Staying healthy benefits your recovery. Healthy living involves healthy choices, nutritious eating, and exercise. Even moderate exercise several times a week is better for you than not exercising at all.

Exercise can help you get through cravings. Cravings can feel intense in the moment. If you get in the habit of exercising when you have a craving, you are developing new behaviors. Exercise doesn’t always mean a trip to the gym. Here are some alternative ways to get your blood pumping:

  • Go swimming
  • Take a walk around your neighborhood
  • Walk your dog
  • Go bowling
  • Play laser tag
  • Go roller skating/blading
  • Do yoga

Exercise is a healthy coping skill. Better coping skills are important for your recovery. Addiction was a negative coping skill. Implementing an exercise regimen can help you handle stress in a more positive way. Remember, it takes about 21 days to develop new habits. The longer you use exercise as a way to cope with cravings, the easier it becomes to abstain from alcohol and drugs.

Exercise releases chemicals in the brain that help you feel better. When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins. Endorphins are also released when you use alcohol or drugs. When you exercise, you are training your body to release endorphins in a natural and safe way. When this occurs, you are training your body to regulate itself naturally.

Exercise may make you more likely to reduce sugars and fats in your diet. Essentially, exercise is work and you’re more likely to eat healthier if you are exercising. The truth is that when you feel better, you’ll have healthier ways of coping with life and recovery.

Exercise can be meditative. Think about it. You are focused and in the moment. Movement can be a form of meditation. Exercise can also decrease depression and anxiety. Overall, exercise can help you feel better about not only your physical health but your emotional health, as well. Exercise helps you stay in the moment. Exercise helps you combat cravings, and learn newer, healthier coping skills. Exercise is a supplement to your recovery.

Hired Power understands addiction treatment. Hired Power uses innovative approaches to helping you get and stay sober.  If you want to know more about the benefits of exercise on your recovery, call Hired Power today at 800.910.9299. Hired Power is the expert you need to help you accomplish your recovery goals.