When we are in active addiction, we spend a lot of time maintaining our relationship with our drug of choice. Whether it was alcohol, opiates, methamphetamine, or any other variety of drugs out there, our substance abuse stole a tremendous amount of our focus. When we weren’t physically taking in the substance, our thoughts focused on when we could use it again. Nevertheless, in recovery, we must participate in sober activities to replace our newfound time. Fortunately, there are many sober activities available for individuals in addiction recovery.
Replacing Substance Abuse With Recovery
Recovery isn’t easy. Studies have shown us again and again that relapse usually happens early in the process. One of the more difficult tasks of recovery from substance abuse is the challenge of filling those hours we once dedicated to using our drug of choice. It may seem like an insurmountable amount of time, but with a little practice (and perspective), you’ll find that the hours fly by even faster in recovery. Below are a few examples of ways that we can fill our time in early recovery.
Engage in Exercise and Physical Activity
Exercise is extremely good for you. It can foster some much-needed rebuilding of your body that may have been significantly impacted by your substance abuse. Exercise empowers us with self-confidence and releases neurotransmitters that increase our sense of well-being and positivity.
Engaging in physical activity doesn’t mean you have to join a gym. Lots of fun activities count as exercise. You can learn about mushroom foraging and explore the local woods to hunt them. You can take walks through town and enjoy being near people without having to socialize. Additionally, consider taking up tennis, golf, or kickball. Doing anything physical can fill the hours with unexpected joy.
Participate in Substance Abuse Support Groups
This may seem a little ridiculous for those who haven’t experienced it, but recovery can become its own pastime. There is a powerful bond that forms between people who are in recovery. Sharing in support groups and continuing the message of hope in recovery is a powerful tool for filling one’s time with something worthwhile. People who engage in recovery support groups have a better chance of avoiding relapse triggers or overcoming them when they do come across them.
Foster Mental Activities
Your brain is fresh from the fog of substance abuse. There is no time like the present to really stretch it back into shape. Listening to audiobooks or learning a new language are great ways to spend your time in recovery. You can also pick up a new book and start reading something you are interested in.
The most important thing is to be proactive. You have time now. Use it and the treatment you received to learn the many joys sobriety has to offer. You’re going to be pleasantly surprised at what you’re capable of in this new life. With practice, you’ll find yourself noticing how quickly time flies.
Substance use disorder (SUD) eats away at every aspect of our lives. If you find that you spend all of your time obsessing over drugs or alcohol and when you can use them next, then it is time to take a hard look at yourself. Your life doesn’t have to be wasted on endless hours of intoxication. The Guest Help can help you leave drugs and alcohol behind and give you the tools to live a happier life. Call (855) 483-7800 today.