Recovery is a lifelong process, filled with ups and downs. Life is best lived moment by moment rather than looking back or falling too far forward. One thing that is helpful is focusing on how the present moment holds great opportunities to make small steps towards success. Expect to need continuous support and help to get through, especially the first year. Learn some tips to structure an environment that fosters continued growth in recovery.
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The following tips can be helpful when searching for ways to improve focus, outlook and appreciation of the fact recovery does not come easy. The only person who is responsible for recovery is the individual going through the experience, but some techniques can be helpful to support sobriety.
Simplify
A daily schedule is important to keep things simplified in recovery. An overburdened list can feel stressful with too many duties, projects or to-do lists. The first 90 days of recovery are crucial to staying clean and sober in recovery. Most slips happen during this time but lessen after the first three months. Elimination of nonessential activities can be very beneficial to staying clean and feeling less anxiety about the road ahead. Give the following a try:
- Do what is mandatory today
- Scratch off nonessential activities
- Starting with one or two things is a good start
Just the basics
Getting back into the gym may feel of utmost importance but it should not interfere with staying clean and sober. Part of having the new structure involves taking care of nutritional needs through proper diet and resting. The residual effects of addiction are still wearing off and the body may need time to recuperate. Added stress from exercise or strenuous activity may be too much too soon. Instead, try these tips:
- Stock fridge with clean, wholesome foods (veggies, lean meat, rice, pasta)
- Buy a cookbook and make food at home (saves on budget and is therapeutic)
- Body responds well to clean eating in times of stress (especially early recovery)
Go to meetings
Meetings are very important, particularly in early recovery. One of the keys to not giving up is to find value and necessity in attending group meetings. Not only will the fellowship keep an individual from feeling alone but most addiction specialists believe a quality support network creates confidence for the journey. The burden of recovery does not have to be borne alone, it can be supported by others as well. Try the following to get started:
- Adhere to 90-in-90 rule: go to 90 meetings the first 90 days of recovery
- Make meetings a priority
- Try different groups to keep things fresh
The key to recovery is to stay focused on the present moment. Tomorrow is not here yet but what happens today will impact what happens tomorrow. What determines the outcome is how today is handled in recovery. With the right tools and a network of support, recovery is possible.
The Villa believes in the power of support to help individuals through recovery. If you are struggling with addiction, call us to find out how we can help you recover.