The recovery experience opens a world of possibilities. You can create a new identity for yourself and work toward the life you want, including work and play. You may focus on the “work” aspect of life in your recovery to maintain stability. However, once you attain that goal, working on the “play” aspect also becomes important. Discover how hobbies can help you commit to recovery and what you can do to explore your options.
How Could Hobbies Help Me During Recovery?
Hobbies have multiple benefits for people in recovery from opioid use disorder. They can help you:
- Improve your emotional wellness: Taking care of your mental health has a critical role to play in your path to sobriety. Hobbies help you practice self-care as part of a routine to manage your emotional well-being.
- Relieve stress: When you recover from opioid use disorder, managing stress can become a major area of focus. Picking up a new hobby gives you an activity that reduces stress and helps you handle the resulting urge to use.
- Keep your mind off triggers: If certain sensations or situations give you the temptation to use opioids, redirecting your thoughts can help you commit to treatment goals. You can turn to a hobby when you need to change your focus.
You may think of even more ways that hobbies could improve the recovery experience. Everyone has a different journey to sobriety, and you may have unique needs that hobbies can meet.
Finding New Interests to Explore
If you decide to try new hobbies for your recovery, you might need assistance in getting started. Think of all the things in life that make you happy, such as nature, animals, art or physical activity. Then, create a list of hobbies related to these interests. After you write down your potential hobbies, consider the time and/or money you need to invest in each one and what you can spare.
For more ideas, you can also ask your friends about their activities outside of work or school. They can introduce you to their hobbies and help you discover what you like about them. You could also learn about any classes, clubs or groups they attend as part of their hobbies.
Healthy Hobbies to Try as Part of Your Recovery Journey
When you adopt new hobbies as a recovery strategy, just about any activity can improve your well-being. These hobbies have a demonstrated effect on a person’s health:
- Yoga
- Reading
- Playing an instrument (ukulele for example)
- Dancing
- Owning or Fostering a pet
- Walking
- Healthy cooking
- Writing
- Learning a new language
Activities that stimulate your mind and body give you emotional and physical outlets. They let you direct your energy away from opioids and toward the things you value in life.
Comprehensive Support From MedMark Treatment Centers
You can find MedMark Treatment Centers clinics and our affiliates across the United States. At MedMark, we help people with opioid use disorder reclaim their lives through medication-assisted treatment. We welcome you to schedule an intake at your closest location or call your local MedMark to learn about recovery-friendly resources in the community. Contact us today through our online form or by calling 866-840-6685.
