Drug and alcohol addiction recovery is about more than just stopping substance use; it is about healing the mind and body as well to promote healthier routines and reduce risk of relapse. Substance use can take a toll on health – both physically and mentally – and individuals in recovery must develop healthy ways of rebuilding strength without compromising healing.
Individuals can focus on different ways to boost health such as trying yoga for National Yoga Month and also eating a more well-balanced diet since September is also Fruits and Veggies – More Matters Month. There are many ways to build a comprehensive plan to revitalize well-being in drug and alcohol recovery.
Healthy Diet for Healthy Recovery
Drugs and alcohol – as well as eating disorders – can impact how the body processes nutrition. It is not uncommon for individuals to have vitamin deficiencies, poor diet, or gastrointestinal issues following addiction. Making better food choices is a major step toward improving health in drug and alcohol recovery.
This means working with a nutritionist to address any deficiencies and create a meal plan that works for your individual needs. Opting for more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and healthy fats can go a long way in providing the body the fuel it needs to heal. Those with eating disorders can develop a healthier relationship with food to support their nutritional needs.
Breathe In and Stretch
Yoga is a wonderful way to strengthen the mind-body connection and reduce stress through gentle, fluid movements and concentrated focus. It can be a valuable component of anxiety treatment because it helps you to clear your mind and relax while also stretching your body. You can start off with simple moves as muscles recover and then challenge yourself with more advanced poses. Making yoga a daily part of your routine in substance use treatment can help to reduce risk of relapse and naturally boost mood.
Chase the Stress Away
Managing stress is an integral part of drug and alcohol addiction recovery because it is a major trigger for relapse. Yoga and exercise are a great place to start, but there are a variety of other options you may find beneficial too. These may include things such as:
- Meditation
- Listening to music
- Journaling
- Relaxing in a hot bath
- Painting
- Talking things out with a friend
Find healthy options that leave you feeling calmer and less tense while avoiding those activities that you know are triggers.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise
There is a lot to be said for the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Addiction can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle, and many people struggle with insomnia or interrupted sleep. Try to establish regular sleep and wake routines, even on weekends and while on vacation. Keep your body active during the day so you’ll feel more tired at night and can give your body quality time to rest and recover. Sleeping in a cool, dark room – and limiting screen time before bed – can allow your body to naturally drift off more easily.
Healthy Mind, Healthy Body
The benefits of balanced physical and mental health in all medical situations, including substance use treatment, are essential for recovery. That means finding a Northeast addictions treatment center that focuses not just on physical health, but mental health too through comprehensive programs. A healthy and strong mind can help you to stay motivated in recovery and provide your whole body what it needs to heal and overcome addiction.
Building positive mental health can include strategies such as:
- Keeping a gratitude journal
- Setting personal goals
- Celebrating achievements and milestones
- Creating a support network that makes you feel good about yourself and respects your new lifestyle of recovery
- Cutting ties with individuals who are a negative influence
A strong mind-body connection plays an integral role in supporting a full recovery from addiction, so engaging in activities like yoga and maintaining a healthy diet are key components. Look for addiction treatment programs like Crossroads that offer comprehensive, personalized care that meets your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health needs. Make your well-being a priority by seeking help at Crossroads, a Northeast addictions treatment center, today.
