forms of meditation as there are individual holistic healing arts. It is beyond the scope of this book to present a fully-fledged analysis of each meditative practice. In the interests of averting relapse and mending substance use disorders, I have selected the following forms of meditation, which I find to be most effective, somewhat unknown to many unfamiliar with the arts, and overall aimed towards uprooting and rectifying the underlying forces of addiction.

## Meditation Basics

Performing meditation is easier than you think. Many meditative arts focus on the control of breath, and emphasize the careful inhalation and exhale of the breath. As one moves closer and closer into a meditative state, one's awareness is heightened, and should focus inward. The trick is not to allow your mind to wander to things of immediacy. Some do this by concentrating only on breathing, and when they are aware of their digression, return to breathing. Others visualize all of their problems and stresses rushing away in a peaceful stream or gushing river from atop a mountain. However you choose to rid yourself of the woes of the mundane is not important. What _is_ important is the freeing of your mind. Sometimes lighting incense, candles, and smudging can help you assume this state. But remember, these fanfares are merely tools, they are not the driving force of meditation: _you are._ They are simply props allowing you to induce the mental state necessary to carry out your work.  
To assume a meditative state sit relaxed either on the floor, keeping your posture in mind, or in a straight back chair. (My first successful meditation I was lying on my bed- which is something typically not recommended. To each their own.) Become aware of your breathing and feel the swell of your presence consume you. Close your eyes and inhale for a count of seven, and exhale the same. Continue this deep breathing. An indication you are actively engaging in meditation successfully is the feeling of being free from the everyday stressors of life. Be content with the silence. Be still. Invite thoughts and impressions which may come, and contemplate them after your session.

The steps prescribed above are the very basics of meditation. Meditation can be joined with other means of holistic haling, like chakra balancing with the placement of stones and chromeo (color) therapy.

##  Metta: Kindness Meditation

The Pauli word for kindness and compassion is _Metta_. Emerging from Buddhist persuasions, this type of meditation, known collectively as Kindness Meditation, energies your sense of love, compassion, and unity to focus first inwards, and then outward to the people in your life; to those you know nothing of- and finally escalates to the embrace of universal love. During a session of kindness meditation, your aim is to remind yourself you are worthy of love, as are the lives around you. The focus of the particular discipline is to realize the extent of your influence over the people in your intimate circles, and illuminates how the perception of yourself, and the subsequent nurturing of your spirit translates into elevated mood, exuberance to experience life, and motivation to continue on the path to recovery.

Many self-medicate as a direct response to filling the hollow crevices of existence. Reconstructing these sometimes self-imposed deficits, by means of unpreventable biology, or simply the toils of life, is essential to speed recovery, and encourage people in recovery to remain committed to their promises of sobriety.

###  Steps to Practice Metta Meditation

Induce a meditative state with deep breathing. On each inhalation swell your being with loving energy and compassion. Feel yourself welling up with the spirit of hope and eternal devotion to yourself. If those feelings are foreign to you, or you have difficulty conjuring them on a whim, envision the people and things you do love, and realize your existence fills them with joy and serenity. Channel your benevolent impact on their lives into _you._

On every exhale imagine the poison you speak to yourself being expunged from your core, and visualize your self-doubt, insecurities, self-odium, and pernicious thoughts expelling from your body as black smoke. Continue this pattern until you are filled with the universal energy of love, and project it steadily inward. Imagine the light of love (you may visualize this light as pink or green, to correspond with the universal color for love, or the heart chakra respectively) pouring into every cell of your body. Visualize the energy traipsing each energy center starting from your feet, to your legs, abdomen, chest, throat, and head. Bathe in this light and feel yourself accepting yourself and letting go of past transgressions.

Go through the same process- save the expelling of negative energy- but channeling your loving energy into a loved one or a best friend. End the process when you feel you have poured as much love into them as you are able at the time.

Next focus on someone in your life who has no great bearing on it, and share your universal spirit energy with them. Think of their own family and loved ones, and how your acquaintance's existence makes theirs' whole. Learning to share your love and compassion for those around you allows your sense of ego to fall away, and make room for tolerance and acceptance.

To progress in the meditation focus your energy on someone who is difficult to love, yet channel your loving energy to them regardless of your differences. Learning to forgive and embrace one you do not meet eye to eye with will teach you how to accept misfortune with grace. Do not confuse sharing your energy with someone you have pitched from your life as a promise of reconciliation if you do not wish it to be. View it as the closure it is intended to be to heal aged wounds.

After you have channeled loving vibrations to someone who has been difficult in your life, focus on projecting equal healing and compassionate vibrations to all four equally. Gradually expand this love outward to the entire universe. If the prospect of projecting to the entire universe is too abstract, focus on people you deeply sympathize with. Whether it is the homeless, wounded veterans, refugees, victims of sexual assault, abused animals, or the devastated rainforest, allow them to serve as a guide to divert your love outward.

The goal of this type of meditation is to share yourself with the universe, to give love and receive love openly, without hesitation. When we are capable of uniting with the forces of humanity- in whichever form they lie, we position ourselves to better our spirit essence. The more at peace we are within, the better we are able to be confident in our abilities and facilitate healthy, meaningful relationships- which are critical to recovery.

##  Mindfulness Mediation

The goal of mindful meditation is just that: mindfulness. Whereas other forms of meditation seek to still the mind and quiet thoughts into a state of pleasant tranquility, mindful meditation is governed by the active pursuit of understanding our behaviors and impressions, and accepting them for what they are. Unlike cognitive behavioral therapy, which seeks to uproot and change harmful behaviors and ideologies, the act of mindful meditation is to simply acknowledge the culmination of ourselves, and accept it.

For those thoughts and notions we rather wished were contrary to their nature, provocative contemplation may evoke evolution of these dirges, transmuting into your desired outcome. _However,_ this would be divergent from the intrinsic nature of mindfulness. Mindfulness meditation is the active pursuit to accept, and observe your thoughts as they occur. Ideally, you should always be in a continual state of mindful thinking, where you are conscious of your word choice, and take responsibility for the energy you put forth into the universe. Beyond quiet contemplation, mindfulness is a life skill enabling you to become more aware of your waking actions.

###  Steps to Practice Mindful meditation

Assume the sedative state by controlling your breathing, but instead of quieting your mind, allow each and every thought occurring run through its course, and be mindful of it. The goal here is to remain cognizant of your thoughts and emotions and to dissect where they stem from, and _why_ you are thinking them. By playing an active role in understanding your thoughts and feelings may dredge up uncomfortable emotions, and understanding why that is, is essential in your recovery.

To induce mindful meditation focus on your breathing and assume the meditative state, but instead of closing your eyes and quieting your mind, allow your eyes to remain open and to gaze at a fixed point in front of you. The object here is not to be drawn into whatever it is you are looking at, but to remain mindful and "awake" of your inner thoughts. After you feel as if you have absorbed the information you need, consider keeping a meditation journal to document any realizations and revelations that come to you.

## I Am Meditation

It is our birthright to be in the continual search to "know thyself," to embrace our essence, and to understand the forces behind our actions; to be married seamlessly to the choices we make; to be without a subconscious to secret away the inner truths we escape. We believe if we know who we are, our paths will become clear, and we will be able to ascend to our ultimate potentials. Although meditation may be able to serve as a stepping stone to this illumination, do not be fooled into thinking you may access the whole of yourself with a few meditation sessions. The pursuit of self is conducted over the span of a lifetime- and perhaps in the afterlife, too.

"I Am" meditation, or "Self-Enquiry" aims to reveal our essence. Our sense of self is continually bombarded by the expectations of society, and the roles we fill because they are expected of us, but not necessarily aligned with what we desire of ourselves. Meditative self-inquiry helps us discover who we are underneath all the masks of "daughter," "sister," "mother," "aunt," "friend," "writer." At the heart of this art is the crux of your essence, the distilled amalgamation of your philosophy and personal truth. It is existence!

###  Steps to Practice I Am Meditation

Place yourself in a meditative state by focusing on your breathing. Do not purge your thoughts of all movement, but embrace the feelings and thoughts washing over you. Address each thought as it comes, and ask yourself "Who does this (thought/fear/ambition) speak to? Your answer should be, "It is mine." If you feel as if this notion is wrong, state the label to which it belongs. For instance, if you think "I am a penner of greeting cards," but you are in fact an aspiring novelist, admit to yourself, along the lines of "This is not mine, but my occupation. My calling lies within the book unwritten." Always ask yourself after addressing the core nature of your thoughts who you are by simply asking, "Who am I?"

Allow the floods of impressions to wash over you, and _feel_ your personal power accrue, swelling into your own self truth. The purpose of this meditation is to define the essence of yourself by actively seeking to traipse your fingers along the reverberation of your spirit; purging harmful notions and thoughts deviating from your personal truths- and strengthening the benevolent.

##

Guided meditation for beginners is an excellent way to dip your feet the in waters of meditation. You should not entirely rely on guided meditation, for the practice takes you away from the indwelling nature of yourself. However, as a means of beginning meditation, listening to a CD, YouTube video, being guided by a friend or teacher is just fine. Practice guided meditation to feel more comfortable exploring the intimate surroundings of meditative introspection on your own. Learning to breathe correctly, and to experience the twinges of accessing higher vibrational planes in the presence of experienced company is useful for asking questions and clarifying variables of the art form.

Guided Meditation

_Journaling_

#  Keeping a Recovery Journal

If you have yet to begin tracking your recovery to sobriety, take immediate heed to begin documenting your experiences. If you are not one for keeping a daily journal or diary, try to commit to recording your healing experiences once every week- just to check in on yourself. As you process in this transformative time in your life it is absolutely critical to be able to work out your thoughts and emotions on paper (or electronically). When we write we are able to tap into our subconscious. Our thoughts and feelings evolve, providing introspection and illumination of the aspects dwelling within in need of address. Where there is insecurity, the truth of the blight comes out in our summation of words, and by later reflection we are able to take formative action to overcome the hurdles presented to us on the long road of recovery. And if we cannot, we are able to present our self-findings during therapy for further insight.

Even if you have no intent of recording your recovery for publication into a memoir, consider recording your experiences for generations after you in your own family. Addiction is genetic, and there may come a time where your acumen from times of substance use and addiction may help your own loved ones triumph over the disease.

In respect of immediacy, journaling gives you an avenue of expression, and allows you to work out your thoughts and emotions you do not understand in therapy- or in a sit-down with your loved ones. The mind is continually whirling from the full spectrum of human emotions all the time. In our effort to pin them down, we may lose sight of a critical thought or revelation _unless we record them to contemplate later._ In going over our own dialog, we may discover hardened feeling we never consciously realized or admitted.

#### Tracking Your Holistic Journey

Akin to keeping a recovery journal for means of documenting the recovery process, recording aspects of your holistic recovery is essential in tracking what works and what does not. If you want to get the most out of any type of healing, recording what you have tried for which affliction and the results yielded over a period of time will help map out the best course of personal action going forward.

Recording insights from meditation are particularly useful, as you bring forth energies from other planes and deep from within yourself. You may also wish to record your progression through chakra healing or make notes of the impressions you feel from varied crystals.

###  Creating Measurable Goals

If you are not quite fond of writing about your recovery experience, you may want to use your journal to record a bucket-list of sorts. Creating long-term and short term goals during recovery helps to keep us awakened to our path of healing, and does not allow us to become lazy for the want of an aspiration to strive for. When you construct goals, try to keep your ultimate goal in the forefront of your thoughts, and always shape your goals to be achievable through measurable means. Do not simply proclaim you wish to lose 50 pounds; that will not get you anywhere. Aim for lower, immediately achievable goals, like losing two pounds per week.

