Some people fear recovery because they worry about boredom or depression. These fears are normal. Maybe you feel like life won't be exciting anymore. Maybe you're concerned about fitting in with people or making new friends.
Finding the right sober hobbies can make a tremendous difference in helping you feel motivated in your recovery. Good hobbies keep you keep occupied- they redirect your focus onto something positive and challenging.
Let's get into some of the best activities worth giving a try.
Outdoor Exercise
Whether it's surfing, trail running, or skiing, research shows that moving your body in nature yields numerous benefits. When you're outside, you're naturally increasing your exposure to sunlight, enhancing vitamin D production. Vitamin D is associated with boosted immunity, mood improvement, and reduced inflammation.
Research also shows that people who spend more time outdoors tend to be happier. Nature forces your body to adapt to natural challenges- and navigating new terrain and weather keeps your mind sharp and alert.
Finally, outdoor exercise tends to be social. It's easy to meet up with a friend and go for a hike or bike ride. In this case, this sober hobby becomes a triple threat: you're connecting with others, challenging yourself physically, and boosting your emotional well-being.
Volunteering
Giving back can be one of the most rewarding parts of your recovery. Volunteering allows you to leave some of your good fortunes with others- it also permits you to share your resources with the world around you.
What's more? Research shows that people who volunteer at least once a month tend to have better mental health than people who don't volunteer at all. Research also shows that the effect compounds over time- once you start volunteering, you tend to become happier.
To get started, consider looking at local opportunities in your area. It's okay to start small! Do what you can, and try to avoid overextending yourself.
Maybe it's helping at the nearest soup kitchen or offering to tutor a neighbor. Perhaps it's driving a friend to an appointment or spending a weekend day helping at the animal shelter. Remember that small acts can lead to significant changes.
Cooking
It's not uncommon for people to live on their own for the first time once in recovery. In other cases, some people have lived independently, but they didn't do a great job at taking care of themselves.
Cooking is an excellent sober hobby that has limitless benefits. First, it's an important life skill- after all, everyone needs to eat to survive! Additionally, cooking can help you save money.
Beyond the essential necessities, cooking can allow you to embrace your creative, artistic talents. Food can be such a blank canvas- there is so much you can do with just a few ingredients. To get started, consider buying a few beginner cookbooks or simply turning to YouTube for some introductory lessons.
Art
When you were a child, did you ever enjoy doodling in class? Did you ever feel better after writing a poem when you felt sad? As it turns out, your younger self was onto something!
Whether it's painting, drawing, sculpting, or photography, all forms of art allow you to harness happiness, relaxation, and raw talent. Art requires you to be both patient and bold- it entails a sense of creativity with an inherent respect for structure and rules.
Best of all, art doesn't require much of an initial investment of time or money. You can get started with just a few supplies or a basic class.
Hard Skills
Hard skills refer to teachable, quantifiable abilities like computer programming, foreign languages, or specific certifications. These skills can undoubtedly be attractive when looking for a job. However, they can also be useful for simply expanding your knowledge and well-being.
Mastering hard skills requires critical thinking, concentration, and dedication. You will need to study and implement what you learn. You can also build upon certain skills- gaining foundational knowledge in one area may result in you seeking advanced certification.
You can improve your hard skills in multiple ways. First, you can consider seeking mentorship by someone who already has proficient knowledge. Or you may wish to attend a formal class at a community college or online program.
Final Thoughts on Sober Hobbies
There isn't an ideal activity that works for everyone. The best sober hobbies are the ones that you can commit to and enjoy.
Remember that hobbies are an integral part of self-care. Even if you're busy, it's important to prioritize these activities in your life. The more you can engage in self-care consistently, the better you will feel.
At The Resurface Group, we believe that sobriety can be life-changing, in all the best ways! We are here for you or your loved one on this exciting journey. Contact us today to learn more about our approach.
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