Many Americans have begun exercising because they’re starting to realize the benefits that exercise can have on a person’s daily life and longevity. Exercise isn’t just for the typical athletic, high energy, health fanatic – in fact, practically anyone can exercise. The key is finding what kind of physical activity works best for you. Those who want to take proactive and preventative measures to health will find that exercise helps maintain this ongoing goal. Individuals in addiction recovery may find physical fitness especially helpful, utilizing consistent exercise routines to help them become stronger mentally, physically and spiritually.
Exercise and Recovery
Studies have found exercise to have quite a positive impact on recovery from drug and/or alcohol abuse. Data suggests that exercise can increase rates of abstinence from substance abuse in the long-term, helping people stick to their sobriety goals. Additionally, exercise supports mental health and well-being. Many individuals in recovery suffer from mental and emotional barriers, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, making their recovery journeys particularly difficult. Learning to deal with these issues while also trying to recover from addiction can feel overwhelming. In these cases, exercise can be a positive coping strategy to manage these kinds of stressors in a healthy way. Engaging in physical activities can help release pent up stress and build the strength needed to keep moving forward.
Learning to Cope
Stress, anxiety, and depression are three of the most common symptoms of withdrawal. When the stress hormone, cortisol, is released during a workout, those in recovery are more likely to work themselves into a better mood than people who don’t engage in physical activities. Additionally, exercise supports a balanced lifestyle. Individuals who engage in physical activity consistently tend to shift towards healthier habits all around. Often, the obsession to revert back to drinking and/or using, as well as the preoccupation with the lifestyle associated with an active addiction is eliminated all-together as a result. While exercise alone can’t be used as a treatment option for addiction recovery, when it is combined with other effective modes of treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), massage therapy, art therapy and more, you may find that you’re much more capable of pursuing your sobriety goals.
Looking for Help?
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 844-857-5992 for a consultation. There are people here ready to help you – it’s never too late to begin taking steps towards a happier, healthier life.
