Physical Activity in Recovery

The vast majority of treatment centers have a gym somehow involved into the center, but, not many people are educated on the importance of utilizing that to benefit themselves and their brain in recovery. There are a HUGE number of benefits in regards to physical activity for anyone in recovery and if this tool is used properly it will greatly improve their overall way of living.

Physical activity shortens post-actute withdrawals and lessens the symptoms and severity of the individual's PAWS. People who suffer from substance abuse are generally impulsive people and during active addiction their pre-frontal cortex is severely affected by the disease. Physical activity is proven to help people exercise their pre-frontal lobes which is used for many functions such as forward-thinking, consequence, personality expression, moderating social behavior, empathy, rational thinking and more. Physical activity also helps people better regulate their emotions and decision making, decreasing the chance of amygdala hijack (impulsive and usually irrational emotional response to an activating event). Physical activity also releases endorphins which makes you feel good naturally and balances dopamine and seratonin which is key to individuals struggling with mental health issues.

"Laziness" is buried deep in our DNA as human beings. Our ancestors needed to conserve their calories because of the lack of food and the need to hunt for it rather than being able to go to a grocery store to get what they needed. Living at cause is gratifying for anyone because instead of "life happening to us", we are the ones directing our lives. Use contrary action in your life when the feeling of laziness overcomes and take a part in your life and your recovery.