In terms of your recovery, you may pick up an additional hobby to prevent you from meandering down the brambles of relapse. Recording new adventures, heightened hopes, and aspirations for the future will help solidify your commitment to yourself and your recovery in the long run. Re-learn how to live without the anchor of addiction, you may make it a point to record things you are grateful for.

#  Scrapbooking for Addiction Recovery

Akin to journaling for recovery, scrapbooking is an enjoyable diversion from the troubles of the present. Scrapbooking allows us to transport ourselves out of our immediate concerns, whisking us to think nothing of the composition, color coordination, and construction of beautiful works of art. Engaging in scrapbooking allows people in recovery to immerse themselves in the things they love. Scrapbooking is not limited to simply documenting life's celebrations and transitional periods. You can construct an entire scrapbook around your favorite animal or hobby. You might consider creating an entire scrapbook with your favorite quotes, levels of achievement in rehabilitation, symbolic representations of aspirations for the future, and your family and loved ones who are guiding you through recovery. Scrapbooking heralds surprising psychological benefits, bolstering self-esteem, self-healing, and self-expression.lxxxiii

In combination of these elements, you may elect to construct a scrapbook with elements of your holistic healing path. You may have sections dedicated to the development and alignment of your chakras, entire pages of favorite crystals you have worked with, a visual reminder (and perhaps a map) of your personal bauga, and Feng Shui guide. The possibilities are endless. If you have tombs of personal journals, you may consider emblazoning them with your favorite knick-knacks, scrapbook paper, cut outs, pictures from the internet, or odds and ends you have laying around your house. One of my best friends, Irina, and I collect random baubles we think will be useful for scrapbooking, and then have manic, all-night scrapbooking fiestas.

Immersing yourself in scrapbooking allows you to focus on the construction of your personal fate. Scrapbooking may be used as a tool of manifestation, and to point your mind in the directions you wish to go. For instance, constructing a sort of "remembrance" scrapbook may be useful to help stave off cravings. Including all of the things you wish to accomplish after successful recovery; having visuals of your family, pets, and loved ones, can help you commit your mind to continue down the path of healing. In recovery, anytime you can entice and use all of your senses, do so! Utilizing the full spectrum of your innate awareness will impart a powerful imprint on your psyche, as opposed to a singular visual reference.

Enlivening the Scenes in Your Creations: Scent, Touch, Sound, Taste  
To entreat our most primeval sense of smell, dab scented oil, perfume, or encase smoke from your favorite candle or incense around your completed scrapbook page to encase the scent. The subtlety will remind you of when you constructed your book, and may help you feel more comfortable and whole.

Stimulate your sense of touch my gluing textured decorations into your scrapbook. My personal favorite is dried flowers (which also crinkle), but you can use fabric, felt, smooth buttons, shells, raised decorations (like 3D sticker) or anything else you can think of. (Irina is obsessed with different types of ribbed bottle caps).

If you want to entreat sound, you can purchase a push device which allows you to speak into it, and repeat one of your favorite daily affirmations to correspond to each theme in your scrapbook. You can chose to create a chakra book, or a collection of pages on the skills you wish to develop, the metaphysical properties of your favorite stones for crystal healing, or a collection for your bucket list. The possibilities are innumerable! For a less time consuming way to entreat sound, think again of textured elements like multicolored cellophane (commonly used in fairy wing costumes, you know the stuff).

I'll admit, I'm struggling to incorporate taste into scrapbooking, other than visual references to your favorite foods. And no, you should not lick your scrapbook. Redolent evocations may be induced by using food themed oils. (Think sugar cookie scented oil and pumpkin pie around the holidays.)

##  Psychological Benefits of Scrapbooking

K arns boasts scrapbooks "create purposeful action when everything else seems out of control," and promotes the "exploration of ideas and emotions, clarification of thoughts, and recognition of how experiences and environments impact the individual."lxxxiv Looking at scrapbooking as a cathartic exercise to help cope with emotional therapy sessions, or off-days is more than a mindless arts and crafts project; scrapbooking helps you rebuild connections with the things you love, and gives you a creative font of self-expression. It may even lend itself to helping you strengthen your relationships by hosting scrapbooking get-togethers. You might even venture to get out on the town and look for MeetUp scrapbooking groups.

Robert Reiner, PhD. illuminates, "The act of performing a craft is incompatible with worry, anger, obsession, and anxiety. Crafts make you concentrate on the here and now and distract you from everyday pressures and problems." Reiner goes on to say scrapbooking prompts similar effects to meditation and deep breathing. lxxxv

If you are not keen on constructing a traditional scrapbook, you might try your hand with smaller projects implementing the same methodology with an alternate medium.

###  Altered Journals & Smash Books

Altered journals are just as they sound; instead of emblazoning a scrapbook, you simply "scrapbook" in a journal. Completing journals takes less time, assuming the journal you use is smaller than a scrapbook, and allows you to carry it with you easier, for a motivational pick me up. Alike people who carry around knitting needles to fight off anxiety or depression, many carry their altered journals (sometimes called smash books, just take a look on Pinterest) with sets of markers, stickers, scrapbook paper, and other knick-knacks to scrap on the go. Creating an altered journal includes all of the benefits of a scrapbook, but simply allows you to create on a smaller scale.

_Practical Wisdom_

#  Practical Wisdom for Addiction Recovery

Although this text has been centered on the application of holistic healing and remedy for addiction recovery, I would be remiss to forgo practical recovery tools that will aid and sharpen your use of holistic treatment. Remember holistic treatment is not a replacement for professional care, but a supplement before, during, and after detox and rehabilitation care. Undergoing the traditional means of recovery treatment will enable you to begin your journey of holistic healing and recovery. Addictive substances block your subtle bodies from functioning correctly- similar to their effects on the body. Taking the time to restore balance to your physical health is absolutely essential to reap the full scale of the benefits espoused from holistic healing.

###  Coping with Withdrawal Anxiety, Do not Wait for "Rock Bottom"

Going to rehabilitation is not the problem, it is having to go through drug and alcohol withdrawal that scares everyone away from the prospect of getting better. Withdrawal is the root of most anxieties surrounding initial addiction recovery, because it is often described as a grueling process only medical treatment can safely guide one through.

While it is true withdrawal should always occur under the care of a certified medical professional (many times withdrawal aggravates underlying medical conditions left untreated, resulting in seizure, or damage to critical organs in some circumstances), surviving withdrawal is not as awful as you may think.

Withdrawal symptoms vary from substance to substance; cocaine, heroin, and Adderall all have different withdrawal symptoms, but the process of going through withdrawal is necessary regardless. Withdrawal is the body's way of shedding its physical addiction to addictive substances. Alcohol withdrawal is typically the most (potentially) deadly among all addictive substances, yet the severity of symptoms are dependent upon the length in which one has remained dependent on their substance of choice.

Or not.

Sometimes addiction is physically established early on, and hits harder in one individual as opposed to another. Addiction is different for everyone, and must be treated as such. The fact remains, everyone must go through withdrawal to eventually overcome crippling substance use disorders. Withdrawal is not the enormous impossibility you think it is! Letting go of your anxieties revolving withdrawal is critical to speed recovery and allay fears, which may not have solid ground to stand on.

#### Truth: You Need to Go Through Withdrawal

If you think you can escape withdrawal and recover, you are sadly mistaken. Withdrawal is the body's natural process to regain control of its biology. Addictive substances change our brain chemistry and malign many of our internal functions. As the body adjusts to no longer having the substance it has become dependent on to function, you will feel some changes that are unpleasant.

#### Myth: Withdrawal Is the Worst Experience You will Ever Have

Take it from our very own Clinical Director of Harbor Village, Dr. Holly Vasquez-Cortella,

#### "Think about your first breakup. You think you are never going to get over it. Did you get over it? Did you die? It is the same with withdrawal. You think you will never overcome it, but you will. You just have to think, 'I have been through so much more and have gotten through it, so what do I have to be scared of?'"

Girls, think of withdrawal as just another monthly gift from nature that happens to last a week- just like normal! And guys, withdrawal is like a severe cold, we have all had one of those- and look, you lived! All light hearted attempts to encourage you aside, the fears and anxieties swirling around withdrawal truly do make the experience more formidable. **If you can reasonably tell yourself withdrawal is near to a severe cold, you will be able to calm yourself into doing what needs to be done.** You do not want withdrawal stopping you from achieving your life's goals, do you? Withdrawal is simply one more stepping stone to getting back to: you.

#### Truth: The More You Know the Better

The more you actually speak to people who have gone through withdrawal, the better! It is true, some withdrawal symptoms can seem unbelievably daunting, like the potential of seizures or bodily convulsions, but the truth of the matter is, in a detox center you will be continually monitored by nurses and medical techs who care about your wellbeing. That is the entire reason to go through with it. In the event of a medical emergency, there are trained professionals who will ensure you recover without a hitch. You have nothing to be afraid of.

#####

##### If your only reference point of withdrawal stems from watching YouTube videos of people attempting to get clean on their own- that is not an accurate portrayal of withdrawal.

#####

Simply put: we do not have the resources, nor the know-how of how to safely withdrawal on our own- so those who do, will understandably have a difficult time getting through it. It is like attempting to treat strep throat at home without antibiotics.

#### Myth: All Withdrawal Symptoms Are Fatal

No! Not all withdrawal symptoms are fatal. In fact, most are not.

#### Truth: You CAN Overcome Withdrawal

Thousands of people go through withdrawal every day, and they do so to reclaim their lives from addiction. You can too. Withdrawal may not be a pleasant experience, but is sacrificing your life and continually living with the possibility of suffering a fatal overdose really worth it? Are you willing to let go of your family and loved ones forever? You can either think of withdrawal as a necessary evil, or accept withdrawal for the cleansing process it is. Going into treatment with your goals in mind will help you remain determined to complete recovery, and will help you brave anything withdrawal can throw your way. Maybe you want to:

  * Finally write that book

  * Reconnect with your family

  * Go back to school

  * Help other people overcome addiction

Whatever your intention, wielding them firmly against the anxiety of going through withdrawal is a powerful tool at your disposal: Your will is stronger than your fears.

#### Myth: I'm Never Going to Be Ready

You can prepare yourself right now by holding onto all of the goals and ambitions you want to achieve. If you want to change your life, you are ready. Right this very second. There is no magical time where withdrawal is somehow more attainable. You are always ready to change your stars, and commit yourself to live a life worthy of you.

#### It is not that you do not deserve to be happy, it is that you are afraid of your worth.

When we tell ourselves we are not ready, what we are really saying is that we do not deserve to be happy. We do not deserve to go to treatment, when so many will never have the opportunity, or the chance, or the desire to. You do not have to shoulder the unwarranted guilt that is preventing you from breaking free.

You are worth it, you are ready, and,

###  You DO NOT Have to Wait for "Rock Bottom"

The myth of waiting for rock bottom is a dangerous one. The longer substance use disorders remain untreated, the more likely ******permanent physical and lasting psychological damage** will be cemented, and difficult to remedy. If you so happen to be at the storied "rock bottom," please, go to treatment- you are worth it. And for those of you who may begin to believe you do not need treatment until your entire life is in shambles, please, reconsider. It is never too early for treatment.

##  Love Yourself by Letting Go of the Past

Why is it the hardest person to love is yourself? Why are we never good enough? Why is everyone else so much more important than the one person we have to spend _every waking moment with?_ It is easy to hate yourself. It may even feel natural. Normal. Expected.

##### I'm here to tell you you are wrong.

Learning to love yourself is one of the keys of recovering successfully from any substance use disorder, depression, anxiety- and other maddening mood disorders. When we do not love ourselves, or when we feel guilty about just existing, our feelings create a cesspool of self-odium- and we carry that around with us.

