Forward Movement Magazine SUMMER ISSUE 2016 | Page 39

ABOUT THE it gives a person time to separate from whatever situation is causing the agitation. This time spent physically moving can be a period to think instead of acting impulsively and potentially dangerously. time is perfect for an individual to start an exercise program. (You could even sign up for a fitness competition, 5k, or mud run.) The less time a person spends on the couch thinking about the past, the better. New Habits Where To Start Most people that are entering recovery did not arrive on a particularly positive note or a winning streak. In most cases, individuals that are newly sober reached this part of their life through a string of harmful consequences and hard times. This can have a negative impact on self-esteem and belief in one’s self. The good news is that this particular area is one in which exercise can have a direct impact. By setting and reaching small goals with physical activity, a person may start to lay the foundation for winning behavior. Small successes with exercise can help to build confidence and lead to commitment and motivation in other areas of life. As self-efficacy increases, a person can continue to produce positive results as they gain confidence and handle situations as they arise. When starting down the road to recovery, it is common that people find themselves with an abundance of extra time on their hands. During a person’s drinking or drug using career, the majority of the day was spent thinking about using, actively using, or recovering from using. In sobriety, there are suddenly a large number of hours each day that are unaccounted for. This down time, if not filled with something positive or healthful, can be potentially dangerous for the recovering addict. This extra We know that exercise and being physically active can have a major impact on a person’s chances of staying sober, but where do you begin? The best way to implement a new workout routine is to be honest about where you are starting and have realistic goals. This may be as simple as a ten minute walk around the neighborhood a few times a week or going to play basketball for 20 minutes in the park. Try a few different activities and find one that you enjoy. The more fun that you are having being active, the more likely you are to stick with it. Initially, being consistent is the most important thing when becoming more active. Find a workout partner who will not let you skip a workout, or slack off. Or trying starting an Instagram account that focuses on your fitness journey and share it with people. This helps hold you accountable, and motivates you. The most important thing is to stick with your program and give your body time to adjust. Keep your eyes on your goals and be as tenacious about healing yourself as you were about harming yourself. You will be amazed at just how different and wonderful your new life can be. - 39 - author DAVE CANON Originally from San Francisco, Dave is a California native with extensive knowledge of addiction recovery and 12-step programs. He is passionate about the idea that food and nutrition can be a path to recovery from drug addiction and eating disorders. Dave is a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). In addition, he is trained as a pilates and yoga instructor focusing on mind-body exercise and a balanced holistic approach to wellness. View some of his work at www.NutritionInRecovery.com Addiction recovery websites www.nutritioninrecovery.com/ www.thefix.com/ www.addiction.com/