This article contains affiliate links where we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
For what seems like ages, people have been praising exercise for its great effects on physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual health. Whether you’re diving into scientific journals or just scrolling through social media looking at workout trends like CrossFit, one thing stands out—exercise has a ton of benefits.
As your body gets used to living without alcohol or drugs, it undergoes a bunch of changes. These are helpful in the long run, even if they seem tough and painful at first. Let’s explore how exercise plays a role in addiction recovery.
Many people develop drug addictions as a way to cope with mental health issues. That’s why rehab centers focus on treating both the addiction and the underlying mental health conditions. Whether your addiction started because of mental health problems or led to them, exercise can be a powerful ally as you work through recovery.
When someone falls into addiction, the stress that a glass of wine or beer used to relieve becomes a distant memory. To manage stress, many turn to larger amounts of alcohol or drugs, but the relief they once offered disappears over time, often becoming a direct source of stress instead. So, when someone seeks treatment for substance abuse, does all that stress magically vanish? If only it were that simple. Luckily, any activity that gets your heart pumping can help reduce stress.
Sleep issues are pretty common, especially early in the recovery process. Whether you were using a stimulant like cocaine or a depressant like alcohol, quitting can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns. People in recovery might have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or might feel sleepy during the day, leaving them worn out. While some over-the-counter medications may offer short-term help, exercise provides a natural solution. Regular workouts can help improve both how much and how well you sleep, and it can help curb those daytime nap urges.
Exercise uses up energy. So, to gain energy, you need to spend it first. Physical activity gets the heart pumping harder and increases the body’s oxygen levels. Regular exercise boosts oxygen levels and overall energy, making everyday tasks easier as your cardiovascular and physical fitness improves. That’s why many folks start their day with exercise—it sets them up with energy for the rest of the day.
Mood swings are common during detox and even early recovery. One minute you’re on top of the world, the next you might feel down. It’s the body adjusting to a new way of living without substances. Exercise can play a huge part in feeling more balanced. After working out, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel happy. This can mimic the feelings that often led to substance use. Plus, having a snack after a workout can boost your mood.
Long-term alcohol and drug use take a toll on the brain, especially the white matter that connects brain cells. Regular aerobic exercises like running or cycling can protect the brain from this damage. Studies show that those who exercise while withdrawing from alcohol have fewer seizures, and exercise even helps protect the brain from the harms of various drugs, including methamphetamine. Incorporating exercise into recovery not only combats cravings but also supports brain health.
Exercise can also reduce cravings for smoking and lessen drug-seeking behaviors. Combining exercise with cognitive-behavioral therapy can significantly help people break free from addiction. It’s especially effective for smokers because it helps prevent the weight gain associated with quitting, which is a common hurdle.
Regular physical activity helps manage symptoms and overall health since substance abuse disrupts your wellbeing. Aerobic exercises aid in weight loss, heart health, and endurance. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a time-efficient and effective way to exercise, allowing you to switch between high and low intensity. Even brisk walking counts! Strength training increases muscle strength and endurance, making daily tasks simpler and providing stability to joints.
With an abundance of benefits, it’s wise to incorporate exercise into your daily routine during recovery. Once it becomes a habit, you’ll see how it smooths out your recovery journey. For more information, feel free to reach out in the comments!
