Running & Recovery
Crow’s Nest Ranch is more than just a house for continued care after your time as an inpatient or where you can come to learn new ways to cope with life without your addiction. The Ranch will offer its residents a plethora of exercise activities that can take place just steps away from happening in one of the world’s most renowned outdoor playgrounds, the Tahoe National Forest.
The endless trails range from beginner to ultra in difficulty to assist any runner with a comfortable challenge. Running, outside of being a highly rewarding exercise that strengthens the heart and respiratory system, brings unique physical and mental benefits to those struggling with excessive stress—and with drug addiction.
The Positive Effects Running Can Have on Addiction Recovery
Running, even in a short period of time, offer a collection of physical benefits like increased stamina, weight loss, and a stronger heart and lungs. However, there are many mental benefits as well that tend to go unmentioned and are vital to assisting an addict in replacing those drug and alcohol highs with natural endorphins:
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.
Lower relapse rates in addiction recovery.
There’s even some evidence that running helps mitigate drug-inflicted brain damage.
Lastly, the goal here is to go at one’s own healthy and safe pace. We have seen many people jump right into overexerting their bodies which causes more damage than it does recovery. The goal here is not to envision yourself running away from your addiction, but as running toward a better future!
Enjoy this TedX speech from Scott Strode about finding sobriety on a Mountain Top