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If you are new to recovery, summer may feel unsettling and uncomfortable without alcohol and/or other drugs, especially if you used these substances to relax during active addiction. If this is the case, you are not alone. Many feel that the first step to relaxation is to pour themselves a drink, roll a joint, or take a pill.
In today's fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become a part of our everyday lives. Many people turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with their stress, which can lead to addiction and other health problems. However, it is possible to relax without relapsing. In this article, we will explore some ways to achieve relaxation without the use of drugs or alcohol.
What is Relaxation?
Relaxation is the process of releasing tension from our body and mind. It is a state of calmness that helps us to recharge and refresh our energy. Relaxation can be achieved through various activities such as meditation, yoga, listening to music, reading a book, taking a walk, or spending time with loved ones.
Why is Relaxation Important?
Relaxation is essential for our mental and physical well-being. It helps to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are the leading causes of many health problems. Relaxation also enhances our immune system, improves our sleep, and increases our overall sense of happiness and well-being.
The fact is, however, that drinking and drug use do not do much to help you relax and can actually increase stress levels and tension due to lowered immune system, poor choices while under the influence, and accidents while intoxicated.
The good news is that relaxation is actually easier and longer lasting when you skip alcohol and drugs, and focus on wellness. Here are just a few ways you can truly relax this summer, with no substances at all:
Head outside
There are countless things you can have more fun doing in the summer weather, and it is better if you are not under the influence, at the very least, for safety’s sake. Go kayaking, standup paddle boarding, surfing, or rock climbing – or learn how to do any of those things. At the very least, pack a deck of cards and a swimsuit, and go car camping at the nearest lake. Just being outside can be relaxing, especially if you have nothing pressing to do.
Try a new holistic therapy
The summer is a great time to take yoga outside, practice tai chi in the park, or join a sports therapy session or other adventure and outdoors therapy. Commit to engaging in enough sessions to get through the summer and then decide whether or not you would like to continue the new therapy when the weather gets colder.
Go to the library
There are almost always great reading challenges for adults as well as kids, group meetings, author talks, and more at the library. Even if you have never been much of a reader, what do you have to lose? Go pick up the book that formed the basis for your favorite new summer movie release. Pick a genre and binge read your way through. Join a reading group and read something you may never have otherwise considered.
Check out summer music festivals
At the beach or lake, at the local park, music festivals large and small – Louisiana is a great place for music, and you do not have to look far to find new bands or see your favorites. Just make sure to bring a few sober friends with you to help you stay sober even when you are surrounded by people who are under the influence.
Hit the farmers’ market
Farmers’ markets are everywhere in the summer. They are a great place to wander leisurely while shopping for fresh, local vegetables, eggs, and other foods. Try different cuisines, listen to great music, and take the time to just be outside.
Go to the pool
Find a community pool, a neighborhood pool, or a local center, and go every day. There are many therapeutic effects of swimming regularly, not to mention a great workout. Not only do you feel relaxed while you are doing it, but it can contribute to an overall feeling of relaxation throughout the day.
Meditate
It’s free, flexible, and can be done just about anywhere. Meditation is a great way to relax any time of year, but during the summer, you can take it outside. Head out to a great view, your favorite park, or the water – wherever you feel most calm, centered, and focused.
Enjoy the swamp
There are few things more relaxing than a gentle kayak or boat trip out in your favorite swamp, with the trees dripping moss into the still, calm water. Rent a boat and head out on your own, or join a guided tour and get to know a new area you’ve never seen.
Spend time with sober friends
Spending time doing pretty much anything with positive people who make you feel confident and strong in your sobriety is a great way to spend any day. In fact, even if the situation is not so relaxing, it will be much easier to handle when you have good people by your side helping you to stay sober. Call the people you meet in recovery before you head to the farmers’ market, see a movie, go for a swim, or check out a new kind of therapy. Familiar faces and people who make you laugh make every situation more relaxing.
Exercise
Exercise is a great way to release tension from the body and mind. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety and improves our mood. You don't have to go to the gym to exercise. You can go for a walk, run, or bike ride, do yoga, or even dance in your living room.
Connect with Loved Ones
Spending time with loved ones is a great way to relax and reduce stress. It helps to improve our mood and increases our sense of connection and well-being. You can call a friend, have a video chat, or even meet up for a socially distanced walk.
Practice Self-Care
Self-care is essential for our mental and physical well-being. It helps us to recharge and refresh our energy. Self-care can be anything that makes you feel good, such as taking a bubble bath, reading a book, or watching your favorite movie.
Seek Professional Help
If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, or addiction, it's important to seek professional help. There are many resources available, such as therapists, support groups, and hotlines. You don't have to go through it alone.
Breathing Techniques
Deep breathing exercises can be a great way to reduce stress and improve relaxation. When we're stressed, our breathing becomes shallow, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and tension. Deep breathing exercises help to slow down our breathing and activate the body's relaxation response.
One simple technique is called belly breathing. To do this exercise, sit or lie down in a comfortable position and place one hand on your belly. Take a deep breath in through your nose, filling your lungs with air and feeling your belly rise. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your belly fall. Repeat this exercise for several minutes, focusing on the sensation of your breath moving in and out of your body.
Another technique is called 4-7-8 breathing. To do this exercise, sit up straight and place the tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth. Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whooshing sound. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven, then exhale completely through your mouth to a count of eight while making a whooshing sound. Repeat this cycle for several minutes.
These breathing techniques can be done anywhere at any time when you need to relax or reduce stress. They are simple but effective tools that you can use to take control of your mind and body's response to stressors in life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to relax without relapsing. Relaxation is essential for our mental and physical well-being, and there are many ways to achieve it without the use of drugs or alcohol. By practicing mindfulness meditation, exercise, connecting with loved ones, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help, you can achieve relaxation and improve your overall sense of well-being.
How will you relax in recovery this summer?