Self-hate leeches into everything you do, and colors your world black. It is almost "normal" for people who hate themselves to find release in addictive disorders. Our drugs of choice become self-medication against the poison we speak to ourselves.

You can hate yourself even if you come from a loving family. Do not let anyone tell you how you should, or should not feel. It is common for family and friends to say things like, "You have no reason to feel this way," or "Your life is charmed, you are doing this for attention."

##### You never need to justify the way you feel in order for your emotions to be validated.

Conversely, if you come from a background where your parents were not supportive, or who were physically or mentally abusive, self-hatred may seem more "suitable." If you were the victim of violence or moral degradation, you were robbed early on of the natural beauty innate to you. Your perception of self-worth is absolutely critical in helping you to stay sober, whether that is from drugs, alcohol, self-harm, or wanton sexual encounters. Only you can define your own worth.

When revulsion threatens to swallow you up into gnawing nothingness, please rest assured this too will pass. It is possible for us to re-train our brains (neuroplasticity) to rediscover our self-worth. If you are one of those people who analyzes absolutely everything you have ever done, whether it was ten minutes, two days, or eleven years ago- stop it!

Letting go of the past, and setting your sights on the future is critical to retraining yourself to accept your past mistakes while making decisions that will serve you well in the future. If your struggles with addiction, whether it is the constant reminder of ugly scars, or if your knee jerk reaction to references of drugs or alcohol have condemned your spirit to the perils of self-hate, stop.

##### Take this moment to accept your past for what it was,

##### and know your past does not define you.

What you choose to do with your life from this day forward is your decision alone. Wallowing in the past does not serve your future- it stymies it. If you want to progress forward you will need to muster up the strength to forge forward to the new things you want to pursue. You cannot change your past, but you can master your future.

##  Nutrition and Addiction Recovery

#### Adapted from Rai V. Hall

Research shows eating healthy helps boost recovery from addiction. Simply put, eating healthy equates to flowering physical and mental health. Drowning your sorrows in junk food during recovery is the exact opposite of what you should do. Junk food does not contain the nutrients responsible for helping to regulate your moods, or prompting increased energy. We often are tricked into believing this is the case- because of the initial rush, but there is no sustenance in junk food to keep you going.

Did you know eating certain foods can actually help repair a drug addicted brain? An essential component for successful recovery is a healthy and nutritious diet. Regular exercise and chewing on kale can help your body reestablish normalcy after incurring the detriments of addiction. Proper nutrition kick starts your brain chemistry and your self-esteem! Nutrient packed foods help restore hair and skin- two aspects of our physical appearance which deteriorate with the habits formed because of addiction.

###  Addiction and the Body

  * Addiction often leads to malnourishment

  * Addiction blocks neurotransmitters- the body's natural feel-good chemicals

  * Addiction prevents the body from absorbing essential nutrients

  * Addiction causes damage to the immune system; leading to increased risk for diseases such as cancer

  * Addiction damages the nervous system

  * Addiction damages the liver

  * Addiction destroys your self-esteem and overall well-being

####  Foods to Help You Get Back In the Groove

There are a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods you can implement into your diet during your recovery from addiction. Nutritional studies recommend that people in recovery eat at a "cruise control" pace- meaning eating small portioned meals, frequently. This style of eating helps to enhance and maintain energy levels and create balanced moods.

###  The Power of Antioxidants for Addiction

Antioxidant rich foods can help enhance the immune system. Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, making them a great food choice to help with rebuilding your immune system throughout your recovery. Foods packed with powerful antioxidants include:

Grapes: The darker, the better! Purple, red, and blue grapes are laden with phytochemicals- antioxidants that help protect against various cancers and heart disease. Grapes also contain the phytochemicals anthocynanin and proanthocynanidin, which are excellent immune system boosters.

Blueberries: Blueberries are packed with the vitamins and minerals essential for strengthening the immune system, as well as phytochemicals that help protect against various diseases.

Red Berries: Strawberries and raspberries are wonderful for your overall health. Red berries contain ellagic acid, a phytochemical which helps buffer against cancer-causing agents in both diet and environment.

Nuts: Nuts just so happen to be one of the most balanced foods, ever! These super rich foods will provide you with healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. All nuts offer a unique portion of minerals, phytochemicals, and fats. Many nuts are also packed with resveratrol and plant sterols essential for lowering cholesterol.

Green Vegetables: Again, the darker the better. Dark green vegetables, especially kale and collard greens, are high in nutrients which help fight against various diseases. Vitamins A, C, E, calcium, magnesium, and potassium are all packed into green vegetables. Leeks, lettuce, and kale provide lutein and quercetin, both powerful antioxidants.

Orange Vegetables: Sweet potatoes are especially essential for providing important nutrients including calcium, potassium, fiber, and vitamins A, C and B6. Other orange vegetables such as carrots are also rich in nutrients and phytochemicals.

Whole Grains: Switching to whole grain foods can make a huge difference in your diet. Substituting white bread, white rice, and flour tortillas with whole wheat bread, brown rice, and corn tortillas. Whole grains contain nutrients such as zinc, selenium and phytochemicals which protect against heart disease and cancers.

Beans: Beans may not be a fan favorite, but they are densely packed with antioxidants. Beans are packaged with powerful nutrients including various vitamins and minerals. Green soybeans, lentils, black eyed peas, black beans and kidney beans should be essential to your diet.

Fish: Fish are infused with powerful omega-3 fatty acids. These acids can assist in preventing inflammatory diseases such as coronary heart disease. All fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, but salmon, mackerel, albacore tuna, and wild rainbow trout are among the highest omega-3 packed fish. Fish also contains vitamin D, an essential nutrient not often found in other foods. Beware, fish sticks and fried fish should be left in the past, fresh fish is the way to go!

Including these foods in your everyday diet during recovery can provide you with the assurance that you are getting what you need from your diet.

###  Restoring Neurotransmitters with Amino Acids

Because addiction use disorders negatively impact the brain, restoring amino acids is essential to your nutritional regimen during recovery. Amino acids are potent chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, GABA, and serotonin, are all neurotransmitters which are all closely associated with addiction and compulsive behaviors. Implementing an amino acid-rich diet, can help normalize and revitalize deficiencies in neurotransmitters associated with cravings leading to relapse.

Amino acids are powerful in promoting the following behavior changes:

  * Anti-craving properties

  * Improved energy

  * Improved mental focus

  * Reward stimulation

  * Anti-depression properties

  * Overall mood improvement

  * Anti-insomnia inducing properties

  * Improved appetite control

  * Promotes calmness and relaxation

  * Mild enhancement of GABA

  * Promotes pain relief

Amino acids are a fuel source for the entire brain. Recovery from addiction is a lifelong process, therefore you will need to maintain an amino rich diet for a lifetime.

###  The Importance of Nutrition in Recovery in A Nutshell

A true and complete recovery from addiction is dedicated to restoring your mind and body. A healthy and nutritious diet is the absolute best way to replenish the body from the detriments of addiction. Keeping an ongoing diet rich with antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals is essential for a long term recovery from addiction. Your diet plays an essential role in your overall well-being and how you feel.

Do not give up on your nutritious diet once you begin to feel better, recovery requires maintenance so work towards maintaining your recovery for a lifetime. Remember to take into account other healthy lifestyle choices are essential in recovery. Join a support group, exercise regularly, rest, relax and have some healthy fun.

##  Reconnect with Friends & Family after Addiction

If you are a recovering addict, or if you are a loved one of someone who is, it is not uncommon to feel resentment or discord on either side. In fact, chronic drug use and alcoholism causes strain on all relationships, and is not explicitly unique to those struggling through recovery. Reconnecting with your loved ones after instances of substance abuse is a process often fraught with peril. The loss of trust, goodwill, and pleasantries make reconciliation difficult to say the least. Recovery foments the revitalization of relationships and mends bridges which were once set asunder with the right purpose and continued effort on both parts of those involved. Recovery is a process stemming inward, but manifests throughout our entire environment, thus helping those around us share in the experience of healing.

If you are having trouble reconnecting with your family and loved ones after recovery, try these five techniques to help mend your personal relationships:

#### Therapy, Do not Knock it 'Till You Try It

If you are one of the people who hate the thought of therapy, maybe you should reconsider! Family therapy is intended to bridge the gap addiction use disorders have created between family, friends, and loved ones. If you have never been able to explain exactly how unbearable the disease of addiction is, a guided therapy session with a licensed therapist does wonders. Do not think of therapy as only for deeply disturbed persons. Even healthy people benefit from going to therapy to learn more about themselves. But more importantly, _those who go to therapy learn how to implement new ways of doing the same things._

If you have continually tried to open up with your family members and get caught up on the same issues without making any headway, therapy would be ideal to work out the kinks which seem impassible. Therapy does not have to be unending drudgery if you go into it with clear intents of the issues you want to resolve among your loved ones. If you are not quite sure what it is you need to tackle, ask your therapist to help you figure out the underlying causes of your discord, and form goals around those areas of concern.

_If therapy still is not your fancy, you may want to try meditation between your loved one and someone that you trust. You will not get the same industry insight as to what the underlying roots of your addictive disorder is, but having a neutral third party to help discover the holdups in your relationship can be helpful._

#### Write Thoughtfully

Sometimes it is easier to write than it is to divulge your whole heart verbally. We are easily affected by what we believe our loved ones will perceive of the things we say, which can make the imminent fear of judgement stifling, and ultimately silence us, despite our desperation to be heard. One way to counteract this is by writing your heart out. In a letter, a Facebook message, or even through texts. As long as you can get everything out on paper, you have a written document which you can go back on to address each point of interest.

Let's be honest. When you get a series of messages that are more reminiscent of a novel than a simple text message, it can be difficult to address everything all in one go. Having a written reference to go back to can help you organize your thoughts which may have otherwise been jumbled.

_But does not writing take away from one's efforts to communicate more effectively?  
_

Not at all. Your ultimate goal may be to open up directly to your family and loved ones, but starting small and building up to solidifying your connection, while developing the confidence you need to express yourself openly is key to ultimately reaching your goal. Like anything, having a measurable set of objectives to reach your ultimate end of reconnecting with your loved ones should guide your purpose.

If you do not want to share your letters with the people they are "intended" for, you can always use a journal as a springboard to speak with them about. We learn so much about ourselves through writing; journaling is common throughout recovery to help organize your thoughts and uproot things you may not have acknowledged consciously.

#  Oppressor of Addiction: The Perceived Morality Crisis

If you have ever heard the trite phrase, "Addiction is a problem of morality," or something similar, and you believed it, have been haunted by it, and breathed it in as your sole truth, you have been done a great injustice. If you have doomed yourself into thinking there is something wrong with you because you cannot stop using drugs and alcohol on a whim, because of your "lack of morality" you have been branded by those who do not understand the first thing of addiction: **Addiction is a disease with roots in both the mental and physical planes of our existence.** Suffering from drug and alcohol addiction has absolutely nothing to do with one's lack of morals, but everything to do with the environment you were raised in, your genetic predisposition for abuse, and your ability to cope with stress and overcome life's many traumas.

But why is morality even in the conversation of addiction at all? It is not quite simple, but as I understand it, those struggling with understanding the nature of addiction, perhaps those who were unsuccessful in rehabilitating a loved one, have resorted to branding the medical condition as a means of escaping their inability to help. So in essence, the experiences of addiction have also marred those who were voracious in helping at one time, yet achieving the exact opposite.

