7-Healthy Daily Habits That Can Help You Stay Sober   

Being in recovery can be overwhelming. But recovery can also be a great opportunity to revamp your life and create some healthy habits that will help you stay sober. They’ll also help you live a healthier life, now and in the future. Consider adding these healthy practices to your daily routine to live your best life yet.

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Creating Some Goals to Work Towards   

If you haven’t created goals for yourself yet, sit down and start to come up with a few. Setting realistic goals is a great way to motivate yourself and create excitement over the future. You can start with some small goals such as meditating every day or waking up earlier, and then make some major goals including committing to actively contributing to your recovery. Write your goals out in a journal and then make a list of the ways you can work to achieve them. 

Committing to Regular Exercise 

Per Mayo Clinic, exercise can help you stay strong, sober and healthy in so many different ways. Making time for regular exercise will strengthen your immune system and help you maintain a healthy weight. Exercise can be beneficial for your brain as well, providing you with endorphins to fend off stress and boosting your energy to get you through those tough days. Both of which are important for recovery. It’s ideal for you to plan a workout into your daily routine, whether it’s a walk, a gym session or even a swim. If you need some added motivation, pick up a smartwatch and some new workout gear like sneakers, comfortable leggings, or a flattering T-shirt.

Getting Outside During the Day 

If you’re spending significant time inside, you could be missing out on some serious benefits of being outside. Going outside, even if it’s only for a few minutes, can help your body synthesize vitamins needed to keep you feeling happy and energized. Outdoor activities, like going for a hike with your dog or tending to your garden, can also reduce your stress levels. Since stress can be a major trigger for former addicts, managing it will help you maintain your sobriety and improve your health. 
Picking Up Some New Hobbies  

Boredom and stress can be some serious triggers for those recovering from addiction. Hobbies are a fantastic way to keep yourself busy, while minimizing the effects of stress on your health and recovery. Getting into photography, painting or even birdwatching can relieve feelings of anxiety and give you a sense of accomplishment. These hobbies can also be a good way to connect with new friends, who share your passion for healthy activities. 

Helping Out in Your Community   

If you’re looking for a way to have fun and feel better about yourself, then volunteering could be a perfect new habit for you. Helping to improve your community is a good way to boost your self-esteem, while making a real difference in the world around you. You can help out in your local community garden or volunteer to give shelter dogs a bath. Don’t have a lot of time on your hands? Then think about donating to your favorite causes instead. 

Cleaning Up Your Diet   

Creating a clean, healthy eating plan is a good way to maintain your overall health. Good nutrition is essential to sobriety, especially during the early stages of recovery. You can create your balanced eating plan by setting up a healthy eating routine, eliminating sugary foods and finding foods that nourish your body with vitamins and minerals. While you’re in recovery, it may also be helpful to limit or cut out caffeine and opt for foods that are easy on your stomach. 

Forgiving Yourself for Mistakes 

Recovering from addiction typically involves some soul searching. Often, you may be forced to face your past mistakes. Chances are, you’ll make mistakes again. Learning how to move past mistakes can vastly improve your life and help you stick to your sober goals. Make it a habit to acknowledge your mistakes, learn from your missteps and truly forgive yourself. 

Working through recovery takes a lot of work on improving yourself.  Take the chance to work on your daily habits, create healthy routines and ensure your health, happiness and success in all that you do. 

*** Written for Meridian Counseling by Adam Cook.