| This theoretical study examines the image of body, as defined by its physical, emotional, and subtle aspects in the healing of addictions. Through the application of depth psychology, neuroscience, somatic psychology, and quantum physics, this theoretical research recovers a multidimensional view of the body and integrates the somatic and subtle dimensions of the body into the clinical work of healing addictive disorders. This research examines the topic of embodiment from an alchemical hermeneutic approach in order to make space for imaginal perspectives and for the researcher's own embodied process.;This research challenges the current paradigm in depth psychology and suggests an embodied approach to understanding. It suggests that the use of the physical bodily sensations and symptoms, as well as imaginal perspectives, allows a clinician to become aware of the voice of the somatic unconscious. Both the field of neuroscience and that of somatic psychology have demonstrated that past trauma is embodied in present physiological states and action tendencies. Research has shown that most addicted persons struggle to identify feelings and have a disconnection in linking between sensation and affect, which leads to impaired insight and judgment and a diminished capacity for the modulation of arousal. Although all bodily and movement-centered therapies can be effective in treatment, the technique favored by this research is the integration of yoga and mindfulness into the psychological treatment of addictions.;The infinite source of healing available in the collective unconscious can be experienced in the subtle-body energies that are found in the transference field, which can activate a new archetypal pattern of healing. Embodiment is significant not only for the patient, but also for the treatment providers; success in early recovery involves a strong enough container to break through the repetition compulsion behind all addictive behaviors. What this study calls forth is an embodied shift in clinical psychology to introduce a consciousness that reflects on the infinite potentialities in the quantum field. This study also supports the perspective that clinicians be embodied in their own mind, body, and psyche.;Keywords: addictions, yoga, mindfulness, integrative, embodiment, quantum physics, depth psychology, treatment. |
