August is National Wellness Month! This is relevant to recovery, because recovery is more than just being sober. It’s about healing physically, mentally, and emotionally. Wellness, too, is about all these dimensions of well-being.
We tend to see physical and mental health as separate things, but they are very much connected. If you are in physical pain, your mental health suffers. Rough mental health can come with a lot of bodily symptoms. You may also have a difficult time taking care of your body if you are struggling with your mental health.
Wellness in Recovery
In recovery, healing and wellness can mean so many different things. Setting boundaries with people who are triggering to you protects both your mental health and sobriety. Meditating has numerous benefits, from helping with emotional regulation, to improving focus, to reducing anxiety.
Even seemingly simple things like drinking enough water are very good for you—and more possible in recovery. When I was in active addiction, I barely drank any water; then I would drink tons and tons of alcohol and become even more dehydrated. It’s difficult to monitor your water intake when you’re not really present.
A couple years into sobriety, I downloaded a water app. It might sound silly, but drinking water is probably the second-most life-changing thing I’ve done for my health, after getting sober.
I say this because wellness can seem like an overwhelming idea; it’s so broad, and it’s easy to think of people who are into “wellness” as beacons of health who only eat kale. But wellness in its purest form is just considering your basic needs and realizing they’re worth being met. This can be for things like water—or things like safety, self-worth, and human connection.
This month, and really every month, remember that recovery is more than just the absence of substances. It’s building a life that feels good to you and improves your well-being.
If you are struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, there is help and hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for mental health disorders and addiction in facilities across the country. Our staff—many of whom are in recovery themselves—will help you heal in all ways. To learn more, call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.