HOLY YOGA THERAPY FOR AT-RISK POPULATIONS ADDICTION AS A HOLISTIC DISEASE By Gina Tricamo, R.Y.T., M-H.Y.T.

Lay Aside Prayer Dear God, please lay aside everything I think I know about this dis-ease, this program, these Step, myself and especially you, God, so I may be open minded to a new experience about this dis-ease, this program, these steps, myself and you, dear God. Please show me the truth about the physical allergy, obsession of the mind and spiritual malady. Prayer from the 4th Dimension NA Group in L.A., CA God, give us grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed, courage to change the things that should be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other. By Christian theologian Reinhold Niebuhr in 1943 (Bartlett's Familiar Quotations 17th ed.) Websters Definitions for: Accept to receive willingly, to give admittance, to endure without profit or reaction, to recognize as true, to receive Serenity clear or free of storms or unpleasant change, shining bright and steady Courage mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger; fear or difficulty Wisdom quality or state of being wise, knowledge of what is true or right coupled with just judgment as to action, discernment, or insight As we begin this journey of seeking God in our focus to bring holy yoga therapy for at-risk populations, we are reassured of the Divines sacred place of safety: Psalm 27: 4-6 One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling, he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy, I will sing and make music to the Lord. As we are called forth as Holy Yoga Therapist in ministry we are assured: Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor (the Hebrew word translated is Septuagint; meaning the

blind). He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. ADDICTION STATISTICS IN AT-RISK POPULATIONS * One of every eight Americans has a significant problem with alcohol or drugs, with 40 percent of the group having a "dual diagnosis," or concurrent mental/nervous disorder; * Approximately 27 million Americans either use illicit drugs regularly or are "heavy drinkers." Of these almost 16 million are estimated to need immediate treatment; * By age eighteen, almost 12 percent of all young people are illicit drug users; * An untreated alcoholic's medical costs are approximately 300 percent higher than non-alcoholic's medical costs; * Approximately 70 percent of illegal drug users are employed and contribute significantly to workplace absenteeism, accidents and injuries, decreased productivity, increased insurance expenses, employee turnover costs and on-the-job violence; * The estimated annual direct cost to our society resulting from substance abuse is more than 250 billion dollars; * It is generally accepted that chemical dependency, along with associated mental health disorders, has become one of the most severe health and social problems facing the United States.*
* Source: SAMHSA (U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

What is Addiction? Websters Definitions of Addiction:

being abnormally tolerant to and dependent on something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming (especially alcohol or narcotic drugs) an abnormally strong craving

Yogi Times, pg. 33; article written by Robert Bimberg, defines Addiction from a Yoga Perspective: a plague; a modern scourge, the dis-ease of our era continued use of a substance or behavior, despite increasingly negative consequences wanting the wrong thing very badly

the 12 step program defines alcoholism/drugs as a physical allergy coupled with a mental obsession linked to a spiritual malady, thus qualifying alcoholismaddiction as the first truly holistic disease A yogi explains addiction as the minds innate tendency to mechanically and habitually respond to present-time challenges with behaviors that worked in the past (samskaras). In other words, todays problems were once yesterdays solutions

A FEARLESS INVENTORY: I John 4:18 Perfect Love. (please read) All of us know someone who has been afflicted in one way or another by the pain and destruction of addiction. It takes courage to confront the issues, make a fearless inventory and explore adjunct holistic methods to heal and live fully present lives without succumbing any further to the wreckage of alcohol and/or drugs. As believers, we know if the Son of God has set us free, we are free indeed (John 8:36). As holy yogis we also know that if we micro-move towards the completion of Gods great work in us, we are to approach the work of recovery in the same Light and trust in the healing of wholeness in the physical, mental and spiritual body THE THREE CHARACTERISTICS OF ADDICTION: Physical allergy For addicts/alcoholics the physical dimension is described as: An allergy-like bodily reaction resulting in the compulsion to continue using substances after the initial use; once the drink or drug is ingested and craving begins 20% of the worlds population carries the erratic gene Over a period of time the gene is subjected to a redesign and a genetic disposition is inherent of family history (please review attached family tree diagram and prepare for discussion) In psychological terms the genetic disposition is described as an Intergenerational Transmission. This dynamic is a spiraling down affect with a greater magnitude of addiction manifesting more intensely and profoundly each generation It does not happen over night, it is slow and progressive, but definite. Studies have indicated the liver, after continuous subjection to fight off the foreign chemicals digested, produces redesigned chemistry. This toxic chemical is transported by the neurotransmitters, which feed the neurons in the brain. The brain chemistry becomes polluted and impacts the normal homeostasis. What then is created is an altered physical state of being, and eventually a chemical imbalance in the brain (discuss the Reward Deficiency Syndrome/amino acid therapy

