In addition to individuals going through recovery, more and more people are choosing to lead a ‘cleaner’ lifestyle, one without alcohol and drugs. This feat is absolutely possible, but understand that it takes time to adjust to the fact that you are abstaining from alcohol or drugs for yourself, and that it can also take time for your friends who are still using to accept the changes you are making in your life, also.
These are a few helpful strategies to help navigate through this process while still remaining social:
- Learn to Say “No”: Possessing the confidence to turn down a drink when out with friends is priceless. Your close friends should understand your internal struggle and reverence your decision. Unfortunately there may be people who try to convince you to drink; they do not respect your life and decisions, but that is their issue, not yours. If you are worried about being embarrassed, and aren’t confident yet, you can always pull the bartender aside and ask them to make you a cocktail, minus any liquor.
- Sober Events: There is a wide array of activities taking place in your area that don’t even offer drugs or alcohol, and it isn’t hard to locate them. You can find fulfillment outside of the bar or back room without the temptation to overindulge. Coffee shops, movie theaters, and some concert venues could be the solution rather than gathering where drinking is front and center.
- Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: Many people find it worthwhile to start a fitness program where health and wellness is the main focus. Actually, it may be a natural result of coming out of recovery to do so. Joining a gym or fitness studio that offers classes in weight training, cardiovascular training, or martial arts may be intimidating at first, but it will surround you with people looking to achieve the same goal. Once you get over the first one or two lessons, you may find yourself with a new group of friends that not only will help you in your journey, but encourage better habits.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
