Workout in Addiction Recovery
Substance abuse causes damage to both the physical and mental health of the addict. For the best recovery results when in the process of de-addiction, it is crucial to pay attention to both of these components of your well-being . Addiction treatment comes in many forms. Frequently it includes IV drips, rehabs, de-addiction medications, etc. However, it could actually be done in more natural way. And one of the best ways to assist an addict with recovery and create a specific healthy interconnection of mind and body is by engaging yourself in an exercise routine.
Generally speaking, regular exercising has plenty of benefits for your health, but let’s take a look at three most important ones for a more successful recovery:
1. Fitness aims ---> bring positivity to life
Motivation to keep up with recovery from substance abuse can be enormously boosted by setting specific workout goals. Also, since fitness achievements can be tracked or measured, that can help an addict to focus on tracking his recovery progress at the same time, as, for example, the growing amount of sobriety days can be an enormous stir to hold on to recovery. Concentrating your energy on these two goals at the same time will bring positivity and a feeling of accomplishment in to the life of an addict, as well as the desire to set new goals in any other aspects of life.
2. Lower stress level ---> happier mood
When in recovery, especially in the early stages, staying sober requires using healthy alternatives to cope with withdrawal symptoms, stress and anxiety. Any kind of workout, especially the ones you enjoy or are eager to try out, will help to restore and release endorphins, which are responsible for providing your body with a natural feeling of joy. Exercise can, in a very short period of time, improve your mood, lessen anxiety and be a new coping skill for stress and other relapse triggers.
3. Physical strength ---> emotional stability
Sound mind - sound body: a very short proverb with a very deep meaning. While working out is mostly associated with weight loss and specifically physical health benefits, it can also improve your self-efficacy. “Each new achievement will take you from an “I can’t do this” mentality to an “I can do this” and “I did it!” attitude. Once you see your efforts paying off in your stamina and physique, you’ll see the positivity flow into your daily life and relationships as well.” (Recovery Centers of America)
Let’s take a look at what kind of workouts are frequently recommended to assist the addict in recovery:
1.“Yoga is increasingly being used in substance abuse treatment programs and throughout recovery to help prevent relapse, reduce withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings, and provide a healthy outlet to cope with potential triggers and daily life stressors” (American Addiction Centers)
2. Candice Rasa (Competitor Running) states that: “many physical benefits of running are obtainable in a short period of time, such as increased stamina, weight loss and stronger heart and lungs. However, the first improvements noticed are typically mental. These include:
A strong sense of increased positive feelings. Known as a “runner’s high” vigorous exercise increases the brain’s endorphin and dopamine levels, which makes you feel better.
Reduced everyday depression. (In cases of addiction, depression is typically a factor and often an actual accompanying illness.)
Reduced cravings for unhealthy foods and drugs.
Increased sense of being in control, which reduces the chronic sense of helplessness and frustration common to most addicts.
Clearer thinking.
Higher self-esteem, confidence and sense of achievement.
Greater hope for the future.
Increased learning ability.
Lower relapse rates in addiction recovery.”
3. (Best Drug Rehabilitation about Martial arts)
“The physical benefits associated with martial arts include:
Reduced stress
Increased muscle strength
Improved flexibility
Better balance
Improved hand-eye coordination
The advantages for the physical body are numerous. Since all forms of martial arts are a type of exercise, the benefits on a physical level are not surprising. The body will increase in strength and ultimately feel healthier with practice in the physical activity.”
