Simple Healthy Habits That Benefit Individuals in Recovery
Making healthy changes to your lifestyle can be a big job, and when you’re also in recovery, it can feel like an almost impossible task at times. That’s why it’s important to start with small changes at first so you can avoid becoming overwhelmed. The good news is, there are several things you can try that won’t interfere with your sobriety or your goals, from finding new ways to have fun to making yoga and meditation part of your daily routine. Not only can a few small lifestyle changes help you feel better physically, they can assist in reducing stress so you can stay focused, calm, and happy. If you’re an older adult and feel you need some support, Seniors in Sobriety has a wealth of resources to choose from. Here are a few ways you can bring healthy habits into your schedule that will benefit your overall well being:
Start with your environment
Having the right environment is important for your mental and physical health, and you might be surprised at how easy it is to change things for the better. Since your home is the place where you go to feel comfortable and rested, start in the bedroom by adding soft new bedding or blackout curtains. Get rid of clutter all around, as this can interfere with your sleep quality and leave you feeling anxious or stressed. You might also add a few houseplants, which can improve the air quality and give you a mental health boost.
Your work environment is just as important, especially if you have a home office. If you’ve been feeling overly stressed or have been experiencing headaches while you work, choosing the right lighting can make a big difference; if possible, incorporate some natural light into your workspace. You can also create an organizational system for both your digital and paper records to make finding and sharing documents much easier.
Try a new workout
Getting active is another way to relieve stress and feel better all around, and it can also provide social opportunities that are helpful for those in recovery. Look for simple ways to introduce a workout into your routine, such as taking a dance class or trying a few yoga poses. Yoga is an exceptional way for those in recovery to get fit because it balances both physical and mental wellness by incorporating beneficial activities like meditation and mindfulness. If you’re living with a disability, you can modify your yoga workout in the water or by using a chair or other balancing tool.
If yoga isn’t your cup of tea, try getting active outdoors. Go for a hike, hit up the walking trail at your local park, head to the pool for a swim, or try horseback riding. Spending time outside is another great way to boost your mental health, and it can even help improve your sleep quality.
Try something new
Even with a new workout routine and some changes to your environment, you may still find yourself falling into unhealthy habits such as indulging in too much screen time. One way to combat that is to try something new. Picking up a fun hobby or learning about something you’ve always been interested in can help boost your confidence, make new connections with like-minded people, and leave you feeling ready to tackle new challenges. Consider taking a class or downloading an educational app, taking up baking, playing a sport, or getting creative by learning to paint, crochet, or sculpt.
Taking steps to choose a healthier lifestyle can be daunting without the right resources, but fortunately, there are plenty of tools you can use to make the process easier. Get support from family and friends, utilize helpful apps, and remember that if one lifestyle change doesn’t work for you, there are others to choose from.
Need more information about Seniors in Sobriety? Get in touch today.
Article author: Teresa Greenhill – info@mentalhealthforseniors.com
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