Benefits of Exercise In Addiction Recovery
Exercise at any stage in our recovery is conducive to retaining sobriety by introducing healthy endorphins into the body and that is why tenants of Crow’s Nest Ranch Sober Living here in Truckee, California will offer tenants an assortment of physical activities to participate in.
When we use drugs and alcohol in excess, our human physiology is greatly impacted. Addiction changes our body chemistry and once substances are removed, we very regularly become overstimulated by some of life’s major stressors.
This is why good physical activity can help shift the tide on those negative emotions and create positive results. Whether you are new in recovery or have been sober for many years, there are several proven benefits to getting regular exercise for us all!
1. Stress Reduction & Management
Stress is a legitimate problem in our recovery process and can lead to relapse if not properly regulated. One of the ways to reduce and control our stress is through exercise. Physical activity releases feel-good endorphins in the brain and improves circulation throughout the body, both of which help with stress management.
2. Improves Sleep
According to SMART Recovery, “As the body and mind continue to return to a more normal state, many people in recovery find exercise also helps restore a normal sleep schedule.”
We all know that re-learning to sleep while in recovery is a process. In fact, many people begin using alcohol or drugs thinking these substances would help them get better rest at night. We will attack this subject more in-depth later, but regular exercise can improve both your quality and quantity of sleep in a much deeper level.
3. Great Mood Boost
Managing our mood changes without the use of our drug of choice is difficult. When we exercise we train our body to adjust to its new circumstances by teaching it to naturally produce those feel-good chemicals. Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, providing feelings of happiness and well-being. According to the Mayo Clinic, just 30 minutes of exercise per day is enough to positively change your mood.
4. Increases Energy
We will use plenty of energy when we exercise, but we will also receive energy in exchange for our efforts. Where recovery can leave us feeling tired and lethargic at times, regular exercise is one of the ways that we can put some spring back in our steps.
5. Strengthens Immune System
The Office of Disease Prevention and Health reports that getting regular exercise also helps protect our bodies from certain serious conditions such as cancer, stroke, heart disease, depression, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
6. Prevents Relapse
This is the greatest incentive to exercise regularly. in addiction recovery is that regular movement can help prevent a return to alcohol or drug use. A collection of studies suggest that regular exercise can increase the abstinence rate for substance use by 95 percent. These studies also found that exercise can help manage stress, depression, and anxiety, which can all contribute to substance use.
NEW MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
Starting on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, we have organized a bodywork meeting that is free and open to those in recovery with a desire to be sober and part of an all-inclusive, judgment-free community!
Meeting Information
Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:00 am to 8:00 am
Charles Gracie Jiu Jitsu
10975 Pioneer Trail #2,
Truckee, CA 96161
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