Obsession of the mind - The mental obsession is described as cognitive processes that cause the individual to repeat the compulsive behavior after some period of abstinence (known as relapse), either knowing that the result will be an inability to stop using or operating under the delusion that the result will be different (i.e. I can stop after one drink or I have done so good not using, I deserve to relax just this once and have a good time like everyone else.) The mind becomes like a gerbil entrapped in a plastic ball, spinning and spinning without relief or peace. Compounded with this dimension are a dual diagnosis disorder; mental illness and obsession of the mind. A person may be diagnosed bi-polar, schizophrenic, personality disorders or suffers other dementias, along with the disease of addiction. Spiritual malady The dis-ease of the 4th dimension, or "spiritual malady," is considered the result of self-centeredness and selfishness; free will running amuck. . Most recovery programs have agreed that the spiritual malady is what creates the doors opening to the physical and emotional deprivations of addiction.

Discussion:
In order for us to understand why yoga is now at the forefront of innovative holistic treatment, lets investigate what takes place in the bodys systems and creates such devastation. MEDICAL AND PHYSICAL: The drugs of entry are alcohol, marijuana, sedatives, hypnotics and inhalants. Chemical Organic Brain Syndrome (COBS) is created when drugs alter chemistry of the brain. Materials within the brain cell mass are changed, lasting days, weeks, months and at times years. Although the high goes away, changes in the brain can linger at an unconscious level. Neurotransmitters (chemicals that nourish and transmit the neurons/nerve impulse) and brain cells themselves are destroyed, altered or blocked permanently. There are six categories of Mind Altering Drugs (MAD): marijuana sedative/hypnotics narcotics/analgesics (pain killers) inhalants hallucinogens psychomotor stimulants (upper drugs)

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

MARIJUANA: affects the brain by altering time and space perception, short term memory (STM) is impaired and speech becomes disassociated. The following are behavioral detriments: nerve/muscle coordination is altered hallucination with high dosage alters brain tissue and cause atrophy (brain shrinkage) misjudgment of distance, speed, relationships and reaction time decrease in motivation and altered concentration

The following are detriments in the Hypothalamus and Pituitary Glands: Marijuana causes the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to alter the sex stimulating hormones. In males, decreases in sperm and testosterone. In female, decreases in female hormones with alterations in ovulation. In a study of 12,000 women, the children of moms who smoked marijuana had more birth defects than those women who did not participate in smoking the drug

The following are detriments in the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems: Increased blood pressure and heart rate Redding, swelling and rupture of veins in eyes Alteration of body temperature Chronic cough and bronchitis, with ulceration and scaring of lungs Decrease of oxygen and blood flow to lungs Decrease in immunity to infections Impaired ability of bone marrow to produce bacteria-fighting cells Marijuana carries bacteria and fungi that causes lung infections Marijuana accumulate in the body and Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) becomes fat soluble, lingering in the cells and accumulating in the brain cells, blood and body system for lengthy periods of time Withdrawal is longer and subtle Symptoms of withdrawal are agitation, restlessness, sleep disorders, drug craving and emotional roller coaster

NOTE: marijuana plants are sprayed with dangerous pesticides, putting toxins into the bloodstream and throughout the body ALCOHOL: It is the most used and abused drug that negatively affects all organs and human tissues It affects physical and emotional development during adolescent years Dangerous to use as a senior because it speeds up aging process

Causes fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or fetal alcohol affects (FAA) if used during pregnancy Decreases muscle tones, lost of coordination and impairs articulation Sedative effect on the brain with depressive action causing respiratory arrest, cardiac irregularity, shock, coma, liver damage and in many cases, death Withdrawals are dangerous and uncomfortable, very physical, emotional and spiritually painful and requiring hospitalization

The Effect of Alcohol on the Brain: 1 Cup .02% Front Lateral Lobe Discernment impaired Inhibitions lowered Manic behavior Exaggerated disposition

3 Cups .06% - Temporal Lobe Reaction time delayed Co-ordination Peripheral vision Visual precision

5 Cups .10% - Middle Lobe Vision impaired Hallucinations Equilibrium Perception of color

8 Cups .16% - Middle Lobe/Oblong Walking Standing Controls breathing, circulation

20 Cups .40% - Back Lateral Lobe/ Cerebellum Loss of consciousness Coordinating center for muscular movement Spinal Cord contains nerve tissue of CNS

25 Cups .50% - Back Lateral Lobe Death

The Effects of Alcohol on the Body Difficulty thinking (STM, LTM) Loss of memory Loss of consciousness Jaundice-yellow skin with itching Change in bone morrow Swelling of veins in lungs (hemorrhage) Difficulty breathing Increase in lung size (swelling) Damage to heart Damage to liver (poor circulation) Dysfunction of red blood cells Accumulation of fluid in stomach Swelling of veins in stomach Swelling of veins in hands Debilitate sexual drive Bruise/dark spots Inflammation and water retention/swelling in legs

