Starting an exercise routine can be a great way to distract yourself from cravings and even withdrawal symptoms. The natural release of chemicals like dopamine from physical activity resets the brain to functioning normally again. Long term withdrawal signs like depression and anxiety can be reduced, and even potentially cured more quickly, as a result. Here are 5 types of exercises that are great for curbing addiction cravings and promote sober living.
Some Tips Before You Start
Anyone should create a plan and be realistic when setting and achieving their goals. It is easy to feel frustrated and overwhelmed, especially right after something like a drug detox or rehab stay. Here are some extra tips for success.
-Set your objective: It is important to have a plan before getting started. This can be things like a goal for the amount of weight you want to lose per month or even just the amount of times that you aim to workout per week. This is totally up to you, but it is a good idea to be realistic in your expectations of yourself, so that you don’t get defeated and give up along the way.
-Start off slow: This goes along with knowing your limits. In order to be successful in your exercise plans, it is a good idea to start off slowly and build your routine’s intensity over time.
-Maintain a good exercise-life balance: It is important to avoid making working out your only goal in life. Exercising too much could lead to health problems and injuries if you’re not careful. To avoid this, taking on other hobbies may help.
-Have a Variety: Having a wide array of workouts in your exercise routine may make it feel less boring. It can also reduce your risk of over exerting a specific part of the body, and you will likely get a better full bodied workout.
-Stay positive: It may sound cheesy, but keeping a positive attitude is one of the most crucial elements to achieving your goals. Keep your chin up even when it seems hard. You’ve got this!
- Yoga
Yoga is great because it has a diverse amount of workouts. Traditional yoga focuses on low intensity body movements, breathing exercises, and meditation. This is great for those needing to relax and reduce anxiety. On the other hand, power yoga can be a great full bodied workout that focuses on strength. Incorporating one or both types to your exercise plan is easy, and it adds that much needed variety to keep things interesting.
- Low Intensity Cardio
Doing low intensity workouts like walking or hiking is a great way to get the blood pumping. This may be a great way to get started for those who don’t feel ready for high intensity cardio exercises like running or jogging. Getting outside has also been known to improve mood.
- Weight Training
This is another great workout that you can add on to your routine. Weight lifting has been proven to help improve sleep cycles over time, so this may be a great solution for those experiencing insomnia. It also provides new goals that you can set for yourself. Seeing improvement on how much you can lift may help boost your confidence.
- Team Sports
Participating in team sports provides both an exercise outlet and positive interactions with new people. Working with others as a team and making new friends may bring around a new support system that you hadn’t expected, along with all of the benefits of a cardio focussed workout.
- High Intensity Cardio
High intensity cardio exercises like running, jogging, and swimming give all of the same benefits as hiking or walking. However, you definitely see more physical results and payoff from burning more calories.
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