While supervised treatment is the safest, most effective detox method, it is also important for people at all steps of recovery to practice good lifestyle choices. Keeping one’s whole state of health is mind when in recovery can be a powerful addition to any programme.
1.) Cut Out Caffeine & Nicotine
The caffeine in coffee and energy drinks can be a tempting pick-me-up some someone getting over addiction. But many people are not aware that caffeine is in fact a drug. Both nicotine and caffeine can impact the neurotransmitters in the brain in a manner similar to drugs and alcohol. Consuming too much of these substances can affect the reward pathways in the brain, and can even perpetuate compulsive behavior.
2.) Meditation
Meditation is a key component to the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Meditation can be a huge tool in any healing process, and this can include getting through addiction recovery. Vedic meditation and mindfulness are common forms taught to recovering users. Gaining balance and power over one’s life is vital for remaining sober.
3.) Put Together A Good Diet & Exercise Routine
Good diet and exercise is necessary for a healthy mind and body. Wholesome foods and good nutrition can help stave off cravings for unhealthy behaviors. Bad decision making can occur when one is hungry or very tired. Consuming too much sugar can also be harmful for someone in recovery. Like caffeine and nicotine, sugar reacts with the pleasure receptors in the brain and can lead to addiction. Nutritional meals and regular exercise can battle depression and help energy levels rise.
4.) Make Sure You Have A Solid Sleep Schedule
Most people need 7 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Not getting enough sleep can cause a person to feel fatigued and this could lead to depressive decision making. Sleeplessness is a powerful stressor and any stressors can place a person in recovery at risk.
