Treatment for addiction encompasses healthy and fun activities that clients can engage in while they focus on sobriety. Underlying mental health conditions are a contributing factor to a person’s addiction. Outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, rock climbing, cliff diving, walking, and snowboarding have great health benefits for the mind, body, and soul.
Being outdoors is proven to decrease levels of depression, anxiety, and stress while improving physical wellness. According to Mardie Townsend, PhD, an honorary professor at the School of Health and Social Development at Deakin University in Australia, “there is mounting evidence that contact with nature has significant positive impacts on mental health.” Nature offers positive distractions in an oxygen-enriched environment with psychological and social benefits.
When you drink alcohol or take drugs, you become disconnected from your environment and senses are shut down. Nature revitalizes and awakens the senses and mindfulness of your surroundings. Nature and an oxygen-rich environment can help you reconnect spirituality.
Nature reduces anger, fear, and stress while increasing pleasant feelings and contributes to your physical well-being while decreasing blood pressure, heart rate, and muscle tension. According to Ray Barlow, LSAC co-founder/program director of Legacy Outdoors Adventures, nature helps us find healing and purpose. In an interview with Sarah A Benton MS, LMHC, LPC for Psychology Today (2012), he stated, “There is a healing power in nature that cannot be measures nor explained, yet it is very real. Time in the wilderness seems to have a healing effect on even the deepest wounds.”
Treatment programs that incorporate outdoor activities into group outings prove that you can have fun while being sober. Breathing in fresh air in a serene, natural setting improves mental wellness. Many people who struggle with addiction and mental health complications battle disruptive sleep patterns. People who exercise and stay active outdoors on a regular basis experience sleep that is more restful.
There are social benefits to participating in outdoor group outings. It provides opportunities to connect with other sober individuals and establish meaningful and sustainable relationships. Outdoor group outings also strengthen team building and decision-making skills. It also helps you connect to a new lifestyle without drugs or alcohol.
If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction and a mental health condition, get help today. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Treatment is available and recovery is possible.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204