Recovery is not only the clinical work. Alongside detox and therapy, a stay at Abbington House includes regular activities and wellness sessions that support people physically and emotionally, and give the day a rhythm beyond the harder work of treatment.
These sessions are part of the stay, not an extra. Movement, rest, creativity and time outdoors all play a part in helping people feel steadier, sleep better, and reconnect with themselves as treatment progresses.
Physical Wellness Activities
Physical Wellness Activities
Getting active, in a way that suits the person, is part of feeling stronger and more grounded during a stay. Activities run through the week in a supportive setting.
- Gym and free weights (Wednesdays and Saturdays). Time in the gym to build strength and fitness. Exercise is a useful outlet for stress and supports both physical and mental health.
- Boxing (Wednesdays and Saturdays). A popular session for releasing tension and building focus, in a structured, energising format.
- Swimming (Mondays). A low-impact, restorative way to exercise, used for relaxation as much as fitness.
- Walks (Tuesdays and Thursdays). Time outdoors in a social setting. Fresh air and a change of scene matter during a stay.
Wellness sessions
Alongside physical activity, a range of wellness sessions support relaxation, emotional regulation and a way of processing things that does not always rely on words. People take part as part of their treatment plan, in agreement with their therapist.
Sound Therapy/Gong Bath
Sound Therapy/Gong Bath
Sound therapy is a form of meditation using gongs, Tibetan bowls, koshi chimes and stringed instruments to create sound vibrations that calm the nervous system. Sessions begin with grounding to bring awareness to the senses, then the instruments are played, and the session closes with gentle movement and stretching. The sounds help with deep relaxation and emotional processing, without needing any meditation experience. It is a therapy without words: there is nothing to explain, only sound to settle into while the body relaxes. Some people fall asleep, which is a sign of how deeply they relax.
Every Friday, 1:30pm – 2:45pm. Facilitator: Claire White.
Mindfulness & Yoga
Mindfulness & Yoga
Mindfulness and yoga
A combination of gentle movement, breathwork and mindfulness to help regulate emotions and manage stress. Each session begins with grounding and mindful awareness before moving into gentle yoga postures that encourage relaxation and a sense of connection with the body. Mindful movement and focused breathing calm the mind and body, helping to release physical tension and build resilience.
Every Thursday, 10:30 – 11:30am. Facilitator: Claire Winterbourne.
Art Therapy
Art Therapy
A creative outlet for processing emotions, building connection, and easing the isolation that often comes with addiction. Art therapy makes room for emotional expression and self-discovery in a way that talking does not always reach.
Every Wednesday, 2:00 – 3:00pm. Facilitator: Sasha Aylwen.
Breathwork Therapy
Breathwork Therapy
Breathwork
A guided breathwork practice to support emotional release and relaxation. People are guided through conscious connected breathing, in a circular rhythm, to reach a deep state of relaxation and self-awareness. Sessions include meditation, drumming and a carefully chosen playlist. Breathwork can help bring balance back to the body, releasing emotions that have been held onto and helping the nervous system settle.
Fortnightly, Saturday mornings, 10:30 – 11:30am. Facilitator: Rebecca Polydorou.
Reiki
Reiki
A gentle, non-intrusive form of energy work that supports relaxation and emotional release. Reiki can ease stress and tension, and many people report feeling calmer, more grounded, and sleeping better afterwards. It brings attention to the present moment, making space for a sense of calm.
Reiki is available to people staying at Abbington House for 28 days or longer. In agreement with your therapist, you may have between one and three sessions as part of your treatment plan, each lasting 30 to 45 minutes. Facilitator: Sasha Aylwen.
Part of the wider stay
These sessions sit alongside the core of treatment: detox where needed, individual and group therapy, family support and aftercare. You can read more about how the stay works on our residential rehab page.