Using Physical Fitness to Overcome Addiction

Are you trying to make some major changes to your life to overcome your alcohol or drug addiction? Physical fitness may help in your recovery and in reclaiming your life. Keep these insights in mind as you assemble your workout routine.

Technology

Technology may help in your recovery in more ways than one. Fitness apps, smartwatches, and similar technology can help you get more out of your bike rides, runs, Pilates classes, kickboxing sessions, and other exercise routines. Even something as simple as a quality pair of headphones or earbuds could increase your serotonin levels as you work out to your favorite music that inspires you to get moving. 

Physical Health

Depending on your current physical condition, you may struggle to maintain a healthy weight. Exercising strengthens your muscles and bones and reduces your chances of experiencing various diseases and health conditions. Further, adopting a regular exercise routine helps your brain make new nerve connections, which are essential for healing the brain from the effects of addiction.

Mental Health

As you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, which help you feel elated. Endorphins are natural chemicals the brain releases, and working out regularly may help with anxiety and depression, two mental health disorders common to addiction. 

On a related note, consider implementing meditation or mindfulness exercises into your workout routine. The EOC Institute notes that meditation helps you notice your thoughts and feelings surrounding addiction and learn how to take healthy ownership of your reactions to those feelings and thoughts.

Cravings

As you get into the habit of engaging your body in regular exercise, you may find you do not have as many cravings, which can help you avoid a relapse. The more you exercise, the more you flood your body with nutrients and oxygen, which boosts your energy levels and may make it easier to resist cravings.

Stress

Do you notice you experience more stress while in recovery? If so, focusing on your physical fitness helps manage, control, and reduce stress and feel at ease. The less emotional and mental upheaval you experience, the less tempted you may feel to return to unhealthy habits.

Sleep

Those who use drugs and alcohol may do so to help with sleep. While in recovery, you could have a hard time falling or staying asleep, which may trigger cravings. Exhausting the body through exercise could help you enjoy better quality and quantity of sleep.

Routine and Structure

One essential aspect of recovery and reducing one's chances of relapsing is creating a healthy routine. Creating a workout schedule of various exercises gives you something to look forward to and establishes a structure that may help you curb cravings.

If a busy schedule prevents you from regular sessions at the gym, you can add a home gym in the garage, basement, or an unused bedroom. Be sure to track any upgrades you make to your home by keeping receipts and taking before-and-after photos. 

Tell other people about exercise classes you sign up for or routines you create. That way, you have people who can help hold you accountable. You may also find it easier to stick to a routine if you exercise at the same time of day, such as when you feel the most productive.

Find a fitness routine that fits your desires and strengths while focusing on recovery. The right blend of exercises and healthy practices helps strengthen mind, body, and spirit. When you’re ready to get started, connect with Kai Boyer Fitness for custom workouts and nutrition plans to achieve your goals!

Written by guest author Kelli Brewer