Have you recently completed treatment at a rehab center? Congratulations!
After completing substance abuse treatment, it’s important to develop a new routine. Unfortunately, as many as 60% of people who complete substance use disorder treatment relapse. Adding sober activities to your routine can provide you with healthy ways to socialize without alcohol or drugs.
Not sure how to spend your time? Read on for five activities that are fun for everyone!
1. Exercise
Exercising is a great way to improve your health after alcohol or drug abuse and spend time with friends. It can also:
- Ease anxiety, depression, and stress
- Curb cravings
- Replace your triggers
- Help you think clearly
- Improve your ability to sleep
- Improve your self-esteem
Consider exploring physical activities you haven’t in the past. For example, you and your friends can join an aerobic or cardio exercise class. You can also try water aerobics, dancing, hiking, or boxing.
Resistance and strength-training exercises can include weightlifting, yoga, and pilates. Add exercise to your routine early in your substance abuse treatment.
Check recovery groups to determine if they have exercise programs you can join. You can find a rehab based in Tuscon here.
2. Step Outside
Connecting with nature is a meditative and refreshing experience. Consider:
- Hiking
- Having a bonfire
- Camping
- Going apple-picking
- Enjoying a sunset
Consider exploring new natural landmarks in your area or finding hiking trails. Spending time in nature will create a physical distance between you and old triggers. Health benefits include less stress and a lower heart rate.
3. Volunteering
Substance and alcohol abuse can damage relationships. Try making new connections and giving back to the community by volunteering. You can:
- Participate in a food drive or fundraiser
- Donate school supplies
- Donate to families in need
- Find a local organization
Volunteering will give you a new purpose. It could help you remain focused on your sobriety. Visit your local rehab clinic to determine if they offer volunteer opportunities.
4. Learn Something New
Alcohol and substance abuse can damage your brain over time. Try building new mental connections by learning something new. For example:
- Cooking new dishes
- Learning card tricks
- Learning a new language
- Escape rooms
- Dance classes
- New sports
You can also explore your creative side by learning how to play an instrument, sew, or paint. Consider taking a creative writing class or journaling to process your thoughts.
5. Substance Abuse Support Groups
Visit your local rehab center to find a substance abuse support group. Joining a support group can help you lean on people who were once in your shoes. Their experiences can help you maintain your sobriety.
Your local rehab clinic may offer sober meet-up events. These events can help you build connections and a community. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Enjoy These Sober Activities Today
Maintaining your sobriety can feel like a challenge without help. Use these sober activities to connect with others and yourself. Adding these activities to your routine could be the distraction you need.
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