When people use drugs and alcohol excessively, their bodies become more susceptible to changes in heart rate and coordination problems. Addiction alters body chemistry, making the brain less effective at responding to harmful triggers in the environment. This can affect their thinking and decision-making, especially when it comes to protecting themselves.
Regular exercise and physical activity can help people manage their weight and avoid obesity. Muscle-strengthening activities can increase muscle strength and mass, improve mood, and reduce the risk of depression. This article outlines three benefits of staying active to support your recovery journey.
First, engaging in regular physical activity causes the body to release endorphins. These chemicals interact with brain receptors to reduce pain perception, which can help lower dependence on substances. This leads to feelings of optimism and euphoria after working out, improving one’s outlook on life.
People who exercise regularly often feel more confident and less depressed. Achieving workout goals and seeing positive changes in their bodies can create a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the goal of staying sober. They also gain more energy and an improved sense of well-being, making life more manageable without resorting to addictive behaviors.
Regular exercise increases the number of abstinent days, especially when combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy. It serves as an effective way to meet physiological and psychological needs, reducing the desire to use substances. You might want to research countries where medication-assisted therapy is successful to explore other effective methods.
Sleep is crucial during addiction recovery because it allows people to function at their best. However, withdrawal often brings sleep issues like nightmares and insomnia. Proper rest is vital for recovery, but those in the early stages often struggle to get enough sleep, increasing the risk of relapse.
Because addiction and sleep are closely linked, it’s important to prioritize rest during recovery. Regular exercise can help overcome sleep issues by stimulating recuperative processes that restore health and strength. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity weekly to improve sleep quality.
Consider including a morning run in your routine to develop self-discipline and meet new people in your community. If running isn’t appealing, practicing yoga can enhance self-awareness and mindfulness. Any physical activity can adjust your body’s temperature, making it easier to fall asleep once you’re in bed.
People with addiction often face additional health problems like heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions. For example, tobacco smoke can lead to different cancers, and opioids can result in overdose and death. Pregnant women using substances may cause their babies to experience withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and sleep problems.
Regular exercise can help protect recovering individuals from these health issues. Physical activities can clear bacteria from the airways and lungs, reducing the risk of flu or colds. Something as simple as a 30-minute walk in the park can significantly boost the immune system.
If you don’t enjoy intense workouts, find other ways to stay active throughout the day. You could lift weights while watching TV, use a standing desk to move your legs while working, or take the stairs at work. These small activities can gradually improve your activity level and overall health.
To support your recovery from addiction, explore different ways to be physically active. By doing so, you’ll experience the benefits of staying active, which include better sleep, a positive outlook on life, and a stronger immune system. This can help you reconnect with family and friends as you work towards a healthier, sober future.