SEDATIVE/HYPNOTIC DRUGS: sleeping pills, alcohol, tranquilizers, and antihistamines How the brain is affected: All sedative drugs sedate the brain cells Progressive use creates deeper sedation affect Drug tolerance, when the body adjust to dose so it requires more ingested Telltale signs in brain begin to occur, such as lost of memory Sleep patterns disruptive, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) inhibited Restlessness, agitation and craving for more drug instead of rest

NARCOTICS (PAIN KILLERS) Heroin, morphine, Demerol, codeine, percodan, darvon, talwin, stadol, fentanyl Designer drugs effects serve nerve damage, palsy-like symptoms, permanent effect, even fatal Characteristics are highly addictive physically and psychologically Attach immediately to neural receptors in the brain and bowels

Interfere with brains production of natural opium-like substances called endorphins and neurotransmitters, making withdrawal difficult Numbs pain, but creates side effects; convulsions, interfere with REM sleep and sleep disturbance Slows heart, causing low blood pressure and shock Interferes with digestion, cause constipation Tolerance is quickly developed; higher doses required Withdrawal is very painful, lasting several weeks Severe muscle spasm, abdominal cramping, running eyes and nose, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, weakness Anxiety, restlessness, drug craving

STIMULANTS: cocaine, speed (amphetamines, Dexedrine, crystal meth, crank), Ritalin, ephedrine (nasal decongestant), look-alikes Creates a false sense of strength and confidence Heightened arousal and pleasure stimulant Goes to brain quickly 20 30 minute high, then severe crash, requiring more and more use of drug side effects are racing mind, increased alertness, charged up feeling, impaired judgment, decreased job efficiency severe drug craving crave more to reach previous heightened arousal physically stimulates muscle activity rapid speech/respirations increased blood pressure inflamed nasal membranes perforated septum bridge of nose collapses decreased appetite restlessness plugging up rectum, causing severe intestinal wall damage constipation urinary tract retention

COCAINE: extremely potent and dangerous physically and psychologically addiction can occur within 10 days affects neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that activate and transmit brain activity) brain cells block re-absorption of these chemicals after the neurotransmitters are stimulated goes to the brain quickly and high last only 20 to 30 minutes, followed by a severe crash, requiring more and more of the drug 8

tremendous craving, crash with exhaustion and sleep for days, depression, euphoria goes to dysphasia cocaine psychosis, alteration of senses, respiratory arrest, convulsions, even death

AMPHETMINES: Crystal meth or crank, Dexedrine, Ritalin rapid heart beat and high blood pressure sweating, dizziness, blurred vision, anxiety loss of appetite, strokes, psychoses, paranoia, delusions, bizarre behavior, disorientation behavior is driven by drugs chemical dependency psychological dependency (need it to have fun)

PSYCHEDELIC HALLUCINOGENS perceptual distorters: Hallucinogens have been used dating back to BC when human lives were sacrificed to false idols known as sacred deities. The Egyptians provided these perceptual distorters to slaves that were buried alive with their masters upon his/her death. Even in present history, hallucinogens are used for religious ritual for spiritual ceremonies among certain tribes. These drugs have great detriments and harm to the brain and central nervous system (CNS) Types include LSD, Mushrooms (psilocybin), Peyote/Mescaline, DOM/STP, Ecstasy (MDMS) Alters chemical transmission of nerve impulses, causing hallucinations Impair judgment of distance and time Decreases reflexes Long lasting and permanent damage to brain and CNS Distorted thought processes Brain burn out, unable to relate to what is occurring in the present Frightening flashbacks after drugs have left the system

PCP: this drug is extremely dangerous, abnormal activity may continue despite painful stimuli due to sense of pain receptors not registering to the CNS. Side effects include violent or hostile behavior, anxiety and illogical behavior, increase in blood pressure, muscle spasm, psychosis, convulsions, coma, respiratory and cardiac arrest, strokes and death. Withdrawal includes: Depression Anxiety Suicidal ideology Erratic behavior 9

Restlessness Mental health hospitalization or permanent residency

INHALANTS: these drugs are legal, cheap, and easy to obtain and hide. They are very deadly. Types include gasoline, lighter fluid, shoe polish, spray paint, thinner, glue, white-out, poppers (anal or butol nitrite) and permanent magic markers. Dangerous chemicals side effects: Serious, even permanent damage to the brain, liver, heart and kidneys Asphyxiation and death from lack of oxygen Drops in blood pressure, decrease in red and white blood cells, lowered immune system Severe inflammation of nose and lungs Heart irregularities Stress on the brain and cardio-respiratory tract may cause collapse and death Light intolerance, blurred or double vision, ringing in ears Develop mental illness and permanent dementia Body muscles become weak, joints become inflamed and painful Inflamed liver, hepatitis, kidney failure, kidney stones, inflammation of pancreas

