Drug and alcohol addictions are slightly different to the other addictions we know today. With smoking, for instance, you can choose to quit cold turkey and actually do it. With drinking or drug-related problems, on the other hand, this approach can prove to be fatal. There are side effects and additional withdrawal symptoms to deal with before you can be free of your addiction.
Exercise can be the perfect friend for those who are trying to solve their addiction problems. In this article, we are going to take a closer look at how routine exercise really helps. Let’s get started, shall we?
A New Set of Activities
Changing your routine is among the most important things to do if you want to break the addiction. Many drug intervention and rehab programs suggest altering your daily schedule entirely to eliminate potential triggers (or reminders) and help ease the withdrawal effects. You will feel fewer cravings and can focus more on directing your energy for recovery.
Exercise is the perfect filler activity for the job. Instead of having a lot of gaps in your daily schedule, you can fill them with light and low-impact exercises. There are exercises that can specifically help improve the body’s metabolism, allowing cells to regenerate faster and the entire body to fight the effects of addiction more effectively.
Let’s not forget that exercise also helps you stay focused. A quick jog around the rehabilitation facility is often more than enough to help you maintain focus and spirit for a speedier recovery. Be sure to consult your doctor about how to schedule small exercise sessions as part of your days.
A Stronger Support Group
Did you know that people who exercise together bond faster and more strongly over time? Runners in big cities across the country are close to each other. They form small ‘families’, clubs, and even organizations to meet fellow runners and support each other. The same approach is being used in rehab facilities to aid those with addiction problems. The aim is to connect with each other on a more personal level.
Having the same addiction alone is not motivation enough. Being able to support each other through exercise sessions and share the experience with fellow patients creates a strong support group that increases the chances of its members breaking away from their addictions successfully.
Sustainable Growth
Getting rid of the addiction is just the first step. Some say it is even more difficult to avoid relapsing and returning to old habits. Once again, exercise is here to the rescue. Similar to when setting new activities or routines, you can use exercise sessions to maintain focus and train your body.
As you feel better about your body – and as parts of the body get repaired through physical activity and medication – you become less likely to be lured by the false appeal of drinking or consuming drugs. You can see your body getting better and stronger. You will breathe better and have more stamina to get through your day. All you have to do is focus on the exercise and keep fighting your addictions.