Perspectives of Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit Interventions Among Women with Substance Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study

The growing interest and acceptance of Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit (IBMS) practice in recovery has created opportunities to explore new adjunct interventions for substance use disorder (SUD). Additionally, more and more people are seeking out the services of IBMS alongside conventional treatments, thereby engaging in dual interventions. This qualitative study aimed to gather perspectives about the experience of IBMS interventions (acupuncture, meditation, and Himalayan salt treatment) in combination with traditional SUD treatment. Twelve adult females in a residential recovery program completed weekly IBMS interventions and offered their experiences through survey responses. Themes identified that reduced stress led to greater body awareness and relaxation among participants. This contributed toward using IBMS as an alternative coping mechanism to substances and greater clarity with their life's purpose. The results of this study underscore the importance for expanded research on the effects of IBMS interventions used in the treatment of SUD