Looking into the physical and medical aspect of controlled substance abuse, and how it alters the body/mind/spirit, can be somewhat difficult, especially if we can relate to these affects on a personal level. . PERSONAL/SOCIAL In regard to the personal/social aspect of addiction, it is important to recognize how addictions cut off vital relationships. Many times when a person is entrapped in their addiction they tend to be like an ostrich whose head is stuck in the sand, unaware of what is taking place around them and who is being affected by their addiction. Have you ever seen the size of an ostrich egg? It is very large and hard to miss, yet when addictions come into play; even the most obvious is over looked and easily forgotten. Consequently, this position not only is harmful to the addict, but also to the vital relationships that surround his/her life. ( NOTE: in pervious yoga therapy an ostrich egg is used as a visual prop to create a sense of body/mind/spiritual balance It is necessary to have an open and honest discussion how the head in the ground position impacts the vital life groups; self, family, culture, community, institutions and society

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Refer to the VITAL LIFE GROUP DIAGRAM to make a fearless inventory. Write down your beliefs how addictive behaviors impact the lives of each group. Think on the terms of the four developmental domains: physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual.

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

THE GOOD NEWS: 1 John 2:17 And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings of it; but he who does the will of God carries out His purpose in his life, abides forever. The good news is that as God reveals truth, we are charged to respond by making positive steps and solutions. Proverbs 16:9 A mans heart plans his way, but God directs his steps. A Plan of Action is what we are called to have so God can guide us into the path He has destined for our purpose of life to be fulfilled. Once sobriety is maintained there is a spiritual awakening during the recovery period, a willingness to surrender ones will over to God and truly be of service without motive or manipulation. This is a process (please read Psalm 57:8) (Psalm 16:9) Awake my soul, awake my song, awake my Strength! WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY: Galina Pembroke, publisher and editor-and-chief of New View magazine reported, Medical experts are theorizing that yoga may actually break the addictive cycle and indicated yoga therapy works in contrast to most therapies for addiction, which isolate either the psychological or physiological aspects. When the mind and body are connected and working in homeostasis the following is what occurs to assist in healing addiction: pranayama and asana unite the body and mind all together simultaneously restorative poses relax both the brain chemistry and body energy energy becomes yoked, strengthening change in unhealthy habits yogas non-competitive nature balances and calms the systems focus on success in effort instead of result yoga practice embraces your capabilities instead of cursing your limitations acceptance of how far one has come, instead of how much further one have to go

Dr Karel Nespor, psychiatrist with the Department of Addictions in Prague Czech Republic, used yoga to treat patients struggling with addiction. He stated: Yoga teaches slow, controlled movements instead of reflexive, automatic behavior. This may be useful also during normal daily activities when coping with stimuli that trigger addictive behavior.

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Narain Singh, in Rajasthan, New Delhi uses light yoga exercises along with group therapy to ease the pain of opium withdrawal. His first detoxification camp was instituted in 1979. BBC News reported that of the 16 opium addicts who converged, all left cured. "The basis of cure at the Camp was love, brotherhood and affection." THREE SPIRITUAL MODELS The 12 Steps The Eight Limbs (Ashtanga Yoga) Ten Commandments

God is the author of all wise works and our intent is to use these values and moral guidelines in working with Addicts in order for them to experience full homeostasis in body/mind/spirit. 1 Peter 5:10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. Twelve Steps The Founders of AA were Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob. In 1934 Bill became sober and in 1935 Dr. Bobs last drink was June 10, 1935. The Big Book, which contained the 12 Steps, was published in 1939. Research indicated that the writings were influenced from The Good Book (the Bible) The concepts of spiritual experiences, pass it on and moral inventory was derived from the Books of James, Matthew, 1 Corinthians 13, the Sermon on the Mount, and the 10 Commandments. Dr. Bobs was also inspired by the

sermons of his friend, Rev. Samuel Shoemaker, Jr.

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

1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol - that our lives had become unmanageable. 2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. 3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him. 4. Made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. 5. Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. 6. Were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. 7. Humbly asked Him to remove our shortcomings.

