3 Hobbies that Support Recovery
When struggling with addiction, it’s normal to distance yourself from the people and environments that remind you of drugs or alcohol. Because addiction tends to take over your life and activities, you may find yourself with a lot of idle time on your hands—leaving you more vulnerable to negative thoughts and feelings that can trigger a relapse.
Finding a hobby that you thoroughly enjoy to fill that free time can not only help to keep you busy, but support your journey toward recovery and wellness. Read on to learn more about the role that positive activities can play in the recovery process.
1. Yoga
Finding a hobby that combines mental and physical activity can help to support your mental health while effectively warding off the desire to return to familiar coping mechanisms. Many holistic addiction treatment programs include yoga because it helps to connect the mind and body, helping participants become more self-aware.
Some of the many benefits of yoga include:
- Decreased feelings of anxiety.
- Fewer depressive episodes.
- Reduces stress levels.
- Reduced heart rate.
- Lowered blood pressure.
- Slowed breathing.
2. Playing Sports
Whether you prefer independent activities like running marathons or team sports, getting regular exercise isn’t just good for your physical health—it helps to support your emotional health and wellness too.
Some mental health benefits of physical hobbies include:
- Increased stress levels.
- Improved self-esteem and confidence.
- Improved quality of rest.
- Increased concentration.
- Increased feelings of commitment and accountability.
- Fosters healthy relationships with participants.
3. Making Art
From sculpting to painting to making music and dancing, making art is an excellent form of self-expression that can also support the recovery process. In fact, art therapy is commonly used in mental health and addiction treatment programs to help manage distressing and overwhelming emotions.
Some of the main benefits of making your own art include:
- Improved self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Emotional release and expression.
- Reduced stress levels.
Seeking Help at The Good Life Treatment Center
At The Good Life Treatment Center, we’re a different kind of treatment center—we believe in the treatment and recovery of the body, mind, and spirit. We’re committed to working with you to help remove the burdens of shame and guilt that addiction so often brings. We think there’s a better, freer way, to live life.
To learn more about the addiction treatment options offered at The Good Life Treatment Center, call us at (561) 250-8552 or get in touch with us online today!
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