Directory Image
This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Benefits Of Exercise In Early Recovery

Author: Kevin Repass
by Kevin Repass
Posted: Feb 15, 2019

Physical activity can be extremely beneficial to people in early sobriety. Exercise can boost both mental and emotional health. It is also a great hobby to occupy time. It can keep your mind off of drugs and alcohol. It can help relieve stress and release tension. Exercise can come in several different forms. The beauty of exercise is the various options available that fit your needs and lifestyle. You can join a regular gym, work out at home, start a jogging/running routine, take up yoga or my personal favorite- martial arts.

I am a firm believer in keeping yourself busy and occupied especially in early sobriety. Exercise is a great activity to take up in your free time and keep yourself occupied. Exercise can be beneficial in improving your overall mental health and boosting self-confidence. Exercise can help with mindfulness and staying focused in the present moment. Your mind generally does not wander while exercising. It can also curb any cravings for alcohol or drugs away. I highly recommend exercise any time you feel triggered or have a craving.

I recommend yoga for mental, spiritual and emotional health. Yoga is geared more for relaxation, focus and mindfulness. Yoga is great when feeling anxious, stressed or depressed. It is also good to increase flexibility, balance and dexterity. Running and jogging are great for focusing and improving cardiovascular health. Running and jogging can also shape and tone the lower body. Lifting weights is good for improving strength, toning and building muscle. I prefer martial arts because it is very well-rounded. It is great for all facets- physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health. Martial arts can build muscle, improve cardio, flexibility and balance. It also teaches discipline and focus. Learning self-defense and belt advancement is a great confidence booster.

Exercise can obviously be beneficial to your physical health. Exercise can boost and improve your immune system. It is also great for detoxing the mind and body which is part of the recovery process. From a mental perspective, pushing yourself can feel great and rewarding. Seeing and feeling the results is even better. The more you do it, the easier it gets. For people in early recovery, it can be difficult to be motivated to exercise in the beginning. It does get easier once you begin. It becomes very rewarding once you get a routine going. Just try to stick with it. While it is not required, I do recommend finding a friend to exercise with. It can help in keeping each other motivated and on track. If you are lifting weights, it is always good to have a friend as a spotter for safety reasons. I highly recommend getting some form of exercise even if it is only a few times a week. I recommend at least one hour, three times a week at the bare minimum but anything is better than nothing. Just be sure not to overexert yourself. Take into consideration that a well-balanced diet can also be important to improve and maximize the effectiveness of the exercise of your choosing.

About the Author

Kevin Repass is a recovering drug addict and alcoholic. He is a writer for a south Florida-based company dedicated to providing resources and information to all those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.

Rate this Article
Leave a Comment
Author Thumbnail
I Agree:
Comment 
Pictures
Author: Kevin Repass

Kevin Repass

Member since: Feb 12, 2019
Published articles: 2

Related Articles