#### Eliminating Morality from the Equation

But what can we do for those struggling with the morality conflict? It is simple really, we have to change the perception of yourself. Morality has no basis in addiction, but one can wield what has long oppressed those from getting the help they need to triumph over addiction as the basis of remembering to love yourself. If you are justifying morality being the cause of your substance use disorder, because you have done things you have always said you'd never do, that is the direct result of the physical _need_ for your drug of choice, and the psychological aspects of the disease. Those experiences do not make you a bad person. You do not ever have to do those things again. _You are beautiful, and worthy of love and celebration._ Many who are blighted by addiction suffer from massive inferiority complexes. Overcoming the morality complex can be done by remembering to:

#### Love Yourself

Drug and alcohol addiction does not make you an awful person, someone unworthy of love, or deserving of misery. Addiction is simply a medical condition, and when left untreated can be fatal and detrimental to all facets of life- akin to other medical conditions, like cancer. The two are one in the same. So please, remember to give yourself a break.

Addiction is not your fault, and it is a treatable condition. One of the best things you can do is surround yourself in environments far away from the stimuli forcing you to escape in substance abuse- and if those causes are encased in your own mind, you owe it to yourself to let people in.

#### Let love in

It is the only way to recover from the disease which turns so many ignorant people against you. Let love in that rejuvenates. Love is not judgmental; love is not prejudiced; love is not conditional; love is everywhere if you know where to look. Surrender yourself to the ones around you who are trying to help- and if you think no one is there, look again. Speak up, and be heard.

#### Discover Your Passion

The gnawing, empty expanse addiction foments is one of the perilous dredges forcing us to forget we are worthy of love. You have something beautiful to give the world, and it is often in the hobbies and passions that once inspired you to dream beyond your current limitations. Get back to yourself and rediscover how to unlock the potentials swelling inside of you. Returning to the things you once loved before the disease of addiction took over your life will immerse you in the environments that will help you break away from the disease.

If forgotten hobbies and stirrings of the past no longer you offer the solace or fulfillment today, turn to new ventures you have always wanted to learn. Addiction produces haunting, impactful works of art, touching the hearts of thousands. Whether you pick up a pen, paintbrush, or a microphone, make your story heard.

In a nation where millions suffer from addiction every day, we as a society, do not understand the silent epidemic plaguing innumerable communities around the U.S.; your voice will help humanize the condition, and shed light where needed to combat the stigmas we have foolishly accepted as a populace. Help to change the perspectives surrounding addiction by letting the world hear your story. There are so many of us who have struggled with addiction going against the grain of what one typically presumes as a "drug addict." Addiction happens to everyone- and you can help elucidate this. Your personal plight has the power to inspire others to open up about their own experiences and get help.

#### Get Treatment & Go to Support Groups

Seeking professional treatment for addiction does not make you weak. Getting help is one of the most terrifying things many substance abusers have to face every day, with minds full of doubt and obscurity. Because addiction is a disease, the only way to truly triumph over the disorder is to get the help of a professional. Addiction treatment will help you understand the underlying causes of addiction with cognitive behavioral therapy, allowing you to harness the coping strategies and tactics learned in treatment. Altering your responses to stress and overwhelming emotions is the key to freeing yourself from a substance use disorder. Sometimes the only way we can truly transform this aspect of our behaviors is with expert guidance- and that is okay. Leaving the inner demons of addiction left unchecked will only result in the heartbreak of relapse.

#### "Parents often think addiction is their fault, so they don't want to see it. The fact is it is no one's fault. There's a genetic component of addiction; it is understanding how can I help my child face this, while living my life at the same time?"

Choose you. Choose life. Always.

##  A Note to Parents about Addiction & Self Harm

Jessica Dahan, one of the instrumental clinical therapists at Harbor Village, offers her words of wisdom to help allay our anxieties revolving the harsher reality of addiction:

"As parents, we assume every blemish in our children's lives are somehow our fault. This type of self-talk can often make us overbearingly protective, sensitive, defensive, and ultimately harm our relationship with our children. Sometimes holding on too tightly forces our little ones to rebel, and indulge in the very things we want to shield them from."

The most important thing to remember is we render ourselves useless to respond to addiction when we incapacitate ourselves with culpability. If you are like many other parents struggling with a child suffering from drug or alcohol addiction, you are shouldering most of the blame, because maybe you struggled with addiction at one time in your life- or maybe your parents did- or maybe your great, great grandmother did, and somehow it is still your fault.

###  Self-Esteem's Role in Addiction

**The** _last_ **thing your child wants on their conscious is the weight of guilt resulting from your own sense of burden.** Many struggling with substance use disorders suffer from inferiority complexes, or self-esteem issues. There are instances where your own love and adoration for your child, regardless of their development, are not enough to break through their own self-perception. Speaking from experience, as someone whose parents always encouraged and celebrated successes I considered inconsequential, substance use disorders and instances of self-harm typically stem from inward demons.

Of course, there are environmental factors undeniably contributing to addiction and an unhealthy self-image. (Are you one of those parents who poke at belly rolls?) Seemingly trivial observations and remarks may play a significant role in your child's self-esteem and ultimate perception of themselves. Especially for those sensitive souls latching onto the negative, and easily brush off the positive. What may appear as an impossibility in temperament and behavior- as it relates to environment factors- (an overly self-critical teen raised in an environment of continual encouragement) may be an indication of a mental health disorder. Common occurrences of bipolar disorder, border line personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and several other conditions may contribute to substance use disorders and self-harm. Tragically, many of these behavioral health disorders are either undiagnosed, or misdiagnosed. Refusal to see a psychiatrist will result in a delayed diagnosis.

Monitoring mental health conditions is imperative to discern the true causes of substance use disorders- and may offer a biological response for harmful behaviors. Denying yourself the assuredness of a proper medical diagnosis works against your ability to make a full recovery. Because many of these conditions escape diagnosis for many years, making an appointment hastily is recommended. A positive diagnosis for a personality or mood disorder should not be viewed as an utter catastrophe. Mental health is just as "typical" as physical health. If you were diagnosed with hypertension, you probably would not feel embarrassed or ashamed- this transition of thought is necessary to properly address any mental health disorders which may arise.

Alike anything arising from the unknown, mental health diagnoses breed fear and trepidation. Researching common mental health conditions can help you prepare for what may- or may not be- inevitable. The more knowledge we arm ourselves with, the better equipped we are to respond to co-occurring disorders.

#### The Truth of Addiction

Addiction is _no one's_ fault. It is similar to inheriting high cholesterol or thyroid conditions. Although addiction has many psychological components, there are genetic aspects of the disease which are passed on from one generation to the next. We cannot shield our rambunctious teens (or adults for that matter) from everything, but there are courses of action we can take to empower ourselves to help.

Addiction stems from unresolved traumas, or the inability to deal with stress. Teenagers who turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, one of the main factors of this behavior lie in their development, or lack thereof, of coping techniques to diminish high-stress emotions. (Also keep in mind the teenage brain is still developing and is devoid of many self-inhibiting characteristics.) Teens are especially susceptible to spiraling into the dredges of addiction if the friends they keep are experimenting with addictive substances. The same may be said of cutters, or those who are predisposed to self-harm. Acting quickly may seem overwhelming, but haste is the single most critical factor in ensuring your child recovers from addiction.

#### Foster Open Communication

Talking about the details of addiction: methods of use, scores made within what you may have believed to be "safe havens," or listening to near-death experiences may be difficult for you to stomach- but everything out in the open is one of the best things that can happen for those struggling with addiction.

**Closure is an important part of overcoming addiction, as is self-evaluation.** Sometimes this is best achieved through talking it out. Even if you are not a therapist, having the opportunity to confide in you may mean the difference between your loved one not using again- even for a fleeting moment- or spiraling further down the rabbit hole.

For people battling chronic addictions turned physical, this method may not be able to circumvent instances of getting high- but knowing they can come to you, and you will listen with open ears and arms, can be the simple gesture inspiring your loved one to get help.

I remember struggling acutely with suicidal ideation, and the simple presence of my mother allowed me to relieve myself of the overwhelming feelings fomenting my behavior- albeit slowly. It was difficult for me to express my feelings to her, mostly because I did not want her to worry. I did not know revealing myself to her would lift the weight from my shoulders, almost effortlessly- but it did. And she didn't collapse from hearing it.

Hearing the details of abuse may be too much for you to handle on your own. Enlisting the help from addiction specialists is essential. It may prove difficult for your loved ones to open up in the beginning, and you may be there for an hour before you can get anything out of them- but it will eventually come. Think of coaxing a frightened animal from under a car into unfamiliar territory. The experience is equally as jarring.

The key is not to be pushy. Remain soft and reassuring. If you find yourself getting frustrated, try to remember addiction is sometimes espoused with fundamental trust issues- many erect psychological barriers, preventing self-expression. This defense mechanism undoubtedly stagnates the healing process profoundly, but it is an adaptation gained from keeping the disorder secret. Unfortunately these barriers apply to parents too.

It may be hard to understand why your loved one simply _cannot_ open up. To many who have never purposefully preventing themselves from expressing inner feelings, as to avoid detection of discord from family and loved ones, it is a difficult thing to accept. Dr. Vasquez-Cortella, illuminates why substance users struggle with articulating thoughts vocally,

#####

##### "[Users] take care of everybody, and they have no one to take care of them. That is why they use. Using cognitive behavioral therapy allows them to realize what it is they are afraid of, what they are avoiding, and allows us, on a therapeutic level, to change it and develop strategies to confront it."

You may not know it, but hiding instances of drug addiction and self-harm is a full time job. **The secrets kept by your children and teens are not out of malicious intent, but protection of your sensitivities, and a measure of self-preservation.** Broaching the subject of therapy typically results in an emotional outburst, or flat-out refusal- but therapy gives users (who may or may not struggle with self-harm) the ability to confront the underlying belly of addiction and potentially undiagnosed mood or personality disorders, necessitating treatment.

#### Love Them, Despite It All

Because it is common for users to struggle with acute inferiority complexes, it is important to always convey your undying love substance abusers despite their actions. **Addiction leads many to behaviors they would have never exhibited before losing their lives to addiction.** Theft, aggravated assault, among other criminal offences, may be common.

Tell them you love them. Again and again and again, if you have to. Countless people fighting addiction _do not love themselves._ They do not like who they are, what they've accomplished- or focused on what they have not. Self-abuse and addiction may result from feelings of unworthiness or self-degeneration. Your teen may not believe your praise- because they do not love themselves. It is a difficult barrier to break through, but with persistence, _you will reach them._

But will you do so in time?

Overdose rates are increasing across the nation, almost every day. Do not wait to get your loved one the help they need. Despite your best efforts to help them feel whole, there are no real replacements for cognitive behavioral therapy, where addiction specialists are trained to help evaluate "self-talk," and ultimately promote healthy feelings of self-worth. Take it from Dr.Dahan,

##### "Our self-talk has a lot to do with our actions. Is your self-talk positive, negative? Are you down on yourself, do you think the whole world is over?

##### Or do you try again?

##### A lot of people give up because they make one mistake, but two steps forward and one step back is still one step forward."

#### Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Heals

Up until this point we have focused on the things _you_ can do yourself, but sometimes our own resources are not enough to directly confront the perils of addiction and self-harm. Do not misunderstand me _:_ _You are absolutely critical to your loved one's recovery_ **.** But let's face it, not many of us have degrees, Master's, or PhDs in psychology. We are not equipped to implement the _how_. We know there are underlying facets of addiction, begging to be addressed, but can we ultimately rectify them at home?

The simple truth is that sometimes we just cannot. That is an honest evaluation of the situation should speed profession help in therapy- and more specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The point of CBT is to help drug and alcohol users, (and cutters), figure out what the underbelly of addiction stems from, and then ultimately redress ill feelings.

