It’s common to think we can get by on little sleep occasionally, as we can always make it up later. In reality, we should pay close attention to our “sleep hygiene” and do all we can to get better rest. What Is Sleep Hygiene? The Sleep Foundation defines sleep hygiene as “a variety of different...Read More

Self-care is often a buzzword that many people grow weary of hearing, simply because they think it involves a lot of snake-oil products or unrealistic methods. While there might be a little of that in the marketplace, it benefits you to take the concept seriously and develop what helps you be your best. “You Can’t...Read More

When you feel you’re about to be overcome by your thoughts or emotions, knowing how to “urge surf” can help bring you back to center. This mindfulness technique, often used in addiction recovery, is also an essential coping skill for better mental and emotional health. What Is Urge Surfing? The foundation of urge surfing is...Read More

Take a moment to think about the last time you got into the “flow” of something. Often described as being completely energized by and immersed in a pleasurable activity, flow is one of the primary benefits of dedicating yourself to hobbies that establish the framework of a full, rich life. Why Flow Helps You Positive...Read More

All too often, it’s easy to feel as though anxiety will completely consume you. Caught up in a particular moment, the challenge to return to a calm place is sometimes overwhelming. Fortunately, breathwork techniques can help. The Power of Breathwork For many of us, breathing is automatic, and we rarely give it a second thought....Read More

Sometimes, long-term inpatient rehabilitation services are necessary for addressing certain mental and emotional health issues, addiction, or PTSD. In other instances, an individual might not require such extensive care, or be unable to commit to a lengthened stay because of family or work responsibilities. That’s why it’s good to understand how outpatient treatment might help....Read More

Holistic practices are wonderful for balancing daily life. One method in particular, meditation, consistently performs well in various scientific studies—and in most instances, it’s free. So how does a meditation practice help your mood? What the Science Says Meditation has been around for thousands of years and is practiced in cultures around the world. But...Read More

In many respects, social media can be an effective point of meaningful connection for many people—such as Cottonwood’s Instagram and Facebook pages, for example. But some experts believe it might do more harm than good. Which is right? Depending on how you view social media, you might already have an opinion about this issue. The...Read More

About Compulsive Behaviors All of us have particular habits and characteristics, so what classifies something as a compulsive behavior that may be harmful to you or others? Simply put, Psychology Today reports that someone exhibiting compulsive behavior does so “to relieve underlying anxieties or negative emotions. While the behavior doesn’t necessarily lead to any end...Read More

The Importance of Integrated Treatment in Substance Abuse   The mind, body, and spirit are found in all human beings. We think and feel with our minds, experience pleasure and pain within our bodies, and feel spiritually connected to a higher power. Substance abuse treatment should also encompass the whole person and incorporate the mind,...Read More