One of the hardest things about getting sober initially is re-establishing all of our relationships with activities we once loved. Perhaps you had a weekly routine of going to the pub with your friends, or watching football games and drinking beer with your family or going out for a drink after work. Our lives are not only changing because we have stopped consuming substances our bodies and minds have relied on, our whole routine and past-times that once gave us pleasure have to be completely revamped. It can be a scary and lonely time, but you are not alone.
Things to Do This Weekend That Aren’t Drinking
- Make a meal with your loved ones. Cooking can be a fun and healthy way to take care of yourself and others. Perhaps there is a new or elaborate recipe you have wanted to try, either by yourself or with a friend or loved one. If cooking isn’t your thing, perhaps try baking your favorite cookies. Not only is it fun, but it’s also practical! Also, food does bring people together.
- Have a movie night. Have a favorite trilogy that you have been dying to watch? Set up some yummy snacks, put on your favorite sweatpants, and invite your friends over for a movie night. It’s a fun and laid back way to spend time together.
- Go on a hike. Getting out into nature is refreshing, healthy, and a great way to spend time with the people you love. It has been scientifically proven that being outside spikes the happy hormones in our brains and is good for our bodies and mental health. Find your favorite nearby forest, or take a day trip to a longer mountain hike you’ve wanted to try, and enjoy the fresh air and feel-good vibes!
- Raid your favorite bookstore or go to your local library. Bookstores and libraries are some of the most interesting places on earth. You can discover new worlds and expand your horizons with the seemingly endless supply of books on every topic imaginable. Visiting a bookstore or library on your own or with a friend can be like a treasure hunt! Many public libraries also hold interesting programs that appeal to a wide variety of interests.
- Go to a yoga, meditation, or fitness class. Moving the body is always important for our physical and mental health. It also can be enjoyable and a great way to interact with like-minded people.
- Start a new hobby. Have you always wanted to take up photography? Pottery? Badminton? Yoga? Sketching? Writing? Music? The only way to start something we have always wanted to do is to simply… begin. Look up local classes or offerings, and enroll in a course or private lesson. You won’t know until you try!
Getting sober and leading a healthy, happy life can be bewildering at first if we have never lived this way. At Avalon, we know how difficult it may feel at first to start a new way of life without drinking or substance abuse, but we want you to know that you are not alone. Getting sober is just the beginning. There is so much to be experienced on the other side. If you or someone you love is struggling to get or remain sober, call us at (844) 857-5992. We can help you at every stage of your recovery journey.
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