**We can reinforce the techniques learned in therapy, but we are no replacement for a specialist.** Think back to college algebra. Maybe you passed, but do you think you could teach your child the ins and outs of the science behind it? (And for you math geniuses, think back to your Shakespeare course!) Therapists are simply the teachers and guides we send our loved ones to, much like school. Take it straight Dr. Vasquez-Cortella,

##### "How can you be cured? If you deal with the depression and anxiety issues, then poof! You are not going to want to self-medicate anymore, because we have solved the problem.

##### CBT is about 6-18 sessions, or up to 1-2 years, depending on the outside. We are here 30-90 days. The research shows the longer you are in treatment, the better the outcome."

If convincing your loved one to go to treatment has been an uphill battle try Dr. Vasquez-Cortella's method: uses their own logic to spur action:

#####

##### "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. I never say anything like, 'How does that make you feel?' It is always, 'I do not need to go to treatment,' but then ask them, 'Well, how long have you been dealing with this, and how is it working out?'

##### "Even if it is just once, they do not want to be a statistic, usually when they are coming [to treatment] they are thinking 'Oh my God, I'm not a junkie, I do not shoot up. That is not me.' At the end of the day, an opiate is an opiate.

#####

##### What I tell people, even if you are not going to learn anything, it gives you time. Go, check in. Even if you do not want to be here, just give it a few days. Time does heal all. Your brain and your mind need this clarity to get off it permanently."

#### Teach Them How to Cope with High Stress Emotions

As we mentioned earlier, self-medication and addiction typically stems from an inability to cope with high stress emotions- that is a critical facet in cognitive behavioral therapy. We can help at home by teaching our loved ones cope with their depressions, anxieties, and feelings of inadequacy. Dr. Dahan helps recovering users learn how to better address the feelings precipitating addiction and self-harm, "Some coping skills for some people can be the gym, whereas some others can be as simple as listening to music, or going for a walk."

Teaching your teen how to effectively do something else, _anything else_ , can be as simple as delving into whatever it is they love. My generation seems to have a propensity for video games. I'll be the first to say, immersing myself in virtual reality helped me _avoid_ what I really needed to address. The lesson to take-away here is that **diversion without healthy outlets of expression to address depression** **, or other factors (such as self-harm), creates other instances of addiction- or negation.**

What do you do when you are stressed? Sometimes deep breathing can make the world of difference. And there is science behind it. According to Health Land from _Time,_ deep breathing calms "the nervous system, [increases] focuses and [reduces] stress." Coping does not have to be one set thing; try painting, writing, bike riding, take a pottery class- anything that gets them active and moving. Which brings me to my next point:

####  Explore New Activities

The world is your classroom! Which is a poor analogy if you hated school. Think of the world as doors to immeasurable possibilities you can step through at any time, with the right direction.

Want to be a master writer?

Enroll into a writing course, or workshop at a university. (And yes, you can enroll as non-matriculating, or non-degree seeking if you so please.) Want to be the next greatest makeup artist? Go to a makeup artist convention.

Want to get into acting? YouTube and the Vine has helped connect agents with undiscovered talents from all over. It does not matter what your child does, as long as they are doing it. Your job is to help them find the things that sing to them.

As parents we are able to see into the heart of things, and although sometimes we miss the mark- because little ones with disorders they would rather us not know about, are good at hiding it- we strike somewhere along the right lines. Discovering new horizons can be as easy as finally going to those national parks you have never visited, even though you live 20 minutes away from them. Museums inspire interest in history, and even provoke creation of historical literature or period pieces in way of art.

If you are rolling your eyes right now, because you are thinking, "Who the heck wants to go to a museum or take a class while struggling with depression? Who the hell cares?"

I have got some surprising news for you: improving one's working memory and strengthening cognition ability is essential in overcoming addiction and can ultimately prevent relapse. So yes, _do_ go for stimulating new adventures. _Do_ challenge your young adults to reach their full potential. And if they fall, that is what you are here for.

##  Improve Working Memory & Begin Cognition Therapy

The University of Oregon's researchers have found weakened working memory equates to diminished resistance to drug and alcohol use. lxxxvi Ultimately this translates into users of drugs and alcohol being more impulsive, and engaging in dangerous behavior- like escaping in drugs and cutting. **As parents, how can we improve our teens' working memories?** What about our own working memories? (Addiction is genetic after all!)

The answer is not as clear cut as we would like it to be. The keys to improving working memory lie within

  * Brain Training (Yes!)

  * Medication (Let's not do that one. . .)

  * Brain Stimulation (Yes!)lxxxvii

Now trips to national parks and museums do not seem as farfetched, right? The key of improving working memory and cognition is beyond the scope of this book. Essentially, what you need to know is that _stimulating your loved one's cognition is key to helping them overcome addiction._ In fact, reading literary fiction has proven to help people overcome addiction. I am one of those people who will happily spend their entire paycheck at the bookstore with no regrets. And guess what? It helps. Reading helps improve empathy- thereby translating into social skills and increased cognition, under the right circumstances.

But what can _you_ do for them? Try starting a series together- perhaps one that addresses addiction or self-harm. **PLEASE BE WARNED:** Stimuli revolving addiction and self-harm may result in relapse. Always follow the advice of your addiction specialist- if you are not sure if exposure to suggestive behaviors will be harmful or not, consult your therapist- or pick a book that does not mention addiction at all.

I know from personal experience, allusion to, imagery, or written memoirs of cutters were enough to dredge up old memories and increase my inclination to cut- so while I want to continue learning from my past mistakes, and examining those wounds, it is not a good idea for me to binge read ten personal stories from cutters, unless I am in an environment where it is safe for me to do so- and _learn_ from what I am exposing myself to. The decisive aim of improving cognition is to _learn_. The goals of therapy is to _abstain_ from detrimental impulses.

#### Sometimes You Do not Have to Say Anything, Just be There

In our fumbling efforts to help our loved ones through the perils of addiction and self-harm- especially when we have no idea where to turn- sometimes delay is necessary.

Stop.

Breathe.

Be there.

That is it.

Our own anxieties rub off on the ones we want to safeguard from them. Sometimes you do not have to say anything. Just be there. In earnest, compilations of the most balming spells I have spent with my parents after an emotional breakdown, or relapse- were merely sitting in their presence. I didn't have to think, I didn't have to justify my actions, I didn't have to explain. They were just there with me.

Sometimes silence is the best comfort. **It is hard to cry, or confess indwelling emotions when you are being questioned- because your immediate response is to shut down.** Stillness allows genuine feeling without filter. _Your presence is more powerful than you think._ And yes, even if your mini-me is always telling you to go away, it helps. They may convince themselves your presence is unnecessary or unwanted, but more often this sentiment stems from an involuntary look at the truth of situations too ensnaring to bear.

####  Understand the Anxiety of Withdrawal, Be Encouraging

You may or may not be surprised to learn the fear of going through withdrawal is what keeps many away from getting professional help. During withdrawal the body rebels against the absence of its substance of choice. Withdrawal symptoms and their severity is dependent upon the substance abused, and profundity of addiction. Withdrawal is absolutely necessary to recover from addiction- yet many refuse treatment because of the agony often attributed to the process.

If the obstacle is trying to help your loved one overcome the anxiety of going through withdrawal, the best thing you can do is to remedy their anxieties beforehand, and _make the process of getting treatment attainable, now_.

The longer addiction festers, the more arduous the gauntlet of recovery becomes, especially for teens and young adults. There are many books available on overcoming withdrawal, and exploring the recovery process altogether. Begin allaying anxieties by going to group sessions with your loved one. Meetings like AA and NA can be empowering, and instill a sense of community. Hearing from active recoverees will give your loved one a perspective you may be unable to share with them.

##### Remember: it only takes one time to overdose.

##  Aromatherapy for Depression

Essential Oils are concentrated extracts of herbs and spices. Aromatherapy interacts directly with our most primal instinct: scent. You may want to couple other means of holistic healing with the following essential oils and incense. Please note you should never consume essential oils under any condition, nor should you apply them directly to the skin- as they may cause irritation. The best way to utilize the power of aromatherapy is by investing in an oil burner or diffuser. You can pick one up from the dollar store to try out first. Diffuses warm oil either by means of candle or heat generated from electricity.

##  Essential Oils for Depression

**Celadine:** Helpful in aiding the escape from both physical and psychological entrapment, promotes benevolent energies, brings happiness, and helps alleviate depression when worn close to the skin. (Beware of allergies or adverse reactions!)  
**Hawthorn:** Brings happiness

**High John the Conqueror:** Facilitates success, pleasant feelings, and helps to destroy ill omens

**Hyacinth:** Promotes feelings of love and happiness, lifting the veil of depression

**Lavender:** Aids in relaxation, promotes peace and calm a state of being

_Meet the Therapists of Harbor Village_

##

#  The Therapists of Harbor Village

##

##  Antoinette Hernani: Clinical Therapist

Antoinette Hernani's love for addiction studies stems in her specialization in developmental psychology with children, which soon blossomed into a love for helping ease the pangs of addiction among recovering drug and alcohol users. Committed to her calling, and enlivened by her continual state of nurturing affection, Hernani's role as a clinical therapist allows her to work directly with clients to formulate individualized treatment plans for recovering patients, highlighting areas in need of improvement, and honing in on the many triggers of relapse.

After graduating from Nova Southeastern University's Master's program in mental health, Hernani's passions whisked her to work helping patients recover and find hope in the walls of a psychiatric hospital. Her transition from treating mental disorders, autism, Asperger's syndrome, and behavioral conditions endears her to working with those recovering from substance use disorders, as Hernani gives fresh insight and mastery of mending co-occurring disorders.

_"_ _This is a very rewarding job, even though this population can be very resistant," she says._

Because of addiction's multifaceted spectrums among both the physical and psychological planes, Hernani helps recovering users understand the magnitude of their conditions, and arms clients with actionable solutions to prevent relapse, and achieving goals to measure success of recovery.

_"_ _Many are unaware of the intensity of the disease. And that is why in our treatment plan we try to find what one's individual triggers are and identify the consequences of drug use."_ Focusing on bolstering one's support system, Hernani orchestrates individualized treatment plans to emphasize restraining impulsive behaviors, rejuvenate physical and mental health, tapering medication compliance, and how to effectively manage frustrations, without relying on destructive behaviors and mind altering substances.

_"_ _We have different goals that we work with clients in every session._ _Each individual is unique and has their own issues."_

_"_ _We help recovering users create goals. We establish personal goals, like developing self-esteem, many have self-esteem issues and history of abuse, or trauma. Every time I see them we work on those goals to establish a better understanding of how we can transcend addiction together."_

Hernani's pointed efforts to help clients achieve their goals and triumph over addiction is the highlight of her career, and inspires her to continue working with clients who have yet to manifest their goals.

##### "When I see someone who has graduated from detox move onto our rehab program, you can see the tangible weight lifted off of them; they look better, they think more clearly, they understand this is a disease not impossible to overcome. It is not an easy path, but they know they can overcome it.

#####

##### "Many of our clients are very intelligent, and if they put in all their effort they can be cured from the disease."

Addiction treatment wholly concentrated on the individual's personal growth and absolution from addiction sorely lacks the necessary touch of the familial spectrum; Hernani helps clients both achieve personal and recovery goals while mediating family therapy. Recovering users are encouraged to invite their families and loved ones to mediated family therapy sessions to mend the bridges decimated as a result of trauma long unaddressed, or fresh wounds afflicted from the throes of addiction.