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8. Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all. 9. Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others. 10. Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it. 11. Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out. 12. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to alcoholics and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

The Eight Limb

In Patanjali's Yoga Sutra, the eightfold path is called ashtanga, which literally means "eight limbs" (ashta=eight, anga=limb). These eight steps basically act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. They serve as a prescription for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one's health; and they help us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature. Yama - The first limb, yama, deals with one's ethical standards and sense of integrity, focusing on our behavior and how we conduct ourselves in life. Yamas are universal practices that relate best to what we know as the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The five yamas are: Ahimsa: nonviolence Satya: truthfulness Asteya: nonstealing Brahmacharya: continence, self-restraint Aparigraha: noncovetousness Niyama - the second limb has to do with self-discipline and spiritual observances. Regularly attending temple or church services, saying grace before meals, developing

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your own personal meditation practices, or making a habit of taking contemplative walks alone are all examples of niyamas in practice. The five niyamas are: Saucha: cleanliness Samtosa: contentment Tapas: spiritual austerities Svadhyaya: study of the sacred scriptures and of one's self Isvara pranidhana: surrender to God

The 10 Commandments
The 10 Commandments are found in the Bible's Old Testament in Exodus, Chapter 20. They were given directly by God to the people of Israel at Mount Sinai after He had delivered them from slavery in Egypt: "And God spoke all these words, saying: 'I am the LORD your God ONE: 'You shall have no other gods before Me.' TWO: 'You shall not make for yourself a carved image--any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.' THREE: 'You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.' FOUR: 'Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.' FIVE: 'Honor your father and your mother.' SIX: 'You shall not murder.' SEVEN: 'You shall not commit adultery.' EIGHT: 'You shall not steal.' NINE: 'You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.' TEN: 'You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's.'

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Testimony of Progress to Change for At-Risk Populations

Many years ago I witnessed homeless five-year old children in Mexico City sniffing glue. It was devastating to see how these drugs fell into the venerable hands of innocent and already victimized children. There were no social services for the children at that time, but there was a handful of hermanos (brothers) who loved the Lord and opened a Casa de Caf por Dios (Gods Coffee House) so the children would be fed and hear the words of God through praise songs and unconditional love from these godly brothers and sisters. In Portland, Oregon, Street Yoga is a non-profit organization that takes yoga practice to the streets for the homeless youths; giving them a sense of hope and integrity in spite of their daily trials and uncertainty. They do funding raisers around yoga events to support their cause to help the youths to go within so they dont go without! The missing component is sharing the Word!

What greater karma yoga (selfless service) can we do, as Holy Yoga Therapists, then to bring the message of Gods love and compassion beyond the walls of churches, and classrooms and yoga studios and into the streets, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation facilities. Clearly, we are given discernment that the harvest is ready, but the laborers are few (Matthew 9:37) We are to glean as Ruth did, with loyalty and faithful trust of provision (Book of Ruth) to heal the addicts, the lost and the ones soon to be found for Gods purpose. The focus is for the Holy Yoga Ministry takes a faith step toward the rehabilitation arena and bring with it the true Vital Light Source, the Giver of Life and the Redeemer of all souls; no matter if their conditions are wounded, fragmented and brokenso the miracle of wholeness is the testimony of Love. TAKING THE RISK TO CHANGE In a certain sense, addictions are an alternative for what we truly hope for and desire. How often have we reached for a drink as a substitute for touch? Deep inside, we may sabotage heartfelt ambitions because we are fearful, either of failure or success. Internally, we feel unworthy of the wellbeing God desires for us to experience. We are assured in our meditative thoughts, (Act 2:26)Therefore, my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices, my body also will live in hope; because you will not abandon me to the grave; you have made known to me my path of life. What an awakening! What a call to recovery, healing, deliverance and being wholly. Now is the time to begin the good work!

Yoga Therapy for Addiction

In working with students who have been in recovery, we take into consideration; the time period of their recovery 16

how their drug of choice has impacted their homeostasis, physical, mental, cognitive and spiritual their capacity to be still and know.

There are points to consider when teaching holy yoga to students detoxing from stopping drugs, especially if you are in a hospital or rehabilitation setting: Is the CNS over firing or sluggish Observe for anxiety, agitation or exhaustion Affirm where ever they are at physically or mentally Ability to focus or remain in poses Is their energy so that you begin standing poses or in savasana Everyone breath is like their own unique finger-print, let them experiment Is music levels distracting due to heighten sensitivity to noise Make room to move from inappropriate to appropriate behaviors Use discretion on touching or decompressing spinal column, shoulders, etc. Choose simply Gods Word and keep it simple Integrate 12 steps into meditation Compassion, compassion, compassion with breath

Yoga for Addiction facilitates: A balanced approach to recovery Moderation in motion An antidote to the extremism that characterizes addiction As a model for compulsive behavior, by integrating control and release behaviors Correction through sensation by direct bodily experience Non-competitive nature, which balances us and encourages looking beyond conventional definitions of achievement Our success being dependent on effort instead of result Embracing capabilities instead of cursing ones limitations Experiencing the blessing and rewards of practice, unhealthy substitutes lose their flavor.

