Maintaining Sobriety Through Exercise

A daily exercise routine can be an invaluable asset in maintaining your sobriety. Physical activity can often provide a similar sense of well-being as experience when using alcohol. In addition to the psychological benefits, regular physical activity work to rebuild health following the damaging effects of addiction and withdrawal. For addicts and alcoholics alike, a specified exercise regimen can make physical activity part of a sober, healthy lifestyle rather than a new addiction.

Instructions

1 – Speak with your physician regarding your exercise intentions. This is standard advice, but is more important to those who have recently quit drinking. Malnourishment is common among newly sober people, even if you are overweight. Kidney, liver, heart or stomach issues are common as well. Alcoholism can be extremely draining to your body and health. As such, it’s important to obtain the “A-OK” from your physician prior to pursuing a new exercise plan.

2 – Do not attempt to concur the world over night. Start out by setting some short-term goals and documenting your progress in a dedicated health journal or notebook. Begin with a short walk around the block; then a jog; then two blocks; etc.

3 – Exercise even when you don’t feel up to it. This is when your body requires physical activity the most. The endorphin's produced by your body during these activities will promote a heightened sense of well-being. Routine physical activity will also work to re-establish a healthy sleep schedule. All of these aspects contribute to continued sobriety and mental stability.

4 – Don’t jump ahead. Stick to your exercise plan as it is outlined. Add to your workouts only in increments determined ahead of time. These tactics are crucial to maintaining a healthy exercise routine while avoiding obsessive tendencies.

Need Help?

If you or someone you love are suffering from an alcohol addiction, our Los Angeles drug rehab is the place to call. Pick up the phone today, and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy and fulfilling lifestyle you deserve. 

Success Tips For Alcohol Rehab

Though thousands of people attend alcohol drug detox and rehabilitation programs each year, only a small number are actually able to maintain their sobriety long-term. While rehab is certainly a momentous step forward in combating drug and alcohol addiction addicts must utilize the skills, knowledge and habits attained within rehab to realize the true benefits of sobriety.

Instructions

1     Participate in activities that heighten your self-esteem. While it can easy to simply kill time through movies and video games, these activities will do little to build a sense of self-worth. By making a commitment to a group, sport or volunteer work, recovering addicts are able to develop their self-esteem while promoting positive and healthy social interaction.

2     Let your creativity shine through art. Whether painting, photography or music, art can provide an outlet and even income to those willing to make the commitment. Art can also serve as a stress relief and boredom killer... boredom being one of the more common relapse triggers.

3     Find new friends. If you return to your old drinking buddies, chances are you’ll be back at the bar in no time. Avoid placing yourself in situations that may compromise your sobriety. A real friend will understand your commitment and support your decision. Remember… it often only takes one drink to trigger a full-blown relapse. Don’t kid yourself.

4     Read! Turn off the television and finish that book you’ve been eyeing. Reading regularly will keep your mind active and strengthen your thinking. It may take some time to make the transition, but with a little self-discipline, you’ll be an avid page-turner in no time. 

5     Think positive. Surround yourself with positive people, activities and goals. It can be easy to dwell on the negative side of recovery… especially during the initial stages. By making a point to focus your attention on the bright side, you’ll find yourself happier, fulfilled and better able to deal with the ups and downs of daily life.

6     Keep in touch with your California alcohol rehab addiction counselors following rehab. Having solid support is vital during the initial recovery process. When doubts and issues arise, you can always contact your counselors for a swift kick in the right direction.