_"_ _When I get together with both client and loved ones we discuss how we got here, what we can do to prevent it, and the things we'll change going forward to never be in this position again. The focal point of family therapy is how we can work as a team for recovery._

_"_ _When I see people in recovery doing well, it brings a big smile in my heart. Everyone has their own journey. Sometimes it takes 5, 10, 20 relapses or treatment centers. When they are here, they are alive and safe. We would rather have them here than on the street, where we can help them try again and find their footing."_

When asked, "If you could say one thing to the entire universe, what would it be?" Hernani responds,

##### _"_ _We need more tolerance. Love each other. We need not to forget to teach values and morals that we have lost in society, to prevent them from becoming [forgotten]. We do not want to create intolerance for others._

#####

##### We can make a difference, even if it is one person at a time.

##### A revolution of love.

##### That is what we need, and with love comes tolerance. We lack that."

##  Vito Pelikan: Life Coach

As written by Alexandrea Holder

Vito Pelikan joins his fellow therapists Elizabeth Kittay, Jessica Dahan, and Antoinette Hernani to form the team of well-trained and enthusiastic therapists under Dr. Holly Vasquez-Cortella. Earning his Master's in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University, Pelikan's choice to become a practicing life coach for Harbor Village stems from a family history of substance abuse and the desire to help people in need. Before Harbor Village, Pelikan lived and taught English in South Korea for three years. He attributes his time teaching overseas as a learning experience which he uses now to aid him in conducting group therapy and personal sessions.

As a life coach, Pelikan facilitates the male gender group therapy sessions which focus on experiences and struggles unique to males in recovery. Pelikan also leads life coaching sessions which are available to all and offer a variety of information useful in reestablishing one's self in the vocational sphere. His classes include basic resume building and job training, healthy eating, the importance of proper rest, and lessons on conduct when dealing with authorities. He also teaches budgeting, saving, and investing to help clients establish independence once they have completed rehabilitation.

Beyond skills for employment, Pelikan teaches the importance of community and social interaction for those in recovery:

_"_ _I teach clients about community and the importance of meeting new people and getting involved with new things. I teach them about using the internet as a tool to meet people. I think it is been really helpful to people because every once in a while I'll get an email asking 'Hey, what was that website again?' So it is nice to know they do remember what I have taught them."_

Though he is involved in multiple group therapy programs, Pelikan admits his preference is individual therapy sessions. He says it is a chance to connect with clients on a level group therapy does not sanction:

_"_ _I really try to get people to open up during group sessions. I want to get them to share their views and opinions because usually that triggers other people to do the same. I enjoy class time and group time, but one on one time is great because that is when a person is actually actively asking for help. They are ready to absorb and retain everything that I have to offer. You know the time is being spent in a good way. I really enjoy my one on one time with the clients."_

During one on one meetings, Pelikan encourages self-reflection and exploration of the underlying triggers and roots of addiction.

##### _"_ _I always encourage people to focus on themselves. Sometimes people look to external or extrinsic means to solve their problems or distract themselves. Recovery from addiction is about focusing on yourself and healing.  
_

##### _"_ _Be humble to your addiction. Take recovery slowly; if you try to understand everything too fast you are not getting the most out of it. Resist being in a hurry to just get out; it is not a race, it is about getting the help you need.  
_

##### _"_ _Some people relapse because they are trying to test their boundaries. They do not know what they can and cannot do. We teach our clients to stick to the foundations of relapse prevention to avoid that."_

##  Elizabeth Kittay: Clinical Therapist

As written by Alexandrea Holder

Elizabeth Kittay is a therapist of Harbor Village, with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Barry University, Elizabeth is dedicated to serving those in need. After years serving victims of domestic violence, she decided to direct her efforts toward another traumatized population: those suffering the effects of drug and alcohol addiction. Elizabeth embodies the sincere desire to improve the lives of people in need in any way she can.

_"_ _I really am here to make that eeny, weeny bit of difference. That truly is a gratifying experience and I think that is why we are all here: we want to make a difference. My goal is to inspire people therapeutically so they continue treatment beyond Harbor Village- [whether] that is through support groups and therapy or an Intensive Outpatient Treatment program."  
_

Harbor Village provides two group dynamic therapy sessions daily, during which the focus is initiating conversation. During these sessions clients are encouraged to speak about their struggles and experiences among peers that often have similar stories. Creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and non-judgement, clients reluctant in sharing begin to bloom, gaining perspective and understanding through others.

Harbor Village offers gender based therapy sessions held in the afternoons. Elizabeth Kittay moderates the women's session where she focuses on past experiences and possible childhood traumas. Kittay explains women suffering from drug dependency have experienced traumas in the past contributing to their drug use. Her female patients are often victims of domestic violence, domestic abuse, child abuse, or sexual assault. Through her past experience as a counselor for survivors of domestic violence, Elizabeth gained experience she applies to her clients at Harbor Village.

Between group therapy sessions, Elizabeth sees clients on an individual basis, which is her preferred method of work. "I love doing individual therapy sessions. Everyone has a story. I'm very client-centered and I can connect to just about anybody. My maternal instinct helps me to do my work."

Kittay supplies a journal which she asks clients to fill with five positive self-traits to reaffirm self-worth and strengthen often wounded self-esteems. Journals may also be used to record a trauma narrative- the written composition of traumatic events and negative thoughts. She explains that this is an effective cathartic treatment; by "getting it out of your head and onto the page" one can focus on the effects of these events rather than the anxiety and negative emotions these memories inspire.

##### _"_ _There is one young man who has severe PTSD. He has it from being deployed twice to Afghanistan. He was [not medicated] and suffering by himself with flashbacks and night terrors. During his time here we got him on the right medication and through working with me he is in much better shape._

##### _He has fewer night terrors and flashbacks. He's happier and hopeful; feels more in control. He told me that once he leaves here and goes back home he's running to the VA to get himself a therapist, which I'm going to help him set up while he's here to make sure he's in the right hands._

##### _With my clients I want to make sure they are inspired enough therapeutically that they keep going with treatment after they leave."  
_ _  
_

Kittay advises positivity, humor, and humility after discharge from rehab. She says a well-developed sense of humor serves as a great coping mechanism for those experiencing a low point in recovery. Ensuring the people within one's immediate circle are supportive and positive influences is also key to staying on track. Above all, Kittay says to never hesitate to contact a sponsor or hotline as soon as cravings or urges begin; shame and pride too often lead to relapse.

Kittay goes on to say that one of her favorite aspects of working for Harbor Village is the team she works with- primarily Dr. Holly Vasquez-Cortella:

#####    
_"I came here and met Dr. Holly and I thought she was amazing. You know, half the job is who you work for and when she interviewed me I thought 'that is who I'd like to work for.' I think the entire team is fantastic.  
_  
_We are all genuinely here to help. If we can inspire someone to change their lives, maybe they can help someone else.  
_

##### _That is why some of our staff started in this business to begin with: they had positive experiences of their own that stuck with them. Your biggest hope is to have people leave here and inspire others to seek help. A lot of these people know each other either from halfway houses or around on the streets. If we get enough positive stories coming from treatment centers, more people will take the chance and try to get help."  
_

_"_ _My favorite thing to hear people say is 'I'm feeling much happier today than I did yesterday.'"_

 _  
__Meet the Charge Nurses of Harbor Village_

#  The Charge Nurses of Harbor Village

## Edda Riveros

Meet our lovely Edda Riveros, one of the Charge Nurses who runs and manages the detox and rehabilitation sides of treatment here at Harbor Village. Edda, along with Liset Cruz and Eny Torres work under the direction of Yanio Brunely to seamlessly orchestrate the entire department.

Edda actively interviews prospective nurses, and helps process doctor orders for patients quickly. Enjoying the fast paced environment of nursing life, Riveros comments,

"Nursing is never the same- it is never the same. You go in there think you are going to get everything done, but you get none of it done. The client is your priority- if the client needs attention, the paperwork is pushed aside- and done eventually."

"I love it."

Earning her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Florida International University, Riveros' first love was in the delivery room, but she has quickly become endeared to addiction medicine, and helping people recover from substance use disorders:

"I got asked on the [rehabilitation] side by a client 'Why do you want to work with a bunch of junkies?'

And I'm like, **'I love you guys. I enjoy it.' It is amazing to see how clients progress during treatment and their sobriety- their behavior, physical changes, their entire demeanor changes.** They gain weight, they look healthy."

During the course of both the detoxification and rehabilitation process, Edda lovingly affirms she becomes emotionally invested in the wellbeing of her patients' emotional and physical wellbeing. "You get attached in detox. . .the change from the day they come in to the next day, day five, day seven- the changes in character are incredible."

Harbor Village's commitment to long term sobriety is solidified with the medical therapy offered for rehabilitation patients, who are not prescribed maintenance therapy, and never come into contact with narcotic based medications.

"[Patients] may have a little bit of withdrawal, but it is manageable. On the treatment side we focus on **anxiety** , **depression** , the **PTSD**. Our doctors meet with them during rehabilitation to tweak the dosage of any medications necessary."

Every week Riveros helps set up appointments for clients to see local healthcare providers, like dentists and specialists, because oftentimes those in the middle of chronic substance use disorders, forget to maintain their current medical conditions or develop new ones.

" _We help our patients follow up, so they are not only being treated for their mental health, but also for their physical wellbeing. We take clients to appointments. That does not happen in detox, but in rehabilitation."_

"I think a lot of them missed out a lot on their childhood, love, affection, something that has been robbed from their youth- so they need someone who is caring. Our nurses are good, but we bring a lot of that as charge nurses- we are very involved."

Riveros assures those hesitant about getting treatment for addiction the disease can strike anyone, despite a lack of physical disposition to the disease. "No one fits the mold of addiction . . . hereditary factors are not always the end."

"It is progressive. 'I like to have a glass of wine with dinner,' and all of a sudden you are having two, you are having three- so there is not a mold, there is not a specific reason why anyone becomes an addict."

" **[Your] comfort level is being intoxicated, unfortunately, so anything where [you] are not intoxicated is going to be scary and difficult. But if not, recovery will never happen. You have to step out of your comfort zone to get clean- to feel some of the withdrawals. Otherwise- you may think 'Why not use again?'"**

On Harbor Village's Community Support:

"Whether it is a case manager or a nurse, a therapist, there is always someone there to talk you through it. Even the clients who are feeling better help the ones not feeling well. **A lot of them just go up and introduce themselves to each other and bring them into their social circles.** "

Preventing addiction starts from home, Riveros encourages parents to keep the healthy flow of communication open between parents and their children, and stresses current users to open up and allow recovery to take place:

" **If you cannot believe in yourself, talk to someone. You have to tell someone, because eventually, you will never know. Some people feel like no one cares, or they are too embarrassed. There are a million reasons why things progress the way they do, but if you catch it early you have so much of a better chance to get better.  
**

It is for young and old alike. Younger kids and older kids do not say anything because they are ashamed."

#### On Parenting & Addiction:

"We are raising that type of society and it is dangerous. Your emotions lead you to do a lot of things- and every much so in addiction. I had a patient one time, and he was so young, and I told him, you do not know what you are doing to your mom. I have a three year old, and I do not know what I would do if it happened. And he told me, you have to watch him, you have to talk to him, and you have to make sure he can talk to you.

It raises such awareness. I have to take advantage of this time now, you realize these kids still want you to be there- even when they are teenagers. Even if you are super annoying- and you are the biggest pest- they still want to know that you are there and you care."

"We are raising a generation that are not allowed to speak, or express their emotions- and they are just muffled by taking pills, teachers, parents, administrators. . ."

