There are several reasons people may resist going to treatment, including the fear that life will be dull and boring without drugs and alcohol. Fun is a cornerstone of happiness and having fun in recovery is essential to long-term success. Though it might not come naturally to you at first, eventually, you’ll begin finding pleasure and joy in many places during your recovery.
Here are a few activities you can do to have fun while recovering from drugs or alcohol.
Do service work.
Being of service to others is a sure-fire way to improve your self-esteem and overall well-being. Within the world of recovery, there are many ways to be of assistance:
- Be available to talk with other people in recovery. Pass on your number to the newcomer who is struggling and needs a listening ear.
- Help out at meetings. Set up chairs at the beginning and help clean up after.
- Participate in after-meeting fellowship.
You can also be of service to your family, friends, and neighbors. Offer to share a meal or run some errands. Friendship, companionship, and relationships are all effective antidotes for addiction. Anything – no matter how small — you can do to help another is an act of service.
Get new hobbies.
If you are unsure how to have fun in recovery, consider how you enjoyed having fun before using drugs or alcohol. Those activities may be worth a revisit.
Finding new hobbies is a sure way to have fun in recovery. What are some things you have always wanted to try? New experiences stimulate the brain, whether we are learning to paint or taking a hike in the wilderness. Even if you aren’t that good at it, challenge yourself!
Start something creative.
Draw a picture of a pet or friend. Take up painting, designing stained glass, or sculpting. Creating something can be tremendously therapeutic, which is why art and music therapy are so popular. Not everything will be a masterpiece, but it will be fun.
While you are trying new things, don’t focus on the results. Just enjoy the journey.
Find your people.
In active addiction, people tend to isolate themselves. Connections with others will help to keep you on the path to recovery. Seek out people who share the same interests as you.
The easiest way to find your tribe is at a recovery-oriented meeting. Find people who can relate to you and share the same experiences. What are some of their hobbies? You may enjoy participating in something unexpected alongside your new friends.
Get some exercise.
We neglect our bodies when we are actively addicted. Your body needs to be treated well by you to make up for all your time abusing it. The practice of yoga helps to calm the mind. Running has a beneficial impact on the heart. Even a walk can get you moving and help clear your head.
During this period of making amends to your body, consider eating a healthier diet too. A balanced diet can help you gain energy and improve your overall well-being.
As you see, having fun in recovery is essential. Stay open-minded and maintain a positive attitude. Give your new activities a chance and allow yourself to enjoy them.
Call today!
We are ready to help your family begin its journey to recovery. Please call anytime at 866-856-0801 .
Contact us for more information about how Windhaven House can help you achieve and maintain lasting sobriety. Call 866-856-0801 or send us a message now.
