No tags yet.
There's no question that exercise helps you feel better, but for those working through a drug or alcohol use disorder, physical fitness can also be a powerful tool for recovery. People on the recovery path often have cravings for substances that deliver feelings of relief or energy known as a “high.” Physical activity produces endorphins and endocannabinoids that result in a feeling often referred to as a “runner's high.” This is a primary factor in how exercise aids in recovery from addiction, and these tips can help you develop a worthwhile regimen.
Treat Withdrawal Symptoms With Physical Activity:
When people in recovery programs first stop using drugs or alcohol, they experience withdrawal symptoms. A consistent physical fitness routine provides relief from those symptoms and offers several related benefits:
Decreases cravings
Boosts self-esteem
Reduces anxiety
Improves quality of sleep
Restores brain cells
Although many types of exercise provide these results, some of the most effective and popular exercises used in recovery programs include biking, running, walking, weightlifting, and yoga.
Find Motivation for Exercise:
For the most meaningful results, it's important to maintain a healthy routine that will last for the long term. Motivation is a vital component of success in this area. Some tips for finding and maintaining the motivation to stay active as work, school, and other obligations take precedence include:
Recording the benefits of exercise, such as improved cardiovascular fitness, weight control, and reduced risk of many medical conditions
Writing down health goals that are specific, measurable, realistic, and tied to a time limit
Imagining the workouts and picturing the exercise in a positive light
Involving a friend in each workout for commitment and support
Keeping track of progress
Choosing activities that are fun, such as bike riding or playing basketball
It's also important to recognize that there will be setbacks along the way. Recognize that there will be days when the planned physical activity isn't possible or your motivation wanes. Reading through the listed benefits and health goals could be helpful in regaining some of that motivation.
Take Advantage of Modern Technology:
Sometimes, people struggle to maintain fitness routines because of concerns about money. It's true that gym memberships and purchasing equipment can become expensive. Instead, it's okay to use modern technology for benefits such as digital fitness training programs or fitness apps, such as a smartwatch, that track progress. It isn't necessary to buy a smartwatch because many apps are available on phones, but watches can provide tracking information that helps you stay safe and healthy.
Incorporate a Self-Care Routine:
Self-care is also an important aspect of physical fitness during the recovery process and is a big part of mental health. One of the first steps to take in self-care is ensuring that the home is a safe and comfortable place. There are simple tasks that can be completed to create a positive, healing atmosphere, such as decluttering and organizing the home. According to several studies, cluttered homes correlate with higher anxiety. A lot of clutter can also lead to too many visual stimuli, which can limit your ability to process your environment.
The misuse of any substance can cause harm to the body, so appropriate exercise and consistent focus on improving both physical and mental health are important to lasting recovery. Many recovery programs today include physical fitness to decrease the risk of relapse and increase feelings of control and success.
Take the monotony out of exercise and your fitness to the next level with unique and enjoyable fitness plans from KinFit!
Image via Unsplash