Treatment encompasses family therapy, if sanctified by patients. Edda chimes, rehabilitation is made better by involvement from helpful family members,

" **In this field it should not only be about the client. It should also be about the parents. They should be involved."**

##  Meet Liset Cruz: Charge Nurse

Liset Cruz is one of the instrumental Charge Nurses of Harbor Village, who helps to situate clients on both the detoxification and rehabilitation facilities. Cruz earned her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at Florida International University, and is now pursuing her Master's as a nurse practitioner.

In addition to personally treating patients, and tending to their medical needs, Cruz helps speed the entire nursing staff, desk and medical nurses to purpose. Working closely with Edda Riveros, Eny Torres, and Yanio Brunely, Cruz is at the center of ensuring all clients' medical needs are tended to. But that does not stop her from becoming personally invested in each client. Cruz spends most of her time with patients, forming close relationships with them, and is gifted with taking an intimate look into the circumstances of their lives leading to addiction and rehabilitation.

"[My patients] feel like family. They tell me everything that is going on at their life, and when they are discharged- I cannot believe they are gone!

I'm with them more than I'm with my family. I absolutely become emotionally attached."

When asked how to best allay fears of going through the withdrawal process, Cruz assuages perspective clients to take the good with the bad, and asserts withdrawal is a necessary part of rehabilitation- and is more curative than anything:

"Patients are here because they want to be, and they want to get help, they are there voluntarily- they do not want to go through the withdrawal symptoms but they have to, it is the only way they are going to progress to the next stage.

"At the beginning they are going to feel horrible, they are going to have chills, shaky, cold chills- anxiety- _but then after every day passes they start refusing their medication because they feel great. It is a good thing._

"They always think the worst of withdrawal-they think they are in a bed, they are going to be dying- it is not like that for everyone. We make them as comfortable as possible without giving them narcotics, without giving them what they want- but we are here to help them, but they can do it. Anybody can do it. If Michael Boland has been sober for 15 years, anyone can do it."

Cruz goes on to say the medications prescribed after detoxification are mild and have no chance of fomenting subsequent addictions, or catalyze new ones. In addition to getting 24 hour recovery treatment, patients are encouraged to keep up with their physical health, and are taken to specialists by staff during their stay in rehabilitation.

When faced with patients who relapse, Cruz welcomes her old friends with welcome arms, and a plan for the future, as to prevent further relapse:

"I know their stories. We talk to them. We know what happened in their lives- a lot of the times we know why they start using, because they feel comfortable enough to tell us. **If we see a patient a year from now, we are heartbroken, and we ask 'What happened?' But we say it is okay, we know it is for the last time.** They laugh at me all the time for saying that.

#### I respect every life.

I love helping everyone as much as I can. I never thought I would get into addiction, but I applied and I liked it- and I do not want to leave. I'll stay here as long as I can.

I love knowing their story, and knowing why. Some of their stories are so sad, and now I understand why they are addicts. I understand why they are here. Once you see them in a month, and you see how they change, and they say they are never going to use again, they are so much happier now- they do not _need_ drugs. It is great."

When asked about addiction's personal role in her life:

"My mom's brother was an alcoholic. He passed away- he committed suicide, because of that- years ago. I was 16. He hung himself. He couldn't take it anymore. Nobody in my family drinks- unless it is social. He was the first one, we do not have anyone else in our family that is an addict, or that went through that.

"Just seeing him, I thought he was normal, but he just started drinking and drinking and drinking. At the end he said 'I just cannot take it anymore, I'm not myself, and I'm not doing anything to help my kids. . .' and he just committed suicide. **If that happened to him, and he had a normal life- I know it can happen to anybody.**

"Just because of that I have never used drugs, and I am not a heavy drinker. I have always been kind of scared of it.

" **Our patients are just normal to me. People call them 'addicts,' but they have a story- they are here for a reason, it just didn't happen. Something triggered them to be that way."**

One thing Cruz what is everyone to know is to continually strive to

"Believe in yourself. Anything is possible."

"I got pregnant when I was 18 years old, and I thought I was not going to be able to do anything with my life. But then I became a nurse, and now I'm expecting another one- and I did it. Anyone can do it. You just have to want it.

"My mom would tell me, 'It does not matter, you are going to get through this, and you are going to do what you want to do in life, you can do it.' The same is true for people in recovery.

"We do try to get the family involved with treatment, as long as we have our client's consent."

#### "If it was not for my mom telling me you can do it,

#### I do not know where I would be today."

Get acquainted with the entire Harbor Village staff on our Meet the Team webpage.

#  Services of Harbor Village

#  Table of Illustrations

Finger Dowsing by Alexandrea Holder & JessiRae 19

1 51

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes 51

FreeImages / Leonardo Novaes 51

Root Chakra licensed CC by 3.0 71

Sacral Chakra licensed CC by 3.0 73

Courtesy of Atarax 76

Heart Chakra by Mirzolot Licensed CC by 3.0 78

Throat Chakra by Mirzolot licensed CC by 3.0 80

Courtesy of Lene Sevcikova 82

Courtesy of Nricsi 83

# Endnotes

# Bibliography

Adawiah Dzulkifli, Marlam, and Muhammad Faiz Mustafar. "The Influence of Colour on memory Performance: A  
Review." _Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences_ , 20 no.2. (2013)  
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3743993/.

American Hospital Association. "Latest Survey Shows More Hospitals Offering Complementary and

Alternative Medicine Services." AHA. November 2007.  http://www.aha.org/presscenter/pressrel/2008/080915-pr-cam.shtml.

American Hospital Association: Sita Ananth.

Arias, Albert J. M.D., and Karen Stienberg, Ph.D., Alok Banga, M.D., Robert L. Trestman, M.D., Ph.D.."Systematic Review of the

Efficacy of Meditation Techniques as Treatments for Medical Illness." _Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine._ October 11, 2006.  http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2006.12.817.

Bergland, Christopher. "Eight Habits that Improve Cognitive Function." Psychology Today. March 12,  
2014. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201403/eight-habits-improve-  
cognitive-function.

Brown, Sunni. "Doodlers, Unite!" Ted Talk, 5:50. March 2011, http://www.ted.com/talks/sunni_brown#t-187799.

Chakra Anatomy. "Crown Chakra – Sahasrara 7th Chakra," Chakra Anatomy," N.d., http://www.chakra-  
anatomy.com/crown-chakra.html.

CS, Nautival, and Chauhan PS, Nene YL, "Medicinal Smoke Reduces Airborne Bacteria,"

Ethnopharmacology 114, no. 3 (2007), quoted in Luke Sumpter, "Smudging: Burning Herbs to Purify Air of Harmful Bacteria and Energies," Reset.Me, June 12, 2015,  http://reset.me/story/smudging-burning-herbs-to-purify-air-of-harmful-bacteria-and-energies/.

Crossway Bibles. The Holy Bible, ESV. Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Bibles: 2001.

Crystal Vaults. "Rose Quartz Meanings and Uses." Crystal Vaults. N.d..  
 http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/rose-quartz.

\--- "Azurite Meanings and Uses." Crystal Vaults. N.d.. http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-  
encyclopedia/azurite.

\--- "Malachite Meanings and Uses." Crystal Vaults. N.d..

http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystalencyclopedia/malachite.

Cunningham MSW, Donna, and Andrew Ramer. Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions. San Rafael,  
CA: Cassandra Press, 1988.

Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. St. Paul, MN: Llewellyn Publishings,

1985.

DiSalvo, David. "New Study Shows that Green Tea Boosts Working Memory." Forbes. April 14,  
2014.http://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2014/04/14/study-green-tea-boosts-working-  
memory/.

Einother, Suzanne J., and Vanessa E. Martens. "Acute Effects of Tea Consumption on Attention and  
Mood." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 98 no.6: (2013): 3. Accessed November 19, 2015,  
http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/98/6/1700S.full.

Emoto, Masaru. The Hidden Messages in Water. New York: Atria Books, 2001.

Farouk Radwan, Msc, M.. "Doodles Interpretation and Psychological Analysis." _2KnowMyself_ , N.d..  
 http://www.2knowmyself.com/Doodles_analysis_psychology/doodles_interpretation_personality

Fondin, Michelle. "What is a Chakra?" Chopra Centered Lifestyle. N.d..  
http://www.chopra.com/ccl/what-is-a-chakra.

Gienger, Michael and Joachim Goebel. Gem Water: How to prepare and use more than 130 crystal waters  
for therapeutic treatments. 2nd Ed.. Saarbruecken, Germany: Earthdancer, 2009.

Gienger, Michael. The Healing Crystal First Aid Manual. 2nd Ed. Saarbrurcken, Germany: Earthdancer,  
2008.

Govinda, Kalashatra. A Handbook of Chakra Healing: Spiritual Practice for Health, Harmony, and Inner  
Peace. Old Saybrook, CT: Konecky & Konecky, 2002.

Green Lotus. "Reiki Really Works: A Groundbreaking Scientific Study." UCLA. N.d.  
http://rehab.ucla.edu/workfiles/Urban%20Zen/Research%20Articles/Reiki_Really_Works-  
A_Groundbreaking_Scientific_Study.pdf.

Hall, Judy. The Crystal Bible. Cincinnati, Ohio: Walking Stick Press, 2003.

Hall, Judy. 101 Power Crystals. Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press, 2011.

Hall, Judy. _The Encyclopedia of Crystals._ Gloucester, Massachusetts: Fair Winds, 2006.

Hari, Johann. "Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong." Ted video, 14:42. June 2015,  
https://www.ted.com/talks/johann_hari_everything_you_think_you_know_about_addiction_is_wrong?language=en

Headspace _._ "The Science Behind Meditation and Headspace." _Headspace_. N.d.. https://www.headspace.com/science.

Jabr, Ferris. "Why Your Brain Needs More Downtime." _Scientific_ American. October 15, 2013.

 http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mental-downtime.

Kreider Tim. "The 'Busy' Trap." _Opinionator,_ June 30, 2012. http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-  
busy-trap/?_r=0.

Malchiodi PhD, Cathy. "Doodling Your Way to a More Mindful Life." _Psychology Today. Janueary 13, 2014,_

 https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/arts-and-health/201401/doodling-your-way-more-mindful-life.

Meanings. "Selenite." _Meanings._ N.d.. http://meanings.crystalsandjewelry.com/selenite/.

Mohagheghzadeh, A. and Faridi P., Shams-Ardakani M., Ghasemi Y.. "Medicinal

Smokes."Ethnopharmacology 108, no. 2 (2006). Quoted in Sumpter, Luke. "Smudging: Burning Herbs to Purify Air of Harmful Bacteria and Energies." Reset.Me. June 12, 2015.  http://reset.me/story/smudging-burning-herbs-to-purify-air-of-harmful-bacteria-and-energies/.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. "Overdose Death Rates." NIH. February 2015.  
 https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates.

Oh Sheree. "How to: Turn a Crystal into a Pendant." YouTube Video, 2:58. February 6, 2013.  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYsDJg5N7Og.

Pelikan, Vito. Interviewed by JessicaRae Pulver-Adell. Digital recording. Florida. November 17, 2015.

Peschek-Bohmer, Dr. Florda, and Gisela Schreiber. _Healing Crystals and Gemstones: From Amethyst to Zircon._ Old Saybrook,  
CT: Konecky&Konecky, 2002.

Reiki for Holistic Health. "Chakra Diagram." Reiki for Holistic Health. N.d.. http://www.reiki-for-holistic-  
health.com/chakra-diagram.html.

Reiner, PhD., Robert. "The Soothing Benefits of Scrapbooking." _HealthyWomen._ March 7, 2011. Qtd. By Monson,

Nancy. "The Soothing Benefits of Scrapbooking." March 7, 2011.  
 http://www.healthywomen.org/content/blog-entry/soothing-benefits-scrapbooking.

