Recovery from an addiction to alcohol is not over once you have left rehab; it is something that you must care for and nurture for many years to come. Now that summer has arrived, nurturing your recovery is a must because relapsing is likely to be easier than ever.
For you and many other recovering alcoholics summer is a time that means barbeques, beaches, parties and alcohol. It is also a prime time for many to let loose and become a little less worried about behaviour and daily routines. As tempting as it may be to let go over the summer, it is simply not worth all the time that you have spent on becoming and remaining sober. Therefore, it is important to learn how to maintain a healthy recovery and prevent a relapse. Now you may be curious as to how you will be able to have fun over the summer without turning to alcohol; let’s take a look at how to do so.
Be a Tourist for a Day
It is likely that somewhere nearby there are cultural tourist sites that you can visit. In fact, many of these places hold performances, talks, and other activities during the summer season. Check out your local newspaper or tourist board to discover what’s happening and remember, you may learn some exciting facts while having fun!
Explore Festivals
Throughout summer you may see festivals and fairs popping up all over the place; take advantage of this time and check some out. You may have the opportunity to try new foods, watch creative dances, listen to independent music, play games, and go crazy on rides. Exploring these outdoor summer events will be full of fun and are great to venture to with some sober friends.
Get Your Game On
For many people summertime means parks, footballs, sports bags, and running shoes. These are great places to meet other people and have fun while getting fit! Involvement in a sports activity can make you feel great and is one of the best things that you can do for your recovery.
Observe Nature
If you’re in need of a calm relaxing day, take a trip to a nearby park or nature reserve. Even cities often have parks in which people may visit; many of these do not allow alcohol. Observing the greenery, smelling the flowers, and spotting colorful wildlife can be a very rewarding experience.
Go Green
Take a summer day and give back. Plastic and other waste is becoming more abundant each and every day while bins are becoming more and more sparser, making littering an ever increasing problem. Join a community clean up group and go green by collecting garbage. If this does not interest you, go online and search for other green volunteer opportunities.
Take up a Hobby
There are numerous hobbies that are available to you, try different ones until you find one that you enjoy doing. Think about painting, sculpting, wood carving, jewelry making, airplane building, etc. there is something for everyone.
Due to the rise in relapses during the summer time, it is important to take note of the above tips on preventing a relapse. It may be useful to make a list of sober activities that you can do throughout the summer and gradually work your way down this list. Summer does not have to be a dreadful time; you simply need the right recovery tools and techniques to make it fun and perhaps the most enjoyable summer ever!
If you or someone you know has an addiction to alcohol, contact The Cabin Chiang Mai today. Change to Change.
Summer fun can equal sober fun, it’s easier than you think!
