When someone overuses drugs and alcohol, their body becomes prone to issues like changes in heart rate and coordination problems. Addiction alters body chemistry, making the brain less responsive to harmful environmental triggers. This can lead to poor decision-making in dangerous situations.
Staying active through regular exercise helps manage weight and prevent obesity. Muscle-strengthening activities can also boost muscle strength and mass, improve mood, and reduce the risk of depression.
This article highlights three benefits of staying active during recovery.
When you engage in physical activity regularly, your body releases endorphins. These chemicals reduce pain perception and decrease dependence on substances. After each workout, you may feel optimistic and euphoric, which can positively affect your outlook on life.
People who exercise often experience increased confidence and a reduction in depression. Achieving workout goals and seeing physical transformations can provide a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing sobriety. Additionally, regular exercise boosts energy and well-being, making life more manageable without addictive behaviors.
Exercise can also increase the number of abstinent days, especially when combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy. As a way to meet physiological and psychological needs, exercise helps individuals avoid substance use. You might want to research countries where medication-assisted therapy is successful to find other helpful methods.
Sleep is crucial in addiction recovery because rest allows people to function at their best. However, withdrawal can cause sleep issues like nightmares and insomnia. Proper sleep is essential, especially early in recovery, to avoid relapses.
Since addiction and sleep are closely linked, prioritize getting enough rest during recovery. Regular exercise can help overcome sleeplessness by stimulating recovery processes. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense activity weekly to improve sleep quality. Consider morning runs for self-discipline and community interaction, or practice yoga for mindfulness and self-awareness. Physical activities can also help regulate body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep.
People with addiction often face other health problems like heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health issues. Tobacco smoke can cause cancer, opioids can lead to overdose and death, and pregnant women using substances can cause withdrawal symptoms in their babies.
Regular exercise can protect against these health issues during addiction recovery. Physical activities help eliminate bacteria from the airways and lungs, reducing the risk of flu or cold. Even a simple 30-minute walk in the park can boost the immune system.
If you prefer less intense workouts, find other ways to stay active. Lift weights while watching TV, use a standing desk to move your legs at work, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. These small activities can positively impact your overall health.
As you work on recovery, explore different physical activities. You’ll start seeing the benefits of staying active, such as better sleep, a positive outlook on life, and a stronger immune system. This, in turn, can help you reconnect with family and friends as you continue your journey to sobriety.
