If you are working a program of addiction recovery, you know that success rests on more than just abstaining. Sure, drugs and alcohol were big part of your problems, staying away from them is vital. But, working a program calls for much more than that. Those who succeed at achieving long-term recovery, make significant changes in their outlooks and behaviors. If addiction be a life of pessimism, recovery then must be built upon optimism. Ever reminding oneself that any obstacle that arises will pass at some point. It is how you choose to handle adversity that will be the difference between continued recovery and relapse.
Those of you who have been in the “rooms” of recovery for even a short time have heard pithy sayings and acronyms. Platitudes that, while trite at times, are both true and can be helpful. “It works if you work it.” “Keep it simple, stupid.” “Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired (HALT).” Are a few examples. Each one valuable in their own ways.
Alcoholics and addicts are excellent at getting caught up in their own heads. Overthinking things, in some cases, right into a bottle. We tend to isolate from our peers, especially when we need support the most. People in recovery often struggle to focus on living a healthy lifestyle. And those who fail to treat their body as a temple in recovery often encounter problems.
A Healthy Addiction Recovery
The acronym H.A.L.T. is an extremely valuable tool. A reminder that one needs to be mindful of what they ingest, i.e. is the food I’m eating healthy? Am I consuming three meals a day? Am I being sure to not let my emotions control my actions? Do I spend enough time with my recovery peers outside of meetings? Or do I just rush home after the Serenity Prayer is said aloud? Do I make a conscience effort to get about 8-hours of sleep each night?
Some of those considerations may seem like common sense to somebody without a use disorder. Yet, for many people working a program they can be easily forgotten. When that happens, one’s perspective can quickly shift from optimism to a glass half empty outlook. If such a course is not corrected, relapse can become a reality.
With health in mind, getting enough exercise can help one stay the course in recovery. When we feel good, we live good. Eating healthy and exercising regularly can significantly improve our outlook, helping us be of better service to others. A salient facet of addiction recovery is being there for our fellow alcoholic or addict. If we feel unhealthy, one focuses on their own wants and needs. Forgetting that this whole enterprise rests on fellowship.
Some of you reading this might not be able to exercise in the traditional sense of going to the gym. That’s OK. Just taking a 30-minute walk everyday can go a long way. If you need a low-impact activity, see if there is a public pool in your area. Taking the initiative with improving your health can greatly strengthen your program. Maybe you have a friend in the program who will join you in your endeavor for a healthier life, and recovery.
Addiction Treatment and Physical Health
At Hope by The Sea we emphasize the importance of healthy minds and bodies. Recovery depends on treating the whole patient. Addiction atrophies the mind and body, over the course of your stay we will work with you or your loved one to reverse the damage done. Upon discharge, a healthier client has a healthier recovery. Please contact us today to discuss treatment options.