The Benefits of Exercise in Addiction Recovery

Successfully overcoming addiction requires more than quitting drugs and alcohol—it demands a total lifestyle change. But you don’t have to figure out how to do that on your own. In a luxury rehab, you can learn healthy new routines designed to heal your body as well as your mind.

Take a look at the key benefits of exercise in addiction recovery, as well as various fitness programs available in luxury rehab.

Exercise Can Heal the Body

Addiction wreaks havoc on your body, from its inner functions to your outer appearance. Exercise, on the other hand, can work wonders for your physical health. Healthy fitness routines can help restore proper functioning to your bones and joints, as well as your cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Getting fit can also boost your immune system and help you sleep better, which aids in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

Exercise Can Heal the Mind

Not only does addiction harm your body, but it also messes with your mind. In fact, depression and addiction often go hand in hand. But you can aid your recovery with a healthy fitness routine. Exercise releases endorphins and serotonin, which are known to decrease cravings and alleviate depression and anxiety. Exercise can also reduce stress, boost confidence, and enhance feelings of well-being and calm.

Exercise Can Provide Structure

When you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol, you spend a lot of time thinking about, acquiring, using, and recovering from the substance. So in recovery, you have a lot of extra time on your hands—and you need to replace negative behaviors with positive ones. Exercise is a habit you can feel good about, helping provide structure to your days. Working out can help distract you from cravings, prevent relapse, and give you something to look forward to each day.

Exercise Can Provide Social Connections

Instead of spending your time with people who are making unhealthy choices, surround yourself with those who are committed to living an addiction-free life. Exercise is an excellent way to connect with people who are avoiding toxic behaviors and practicing healthy living. Getting fit with others can help you form positive social connections—and that type of camaraderie is powerful. Positive social support is extremely valuable in your recovery journey.

Fitness Programs in Luxury Rehab

Thankfully, getting clean, healthy, and fit is not something you have to do on your own. A luxury rehab can help you detox and heal from addiction, supporting your journey to a healthy lifestyle. In a luxury rehab, exercise and therapy go hand in hand, providing holistic treatment to help you overcome addiction and make positive choices. Fitness instructors can provide support as you implement new routines and create healthy habits.  

Fitness programs at luxury rehab may include:

Yoga. This mind and body practice can be an incredibly helpful tool in addiction recovery. Practicing yoga in rehab can help you develop strength and flexibility, as well as discipline and confidence.

Horseback riding. Riding a horse is a great way to get outside and exercise, as well as to forge a bond and build trust with the animal—a cornerstone for rebuilding relationships with people.

Water sports. Sports like kayaking and paddleboarding offer the physical benefits of low-impact strength and endurance training, as well as the emotional benefits of a meditative natural setting.

Hiking. Take advantage of the beautiful surroundings of luxury rehab with a nature hike. Moving in the fresh air and natural environment can strengthen your body, clear your mind, and calm your spirit.

You don’t have to join a gym or run a marathon to reap the benefits of exercise for addiction recovery—you just have to get moving. Luxury rehab can provide the holistic treatment you need to quit drugs and alcohol, create new wellness routines, and enjoy a healthy, addiction-free life.

Want to learn more about the role of exercise in addiction recovery? Contact our trained admissions counselors at (888) 984-5288 to find out how to take the first steps to wellness at Beachside Rehab’s luxury treatment center.

Photo by Jenny Hill on Unsplash