CONTEMPLATING THE DEPTH OF OUR CORE BEING Our body/mind/spirit design was created in Divine Order. It was not an evolutionary error! We were wonderfully and intimately created with over 72,000 pressure points. All of these energetic systems and sheaths of awakening were designed to make us fully present, as well to heal and manage our lives according to Gods Divine plan of purpose. Let us look at the correlation of the Five Koshas and Seven Chakras as we consider the energetic bodies capabilities and miraculous ability to heal damages in the systems.

The Five Koshas Model to discovery in recovery:

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Yoga philosophy teaches us that our physical body is actually composed of 3 bodies and that within these 3 bodies there are 5 layers. The 3 bodies are named: The Physical Body, The Astral Body and the Causal Body. The Physical Body Composed of just one layer: The Annamaya kosha. 1. Annamaya Kosha This is literally the food sheath or the physical body. It is composed of muscles, bones, skin, our organs and the entire physical manifestation of our being. It is what we see and feel physically, it is tangible and can be measured and has a 3 dimensional existence in time and space. Food is required to sustain the physical body. This kosha relates to all of the physical systems of the body, as well as the five elements of the physical body earth, water, fire, air and space. In terms of health, the annamaya kosha relates to balance in the elements. Yoga postures are a main vehicle for balancing the physical body. Eventually the body will decompose and return to the earth. The Astral Body - Composed of 3 sheaths The Pranamaya Kosha, Manomaya Kosha and the Vijnanamaya Kosha. 2. Pranamaya Kosha This pranic sheath is the energy body and is more subtle than the food sheath and contains the 72,000 nadis or astral tubes through which the prana or vital energy flows. The flow of your breath resides in this layer. It is in the pranic sheath that we experience heat, cold, hunger and thirst. When prana is blocked or stagnant, disease can occur. Yoga postures remove constrictions from the chakras and open the energy channels. 3. Manomaya Kosha Psycho-Mental body This sheath houses our thoughts including the logical mind and also our subconscious minds. It is where we process input from the outside world that we take in through the 5 senses. The working of this mind is automatic in nature. The central nervous system resides here and the basic drives and emotional responses associated with them. These include the fight or flight response, survival and reproduction, social roles and personality. Blockage in this body manifests as stress and eventually as a physical or mental illness. Yoga postures are a main vehicle for relieving stress and allowing relaxation. 4. Vijnanamaya Kosha The Wisdom Body or Intuitive Sheath. This is our higher consciousness or higher intelligence that detects patterns which are emotionally painful and physically harmful (such as an addiction lifestyle). It is here that we can cultivate the power of discrimination and can begin to overcome some of the automatic tendencies and eventually make the steps to change these inappropriate habits. This wisdom body houses our ego and is more subtle than the Mental Sheath. Yoga and meditation develop the calm concentration to be still and know to seek wisdom and understanding. 5. Anandamaya Kosha This is the bliss body the most subtle sheath of all. The karmic impressions are stored here and are said to control the formation and growth of the other two bodies. It is through this body that we experience deep joy and bliss. It is through the practice of yoga and meditation that we gain access and enter the doorway to

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our true purpose of life. As Christians, we find this awakening to be the deepest and most intimate state of being in the presence of God. Holy is His Name, we can only begin to rise up, only to surrender back into Humble Pose out of adoration and awe of Gods vastness and greatness. In this connectiveness to God it is unimaginable to live our lives without His sovereignty and love. Holy, holy, holy!

The Chakras:
The chakras are the center of vital energy force in the body and responsible for balance physically, psychological and spiritual. Yoga poses are pathways for opening and balancing the chakras. Nadis are housed in the Astral Body. Like the central nervous system and the blood stream, the nadis transport energy from one part of the body to other parts of the body. The places where many nadis intersect are the chakras, which operate as a spiraling disk that propels energy along the spinal column.

The First Chakra Muladhara, Location - base of the body, Element earth, Color red, Kosha - Annamayakosha (physical body), Issues - survival fear, Balanced groundedness and safety, Areas of body eliminatory system, legs and feet Health 19

