The Snow and Experiential Activities
The Cirque Lodge has seen its first big snow of the year. This snow kind of changes the elements of our experiential program. At Cirque, experiential activities (Used for instruction, enjoyment and skill building) are an integral, effective and unique part to the more traditional forms of alcohol or drug rehab. We use our mountain location, the river and nature as venues for a number of therapeutic activities. Well, when it snows a lot of these activities change. Nature hikes, and outdoor activities are now performed with snow shoes. Usually on the snowy days the experiential program turns to the indoors for ropes activities and working with horses in the indoor arena.
Experiential work is a highly effective difference to alcohol and drug rehab at the Cirque. In addition to a personalized program, experiential work teaches needed lessons on recovery, and methodologies to challenge the mindsets and behaviors of alcoholism or drug addiction. These activities are challenging, but also fun and engaging. Some require individuals to work as a team, and also in developing skills in asking for help with things beyond our control; something that alcoholics and addicts can struggle with.
Experiential activities also provide individuals with healing and spiritual recovery. The Cirque Lodge is founded on the 12-step program, and the 12-steps are geared to help individuals with a recovery of body, mind and spirit. Individuals who struggle with substance abuse can be at low ebb spiritually. Nature, the mountain (even in the snow), and support are used in helping the alcoholic/addict with this type of recovery. Vital spiritual experiences are a life changing solution to the struggle. The ruling forces of addiction begin to be replaced by the new healthy concepts of sobriety. Even though the snow is falling, the life changing impact of Cirque’s experiential program continues to help individuals in finding positive solutions for their addictions.