Self-care is an important aspect of recovery and exercise fits the criteria of self-care. Exercise is one of those activities that is healthy for the mind, the body, and the soul. Better yet, exercise produces endorphins that gives someone a natural high. For someone who is trying to stay sober that can be inviting for them to want to exercise for the extra bonus, in moderation of course. Overall, exercise will not keep a person sober, but it can certainly enhance your recovery so much more.

Drugs and alcohol can badly mangle the body and exercise has been proven to assist the body with healing from years of excessive use. Medical research shows that exercise improves cardiovascular health, stimulates the immune system, and can increase brain functionality through new nerve connections which is where endorphins also play a big part. The risks of diabetes and cancer can also be lowered with a regular exercise regimen.  

Sleep is one other factor that exercise can help to regulate. Drugs and alcohol are known to cause insomnia and oversleeping by changing someone’s internal body clock. As the mind, the body, and the soul become better adjusted through the help of exercise, normal sleeping patterns will likely follow. Exercise is instrumental in shifting a person’s circadian rhythm to get back on a regular sleep schedule.

There are so many benefits to exercising regardless if a person is recovering from drugs and alcohol or not. Many of these benefits are thought to be in the physical sense, but mental and spiritual gains will occur as well. Positive feelings come from accomplishing exercise especially considering all the health benefits that come with it. Exercise initiates discipline and structure which are two things that can help to build self-esteem.

People often are turned off by exercise because they automatically think of strenuous working out. Exercise can take form in everyday activities such as walking the dog, jumping on a trampoline with kids, or dancing. Discovering an enjoyable activity that will keep a person intrigued is the key in getting the desire to exercise. The other factor that keeps someone from working out is finding the time. Pushing off exercise for more “important activities” occurs with those who do not designate the time they need to stay healthy.

Just know that an individual does not need to be in shape to exercise. Everyone has to start somewhere and just taking the initiative to do something with exercise is a great start.

The Kimberly Center is an evidence-based treatment facility that helps someone who is suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. Successful recovery encompasses improvements in self-esteem, vocational productivity, and interpersonal relationships which is what is our goal is with your unique treatment program.

Call us today to begin: 855-4-KCENTER (855-452-3683)