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

The Second Chakra Swadhisthana, Location four fingers below naval, Element water, Color orange, Kosha Pranamaya (Energy body) , Issues intimacy, emotions, Balanced healthy sexuality, Areas of body reproduction and pelvic area Health problems reproductive Yoga Postures hip openers, stabilization, forward bends The Third Chakra Manipura , Location solar plexus, Element fire, Color yellow, Koshas Manomaya (Psycho-Emotional Body), Issues self esteem, social roles Balanced healthy social roles, Areas of body stomach, liver, small intestine, Health problems digestive, Yoga Postures twists, lateral bends, back bends The Forth Chakra Anahata, Location heart, Element fire, Color green, Kosha Mano/Vijnyanamaya (Wisdom Body), Issues depression, pessimism, Balanced unconditional love, Areas of body heart, lungs, shoulders, arms Health problems heart, respiratory, Yoga Postures back bends, lateral bends The Fifth Chakra Vishuddha, Location throat, Element air, Color blue, Kosha Vijnyanamaya (Wisdom Body), Issues intuition, communication, Balanced internal focus of control, Areas of body throat, speech, Yoga Postures back bends, forward bends, lion breath The Sixth Chakra Ajna, Location third eye, Element space, Color violet, Kosha Anandamaya (Bliss Body), Issues dedication to spiritual path, Balanced calm and focused, Areas of Body the senses, Heath problems sense related, Yoga Postures balance, inversions, savasana The Seventh Chakra Shahasrara, Location crown, Element space, Color Crystal Light, Koshas Anandamaya (Bliss Body), Issues spiritual separation, Balanced Unity Consciousness ( Fellowship with Believers), Health problems separation from source of Spirit, Yoga Postures inversions, meditation

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

When the mind and body are connected and working in homeostasis the following is what occurs to assist in healing addiction: pranayama and asana unite the body and mind all together simultaneously Restorative poses relax both the brain chemistry and body energy Energy becomes yoked, strengthening change in unhealthy habits Yogas non-competitive nature balances and calms the systems Encourages success in effort instead of result 20

Yoga practice embraces your capabilities instead of cursing your limitations Acceptance of how far one has come, instead of how much further one have to go

With reflection of points to consider, the following is an example of a specific yoga practice model, developed by Addiction Specialist, Dr. Nespor, who recommended a yoga program that progresses from: Posture to breath work Breath-work to meditation The following is an example: Marjarisina (cat): While on your hands and knees, you inhale as head elevates and your stomach drops. Pause briefly. Ushtrasana (camel): Begin by kneeling. Reach back towards your calves. Gently return forward if there is too much discomfort. Those more experienced may rest their hands on their ankles. Return within one minute Full yoga breath (complete breath): Sit down with legs seated comfortably and shoulders back. Inhale as deeply as you can while maintaining smooth breath. Note your belly expanding. As you exhale, feel your belly sink and lungs empty. Do not force-yield. Continue for five minutes. (This exercise should be performed in an area with fresh, clean air). Shavasana (corpse): Lying on the floor with your legs comfortable apart and arms limp by your side. Observing your breath, your thoughts are directed towards detecting and discarding any remnants of tension. Thoughts are regarded then thoughts are released. This is the birth of mindfulness.

Note: you may use yoga blocks for the Ushtrasana pose Another yoga practice model is by Cherie, yoga therapist and yoga retreat facilitator in London, UK. She suggested using the following asana to create a new perspective and begin to eliminate emotional duress: Adho Mukha Svasana (Downward Facing Dog) - bring a new perspective and allows looking into the world from a different angle Light backbend poses - bring about an opening in the chest and solar plexus area, encouraging the elimination of stored hurt (both real and perceived) Apanasana knees to chest or wind producing pose Seated or lying twists Viparita karani - shoulder/stand/variation

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From my own personal work for and with at-risk youth and adults in recovery, I have learned that everyones level of success is unique and special, and with that in mind I approach the Holy Yoga practice with a open mind and open heart. THE ROLE OF MUSIC THERAPY Music is two fold: holistic healing and meditative brings us into a spiritual space of worship creates a vibration of healing energy into the cells through the whole systems vibrations of tones along the chakras open blocks to receive healing

play list selected for healing of at-risk populations: WORDS OF GOD SPEAK by Mercy Me CRY OUT TO JESUS by Third Day HELD by Natalie Grant PRELUDE TO A KISS by Alicia Keys

If the student choices to hum, it is even more beneficial: The vibration along the esophagus begins an opening of the throat chakra (internal voice that has not been heard due to the numbness and detachment of the addiction state), creating release of energy and gasp for breath (allowing a new beginning of taking in the vital life breath of the Divine). CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE HEALING POSES Kinepathic Forgiveness Pose draw in Gods breath while arms, side body positioned, flow in a circular, inward vortex movement, towards the body. Continue in a fluid, energetic movement, while gently breathing; inhaling and exhaling; up to eight counts or more if needed. Draw the arms outward to shoulder length (as if you are slowly extending a musical Accordion), opening the heart center. Slowly, with breath work, bring the palms together (you will sense the chi, prana, God given molecules creating a magnetic field of energy) and gentle draw the hands toward the floor chakra. Cup your hands and continue to breath, drawing upward along the Chakra pathways of the spinal columnpause by your heart. Set you intent!

