Running Can Help Support Your Recovery From Addiction

Addiction is a difficult condition that requires careful evaluation and a treatment plan that includes a variety of methods to help the individual manage both physical and psychological issues. Running has been found to be a valuable tool for dealing with a number of issues involved in substance abuse and recovery. At Newport Beach Recovery Center in Costa Mesa, CA, we incorporate running to help manage symptoms and support our patients’ return to a healthy lifestyle.

Physical Benefits of Running

Individuals who have been abusing substances for a number of years may be faced with a number of health issues that need care. Running is a good way to build up overall health, improve cardiovascular function, enhance lung function and strengthen muscles in the back, chest and lower body. Running helps tone the body in general and improves circulation. Individuals who run are more likely to engage in other health-promoting activities like eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol and nicotine. Studies show that even a moderate amount of exercise can provide big benefits to your health, and running is one of the easiest ways to achieve and maintain a better physical condition.

Psychological Benefits of Running

If you’ve ever wondered about those people you see running along the street in all kinds of weather, there’s a reason they are so dedicated to their exercise regime. Running also provides emotional benefits, releasing pleasure-giving dopamine into their bodies, to help them feel more upbeat and in control. This effect can be especially important for individuals recovering from addiction, who may experience depression as a result of withdrawal from the substance. Anxiety can also be a problem for those in recovery, and running can also help with related symptoms. Running can also help to reduce fatigue and feelings of anger that many individuals deal with during their recovery from substance abuse. The feeling of being in control and power that running provides are of immense benefit to individuals in recovery, to counteract the frustration that often occurs when learning to overcome the consequences of their past behavior.

Special Benefits During Addiction Recovery

Addiction specialists understand the benefits of exercise during treatment and in the entire recovery process. Maintaining sobriety and rebuilding your life can be a difficult process, full of stress and moments of doubt. Exercise helps to manage stress and improve emotional well-being, which can be a critical help for individuals recovering from substance abuse. Medications used to manage psychological conditions found in dual diagnosis situations can have the side effect of weight gain. Running helps individuals to manage their weight better, while boosting natural body chemicals that regulate mood. In addition, running also promotes connecting with others who engage in healthy lifestyles, which is an important factor in maintaining sobriety over the long term.

Running Is A Good Exercise Choice

Running is easy and does not require specialized training. You don’t require specialized equipment beyond a good pair of running shoes. Running can be adapted to your level of physical condition. You can start slowly and build your endurance. Running can be done with a partner for encouragement and healthy competition. It provides reliable results that can be implemented whenever a difficult period or “trigger†presents itself. For these reasons, a running regime can be easily incorporated into any individual’s plan for sobriety maintenance after treatment.

Newport Beach Recovery Center Utilizes A Variety of Methods To Support Recovery

Because each person is different in their physical and psychological makeup, we understand that one method may not work as well for one person as it would for another. That’s why we employ a wide range of therapeutic modalities to help our patients discover the most successful ways to recover from substance abuse. We offer support during detoxification, inpatient treatment, and outpatient programs. Call Newport Beach Recovery Center today at 949-577-8757 to learn more about the benefits of running and other methods to support your recovery as you rebuild a normal life after addiction.