Silent healer: Meditation and its effects on treating substance abuse

Addiction has become a public health crisis today, affecting millions of lives worldwide. Synthetic opioids like illicit fentanyl have worsened the concern, leading to devastating consequences. According to a WHO report, 80% of drug-related deaths in 2019 were linked to opioids, with 25% attributed to overdoses. While traditional treatment methods play a critical role, the complexity of addiction calls for innovative approaches that go beyond conventional therapies. As part of native medicine, yoga-based meditative interventions have always existed as powerful tools to combat this battle. Leveraging the traditional Indian Knowledge Systems and the brilliance of modern science, they offer a holistic approach to healing, addressing the root causes of addiction and paving the way for lasting recovery.
MBRT, a combination of meditation, breathwork and yogic practices – based on the principles of evidence-based Yoga of Immortals (YOI) modalities – offers an integrative approach to preventing and managing addiction. This technique has shown clinical efficacy in enhancing lifestyle and improving quality of life. By merging ancient meditative and healing traditions with contemporary medical knowledge, MBRT addresses the root causes of addiction, including mental, psychosocial, and spiritual imbalances.
Emerging research reveals that mindfulness meditation enhances connectivity and activity in the regions of the brain associated with emotion regulation. By promoting emotion regulation and enhancing brain activity related to self-control, meditation helps in preventing and treating addictions such as tobacco, alcohol, cocaine, and even behavioural disorders like obesity, gambling, and excessive internet use. MBRT encourages individuals to focus on the present moment, interrupting the thought processes associated with substance-seeking behaviours. By doing so repeatedly, it provides innovative coping strategies for stress and helps individuals develop healthier habits.
The physiological benefits
Regular yoga-based practices also have profound physiological benefits that support recovery. It can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance immune function. These effects restore the mind-body connection, promoting a sense of vitality and well-being that serves as a powerful antidote to addiction.
Yogic practices are increasingly incorporated into substance abuse treatment programmes for children and adults. They help prevent relapse, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and manage drug cravings. By equipping individuals with tools to cope with potential triggers and daily stressors, MBRT supports sustained recovery. Programmes like YOI are at the forefront of this movement, integrating meditation and yogic practices to support wellness and resilience. YOI provides a structured path to mental and physical healing, and many participants have reported improved self-control and reduced cravings.
By adopting meditative modalities, individuals can cultivate inner strength and resilience essential for combating addiction. However, they must be done under the guidance of an experienced Guru or meditation expert. Overall, these practices lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle, leading to health, happiness, and fulfilment through a profound sense of well-being.

Dr Ishan Shivanand, mental health researcher and the Founder of Yoga of Immortals.