During this moment of reflection meditation words can be spoken. Keep it simple: Leave it and let go . Unforgiveness is one of the major hindrances that can obstruct healing.

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Mark 11: 25 26 and whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go) in order that your Father, who is in heaven may also forgive you your (own) failings and shortcomings and let them drop; but if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your failings and shortcomings. As the cupped hands move from the heart chakra, up towards the throat chakra, speak words of release (may it be a physical concerns or emotional thought that no longer serve a purpose), and draw hands together over the third eye chakra (as if youR eyes are glancing through lenses, the window of the soul). Take a profoundly deep breath and energetically exhale (a loud groan may manifest) , extending arms with praise hands (fearless mundra) over the head. Upon release open arm wide and let them float to your side and flow into Tadasana (Mountain Pose). This can be repeated two more times. Students greatly benefit from this pose by the removal of stagnant energy blocks and opening of vital life force; creating a flow of Divine grace and homeostasis. Note: Teacher will give demonstration of the Forgiveness Pose (use stash closet analogy) Lion Breath another excellent release of tension in the CNS and allowing the blockage of the inner voice; creating communication and dialogue regarding the behavioral issues around addiction. Circle Savasana - have students arrange their mats into a circle and lye down with their feet in the same direction, creating a small inner circle (their feet may touch). This meditative positioning provides a sense of awareness that they are supporting one another and are not doing the deal alone. Jesus said he would never leave us or forsake us and this circle of meditative unity where two or more are gathered in his name, demonstrates a visual imagery that he truly is in the mist of them.

Pre-Assignment Work:
Master Students will do research on the listed asanas and be ready to participate and discuss how therapeutically beneficial the poses are for the recovery of addictions
Please refer to the below examples to get you started:

Twists

Ardha Matsyendrasana (seated spinal twist) benefits: open the rib cage and breath, massages the digestive organs and the immune system, and sedates the nervous system

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 Hip Openers
Setubandhasana (Bridge pose) benefits: strength the back, buttocks, legs and ankles, open the chest, solar plexus and hips, massages the kidneys, thyroid and adrenal glands

Stabilization
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog) benefits: creates integration and balance between upper and lower body, strengthens and stretches legs and shoulders, calming for the nervous system.

NOTE: Now its your turn to share your knowledge regarding the benefits of the listed poses: Back Bends Lateral Bends Standing Forward Bends Balance Inversions

Conclusion: This session is dedicated to the many brothers and sisters who have been set free and to those who are yet to be set free from addictions of all manners. I am truly grateful and give God the glory from deliverance of an addictive lifestyle. By the Son of God truly setting me free I am a living testimony of healing and wholeness. This amazing journey to take a pro-active and compassionate step as a Holy Yoga Therapist is one that will provide many days of challenges, surrender to our Greatest Source and allowing the truth (that it is not about the yoga) to resonate in order for your holy yoga ministry to enter into a deeper dimensional relationship of Christ-like service. John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, then to lay down ones life for his friend. When we are called to bow down all that we have in body/mind/spirit so we can walk, talk, cry and laugh with God in order to demonstrate obedience to his commandments is when the Spirit awaken a new journey of love within us for our fellow men and women. This presentation is a compassionate call for Professionals, Holistic and Yoga Therapist to take the healthy risk to bring holy yoga and meditation to addicts so they may be healed and made whole. Proverbs 11:13 He who wins lives (souls) is wise. May we all enter this state of wisdom.

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Finally, holy yogis, it was written upon my heart by the Holy Spirit many years ago these words, Every aspect of growth comes from the recognition that God is building my character by every situation, dilemma and encounter set before me, and with this knowledge I am to press forward. It is my pray that you all may press forward with this knowledge and allow God to bless each and every situation, dilemma and encounter as he raises you up as Holy Yoga Therapist. Blessed are the balanced (please read 2 Peter 3; 17) Ephesians 5:15 Live life with a due sense of responsibility, not as those who do not know the meaning of life, but as those who do. May our Vital Life Force, Jesus, resonate peace, harmony and love. Gina Tricamo,R.Y. T., M H.Y. T. Addiction Bible Scriptures Resource: Bob and Shelley, founders and creators of Addiction Bible Scripture E-book, has created an on line book filled with Scripture dealing with all the issues around the wreckage of addiction and regarding the healing of recovery . Their intent is to, bring recovery back to the bible. The e-book is based upon biblical truths that will guide the seeker from the prison of addiction and compulsion to feeling as if God is speaking directly, and giving strength and hope to continue in the path of wholeness in body/mind/spirit. NOTE: Please refer to the below LINK and resource in developing and infusing the Word into your Holy Yoga Therapy sessions for Addiction. Addiction Bible Scriptures
http://www.drug-alcohol-addiction-recovery.com/support-files/addiction-biblescriptures-master.pdf

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