Schwedel, Heather. "Coloring Books for Adults: We Asked Therapists for Their Opinions." _The Guardian_. August 17,  
2015. [ http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2015/aug/17/coloring-books-adults-therapists-  
opinions](http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2015/aug/17/coloring-books-adults-therapists-%09opinions).

Struthers, Jane. The Psychic Bible. New York, NY: Sterling, 2007.

Thibo Karns, Jeanne. _The Therapist's Notebook for Children and Adolescents_. London & New York: Routledge, 2003.

University of Oregon. "String Working Memory Puts Breaks on Problematic Drug Use." _ScienceDaily._ October 2,

2014.  http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141002131111.htm.

Voytek, Bradley. "How Can We Enhance Working Memory?" _BrainFacts._ May 20, 2013.

 http://blog.brainfacts.org/2013/05/how-can-we-enhance-working-memory/#.Vk9b-vmrSUl/.

Walton, Alice G., "7 Ways Meditation Can Actually Change the Brain." _Forbes_. February 9, 2015.  
 http://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/02/09/7-ways-meditation-can-actually-change-the-brain/.

# List of Contributors

  * **Alexandrea Holder** is a Copywriter for Harbor Village in Miami, Florida.

  * **Rai V. Hall** is a student of The Kings College pursuing her Master's in Addiction Studies in Miami, Florida.

## Index

#  Contact the Author:

Write to Jessica Rae Pulver Adell: JPulverAdell@HarborVillageFlorida.com .

i Johann Hari. "Everything you think you know about addiction is wrong." Ted video, 14:42. June 2015,  https://www.ted.com/talks/johann_hari_everything_you_think_you_know_about_addiction_is_wrong?language=en.

ii National Institute on Drug Abuse, "Overdose Death Rates," NIH, February 2015, https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

iii Green Lotus, "Reiki Really Works: A Groundbreaking Scientific Study," _UCLA_ , n.d.,  http://rehab.ucla.edu/workfiles/Urban%20Zen/Research%20Articles/Reiki_Really_Works-A_Groundbreaking_Scientific_Study.pdf.

iv American Hospital Association, "Latest Survey Shows More Hospitals Offering Complementary and Alternative Medicine Services," _AHA_ , November 2007, <http://www.aha.org/presscenter/pressrel/2008/080915-pr-cam.shtml>.

v American Hospital Association: Sita Ananth.

vi Judy Hall, _The Crystal Bible_ (Cincinnati, Ohio: Walking Stick Press, 2003), 24.

vii Judy Hall, _The Encyclopedia of Crystals_ (Gloucester, Massachusetts: Fair Winds, 2006), 18.

viii Masaru Emoto, _The Hidden Messages in Water_ (New York: Atria Books, 2001), xix.

ix Mohagheghzadeh A., Faridi P., Shams-Ardakani M., Ghasemi Y., "Medicinal Smokes," _Ethnopharmacology_ 108, no. 2 (2006), quoted in Luke Sumpter, "Smudging: Burning Herbs to Purify Air of Harmful Bacteria and Energies," _Reset.Me_ , June 12, 2015, http://reset.me/story/smudging-burning-herbs-to-purify-air-of-harmful-bacteria-and-energies/.

x Nautival CS, Chauhan PS, Nene YL, "Medicinal Smoke Reduces Airborne Bacteria," _Ethnopharmacology_ 114, no. 3 (2007), quoted in Luke Sumpter, "Smudging: Burning Herbs to Purify Air of Harmful Bacteria and Energies," _Reset.Me_ , June 12, 2015, http://reset.me/story/smudging-burning-herbs-to-purify-air-of-harmful-bacteria-and-energies/.

xi Donna Cunningham, MSW and Andrew Ramer, _Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions_ (San Rafael, CA: Cassandra Press, 1988), 25-26.

xii Michael Gienger, _The Healing Crystal First Aid Manual_ , 2nd Ed, (Saarbrurcken, Germany: Earthdancer, 2008), 87, 104, 170, 204, 218.

xiii Hall, _The Encyclopedia of Crystals,_ 181.

xiv Crystal Vaults, "Rose Quartz Meanings and Uses," _Crystal Vaults_ , N.d., http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/rose-quartz.

xv Ibid., 44.

xvi Crystal Vaults, "Azurite Meanings and Uses," _Crystal Vaults, N.d., http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/azurite._

xvii Hall, _The Crystal Bible,_ 250.

xviii Dr. Florda Peschek-Bohmer and Gisela Schreiber, _Healing Crystals and Gemstones: From Amethyst to Zircon_ (Old Saybrook, CT:Konecky&Konecky, 2002, 64.

xix Hall, _The Encyclopedia of Crystals,_ 79.

xx Meanings, "Selenite," _Meanings,_ N.d., http://meanings.crystalsandjewelry.com/selenite/.

xxi Hall, _The Encyclopedia of Crystals,_ 257.

xxii Ibid., 97.

xxiii Dr. Florda Peschek-Bohmer and Gisela Schreiber, _Healing Crystals and Gemstones: From Amethyst to Zircon:_ 184.

xxiv Crystal Vaults, "Malachite Meanings and Uses," _Crystal Vaults,_ N.d., http://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/malachite.

xxv Judy Hall, _101 Power Crystals_ (Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press, 2011), 122.

xxvi Hall, _The Encyclopedia of Crystals,_ 32.

xxvii Michael Gienger, _The Healing Crystal First Aid Manual_ , 2nd Ed, (Saarbrurcken, Germany: Earthdancer, 2008) 149.

xxviii Oh Sheree, "How to: Turn a Crystal into a Pendant," YouTube Video, 2:58. February 6, 2013. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYsDJg5N7Og.

xxix Michael Ginger and Joachim Goebel, _Gem Water: How to prepare and use more than 130 crystal waters for therapeutic treatments, 2_ nd _Ed._ (Saarbruecken, Germany: Earthdancer, 2009), 31.

xxx Michelle Fondin, "What is a Chakra?" _Chopra Centered Lifestyle, N.d., http://www.chopra.com/ccl/what-is-a-chakra._

xxxi Ibid.

xxxii Donna Cunningham, MSW and Andrew Ramer, _Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions_ 25.

xxxiii Reiki for Holistic Health, "Chakra Diagram," _Reiki for Holistic Health_ , N.d., http://www.reiki-for-holistic-health.com/chakra-diagram.html.

xxxiv Kalashatra Govinda, _A Handbook of Chakra Healing: Spiritual Practice for Health, Harmony, and Inner Peace_ , (Old Saybrook, CT: Konecky & Konecky, 2002, 108.

xxxv Donna Cunningham, MSW and Andrew Ramer, _Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions_ 25.

xxxvi Reiki for Holistic Health, "Chakra Diagram."

xxxvii Donna Cunningham, MSW and Andrew Ramer, _Further Dimensions of Healing Addictions_ 25.

xxxviii _Chakra Anatomy._ "Crown Chakra – Sahasrara 7th Chakra," _Chakra Anatomy."_ N.d.. http://www.chakra-anatomy.com/crown-chakra.html.

xxxix Crossway Bibles, _The Holy Bible, ESV,_ (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Bibles: 2001), Deuteronomy.

xl Ibid.

xli Christopher Bergland, "Eight Habits that Improve Cognitive Function," Psychology Today, March 12, 2014, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201403/eight-habits-improve-cognitive-function.

xlii David DiSalvo, "New Study Shows that Green Tea Boosts Working Memory," _Forbes_ , April 14, 2014, http://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2014/04/14/study-green-tea-boosts-working-memory/.

xliii Suzanne J. Einother and Vanessa E. Martens. "Acute Effects of Tea Consumption on Attention and Mood," _American Journal of Clinical Nutrition_ 98 no.6: (2013): 3, accessed November 19, 2015, http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/98/6/1700S.full.

xliv Ibid.

xlv Jane Struthers, _The Psychic Bible_ (New York, NY: Sterling, 2007), 218-219.

xlvi Scott Cunningham, _Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs_ (St. Paul, MN: Llewellyn Publishings, 1985), 53.

xlvii Ibid., 34

xlviii Ibid., 35

xlix Ibid., 43

l Ibid., 60

li Ibid., 75

lii Ibid., 96

liii Ibid., 100

liv Ibid.,112

lv Ibid.,134

lvi Ibid., 136

lvii Ibid.,152

lviii Ibid.,172

lix Ibid., 175

lx Ibid., 182

lxi Ibid., 188

lxii Ibid., 189

lxiii Ibid., 194

lxiv Ibid., 195

lxv Ibid., 209

lxvi Ibid., 215

lxvii Ibid., 216

lxviii Heather Schwedel, "Coloring Books for Adults: We Asked Therapists for Their Opinions," _The Guardian_ , August 17, 2015, http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2015/aug/17/coloring-books-adults-therapists-opinions.

lxix Marlam Adawiah Dzulkifli and Muhammad Faiz Mustafar, "The Influence of Colour on memory Performance: A Review," _Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences_ , 20 no.2 (2013), http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3743993/.

lxx Cathy Malchiodi PhD, "Doodling Your Way to a More Mindful Life," _Psychology Today, Janueary 13, 2014,_  https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/arts-and-health/201401/doodling-your-way-more-mindful-life.

lxxi Sunni Brown, "Doodlers, Unite!" Ted Talk, 5:50, March 2011, http://www.ted.com/talks/sunni_brown#t-187799.

lxxii M. Farouk Radwan, Msc, "Doodles Interpretation and Psychological Analysis," _2KnowMyself_ , N.d., http://www.2knowmyself.com/Doodles_analysis_psychology/doodles_interpretation_personality

lxxiii Tim Kreider, "The 'Busy' Trap," _Opinionator,_ June 30, 2012, http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/the-busy-trap/?_r=0.

lxxiv Ferris Jabr, "Why Your Brain Needs More Downtime," _Scientific_ American, October 15, 2013, http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mental-downtime.

lxxv Ibid.

lxxvi Albert J. Arias, M.D., Karen Stienberg, Ph.D., Alok Banga, M.D., Robert L. Trestman, M.D., Ph.D., "Systematic Review of the Efficacy of Meditation Techniques as Treatments for Medical Illness," Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, October 11, 2006, http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/acm.2006.12.817.

lxxvii Headspace _,_ "The Science Behind Meditation and _Headspace_ ," Headspace, N.d., https://www.headspace.com/science.

lxxviii Alice G. Walton, "7 Ways Meditation Can Actually Change the Brain," _Forbes_ , February 9, 2015, http://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/02/09/7-ways-meditation-can-actually-change-the-brain/.

lxxix Vito Pelikan, Interviewed by JessicaRae Pulver-Adell, digital recording, Florida, November 17, 2015.

lxxx Ibid.

lxxxi Ibid.

lxxxii Ibid.

lxxxiii Jeanne Thibo Karns, _The Therapist's Notebook for Children and Adolescents_ , (London & New York: Routledge, 2003), 157.

lxxxiv Ibid., 158.

lxxxv Robert Reiner, PhD., "The Soothing Benefits of Scrapbooking," _HealthyWomen,_ March 7, 2011, qtd. By Nancy Monson, "The Soothing Benefits of Scrapbooking," March 7, 2011,  http://www.healthywomen.org/content/blog-entry/soothing-benefits-scrapbooking.

lxxxvi University of Oregon, "String Working Memory Puts Breaks on Problematic Drug Use," _ScienceDaily,_ October 2, 2014, http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141002131111.htm.

lxxxvii Bradley Voytek, "How Can We Enhance Working Memory?" _BrainFacts,_ May 20, 2013,  http://blog.brainfacts.org/2013/05/how-can-we-enhance-working-memory/#.Vk9b-vmrSUl/.

