There are countless benefits to spending time in nature. Being outdoors has been linked to reduced stress, more energy, better physical health, and much more. Nature is often looked at as the “ultimate healer,” and it can even be a practical, effective, and enjoyable addition to your recovery process.
If you’re recovering from Alcohol Use Disorder and you’ve been looking for something extra to help you maintain sobriety, spending time in nature could very well be the solution. There are endless opportunities to get outside and do something that’s not only enjoyable but healing.
Some may worry about being ‘off the grid’ and how it will impact their recovery. Since accountability is such an essential aspect of recovery, any deterrence can impact your sobriety journey. Nevertheless, engaging with the natural world does not mean you have to compromise on your commitment to recovery, thanks to Soberlink’s innovative solution.
Soberlink offers a discreet and reliable way to stay digitally connected to your support network while taking some time to physically disconnect. Known as “remote alcohol monitoring technology,” Soberlink allows you to send instant test results to loved ones multiple times a day to demonstrate your commitment to sobriety. During each test, built-in facial recognition confirms your identity and tamper sensors ensure no attempts at cheating have taken place. The result? Instant proof that you are sober, rebuilding trust, and putting loved ones’ minds at ease. This level of transparency not only bolsters your determination but also ensures that you remain aligned with your recovery objectives, even as you immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
If you’re not sure how to make the most of your time outdoors, we’ve got you covered with a few easy and beneficial ways to connect with nature.
1. Visiting Local Parks
You don’t have to go far to experience the benefits of nature. Head to local parks or sanctuaries to enjoy anything from tranquil, serene moments to joy-filled experiences of family fun. Sometimes, changing your environment can help with the recovery process. That might be something as simple as getting out of the house for an hour or so when you’re fighting the urge to drink. Your local parks encourage calm fun in the sun. Read a book underneath a tree, have a picnic with friends, or get moving with a game of frisbee.
If you want to take things one step further, consider traveling somewhere new to experience nature more fully. Many might associate travel with a strict, fast-paced agenda, but this may contradict the mental benefits of nature. Instead, take a slower approach to travel so you can appreciate the benefits, such as:
● Self-sufficiency;
● Stress relief;
● Community connection.
These benefits can offer an additional boost in your recovery process, and it likely won’t take long before you’re planning your next trip.
2. Get Physical
If there’s one thing better than simply spending time outdoors, it’s doing something active outdoors. Often, nature calls for us to be active because there’s so much to do and explore. Whether you go for a jog in your neighborhood, go for a hike in a local park, or even join your friends for a weekend bike ride, some of the biggest mental health benefits of getting physical include:
● Reduced anxiety;
● Reduced depression;
● Boosted self-esteem;
● Better cognitive function.
Things like anxiety and depression can serve as triggers for Alcohol Use Disorder. Learning to manage these triggers through nature is a wonderful way to take charge of your health.
3. Go Off the Beaten Path
You don’t necessarily have to travel far to experience the benefits of surrounding yourself with it. Take a long hike on your own or with friends. Or, plan a camping trip. When you’re in the middle of a natural setting, you can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, or climbing. A solo trip can help with self-reflection, but if you’re able to go camping or take a day trip somewhere with friends, it can be even better for your recovery.
Spending time with loved ones can also foster accountability. It’s an important part of the recovery process, and when you’re already using Soberlink’s technology to keep yourself accountable, getting your loved ones involved is an extra step that will help you feel supported and seen along the way. Additionally, accountability can help to boost your self-esteem and self-worth, while strengthening the connections and relationships that can so often become damaged due to drinking.
4. Start a New Hobby
You might be thinking to yourself that going outside is no big deal. Most people get outdoors at least once each day, right? But, are you making the most of spending your time outdoors and recognizing how it could benefit your recovery journey?
To fully understand some of the benefits of appreciating nature, consider starting a hobby that will keep you outdoors longer. Gardening, for example, can be fantastic for your recovery. It’s known to reduce stress, and when you get your hands in the dirt and realize you’re doing something completely organic and natural, you can take advantage of the “nature pill” that so many researchers believe in. The healing power of nature isn’t just anecdotal. The mental and physical health impacts are well-documented.
Gardening, in particular, can improve your mood, give you something to look forward to and care for, and provide a sense of accomplishment. It will help to reduce negative feelings that might be plaguing you, so you can replace them with positive ones. Plus, it’s a hobby you can really enjoy all year. Don’t limit yourself to spring and summer planting. Planning root vegetables, squashes, and herbs can leave you with healthy produce all year, and enjoying the beauty of the fall colors can improve your mood and help you feel inspired and optimistic.
There are so many ways to connect with the outdoors. It’s about finding what works for you and what keeps your interest. But, no matter where you are on your recovery journey, it’s never too early or too late to start letting nature work its magic. Step outside today, and start enjoying the benefits.
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