Healthier Habits Start with You
When it comes to recovery from addiction, creating healthy new routines and habits will be an important step towards sobriety and long-term health maintenance. Not only can introducing positive changes into one's life help with preventing relapse, but the act of maintaining these new routines provides a powerful sense of accomplishment and control.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and recovery, our team can help with getting back into healthy routines. Give us a call at (800) 353-4673 to learn more.
Getting Back into Your Groove
It can sometimes be difficult to know where to begin when re-defining your daily routine. Substances play such a large role in the daily processes of those addicted that developing new habits can be a battle all on its own.
Developing a plan for each day that includes self-care activities such as exercise, healthy meals, and support can provide structure and reduce addiction cravings. Making time for restorative activities like art, hobbies, or outdoor activities can also help improve the quality of your recovery process.
Below are a few tips for establishing healthy new routines that you can start to incorporate into your day-to-day life as a way to begin creating healthier habits:
- Choose activities that provide a sense of structure. This could include tasks such as going on daily walks or joining a weekly exercise class.
- Make time for relaxation and mindfulness to counter stress levels. Taking scheduled breaks throughout the day to practice slow breathing helps to calm the body and mind.
- Set small, achievable goals each day and reward yourself when you've accomplished them. This gives you something concrete to strive towards and encourages further success in your recovery journey.
- Surround yourself with encouraging friends, family members, and mentors who understand your individual needs and challenges. They can offer valuable advice and support while being understanding of any setbacks you may face along the way.
Ultimately, creating positive habits during recovery will help lead to a successful journey toward lasting sobriety. These activities paired with patience, dedication, self-compassion, and perseverance will create firm foundations for lasting results as you recover and heal from your addiction. It’s no secret that replacing bad habits with healthier ones can be challenging, but it is certainly possible. Start by recognizing your triggers and making a plan to react differently in those situations when they arise in the future.
It is also important to hold yourself accountable and identify supportive people who can support you on your journey. Change doesn't happen overnight, so don't give up if there are roadblocks on your road to recovery. Instead, focus on celebrating small victories and staying motivated to take control of your long-term health.
Routines and Recovery – How They Go Hand-in-Hand
For individuals struggling with addiction, setting up structured routines can help bring order to their lives. Establishing good habits can reduce the amount of energy spent on making decisions while providing a sense of security and satisfaction.
Designing a dependable plan to tackle everyday tasks can minimize stress by focusing on one task at a time, without having to worry about what to do next. Routines can also limit exposure to triggers and distractions that can lead to relapse. Accomplishing goals like waking up early and exercising can also boost self-esteem, reinforcing confidence in one's ability to make positive changes in life. Finding activities that give purpose and joy (such as volunteering or engaging in a creative project) can also help combat cravings.
It is important to note that restructuring routines can also involve setting up boundaries, learning how to express feelings better, and identifying unproductive patterns of thought. Essentially, establishing healthy routines is all about maintaining motivation to keep yourself on the right path towards long-term recovery.
Choosing Mount Sinai for Recovery
At Mount Sinai Wellness Center, we’re here to help you climb the mountain. That’s why a typical day at our inpatient rehabilitation center involves structured routine filled with activities designed to help individuals heal from addiction and gain life skills.
This may include individual and group therapy sessions, as well as educational lectures about addiction and its effects. During free time, patients are encouraged to participate in fitness classes, art projects, socializing with their peers, and more. Mealtimes provide an opportunity for building community by sharing meals together in a safe, supportive environment. There are also periods of relaxation throughout the day where patients can enjoy some leisure time in a therapeutic setting.
If you or a loved one has need of inpatient care, we can help with getting back on the right track. Contact us today at (800) 353-4673 to take the first steps.
