Back to Blog Posts
While in recovery, you may miss the old hangout spots and your old friends you spent so much time with before. It can be challenging to find ways to fill your time with sober, fun activities. After going to the gym and going on hikes a million times, Saturday nights may get pretty dull, especially for someone who is used to spending their weekends out at bars or clubs using substances. Learning new activities to fill your time can not only prevent you from relapsing but make your experience of recovery more fun!
Boredom is a Relapse Trigger
To some people, recovery may seem boring compared to the lifestyle they were living before. Finding ways to fill that void can be a struggle. This feeling of emptiness may even bring up negative emotions. If you allow yourself to stay idle, you are more susceptible to making bad decisions that lead to a relapse. You have to avoid boredom at all costs, especially if you spend a lot of time alone. When you experience boredom and isolation, you may revert to substance use to fill your time or think that nobody will know that you got high again. It’s a good idea to gather all of your sober friends for some healthy hangouts while in recovery.
Re-decorate Your Home
Some people may think that things like home décor are expensive, but in reality, there are many DIY (do it yourself) projects that you can make your home come to life. When the space you live in looks nice, it makes it easier to relax. You can add different plants and hang them from the ceiling or your window. Go to Home Depot or Big Lots and have a blast! Even painting your home can give you a positive mood change.
Pamper Yourself
Making sure your body is well polished isn't just for women. Getting your nails done and going to a spa is for men too. Opening your mind to new things that make you feel good inside and out will help you along with the recovery process. Don’t be afraid to get that facial and put some cucumber on your eyes. All of these things are top tier relaxation that will take your mind off of the stress that accompanies daily life.
Volunteer in Your Community
Volunteering can be a fulfilling and positive activity. Look online or in the local paper for food drives or community gardening. If you live in or close to the inner city, there are plenty of opportunities for you to help. Volunteering will give you a chance to meet other positive-minded people who you can relate to.
Giving back can also be seen as therapeutic for some. Seeing the results of something that you spent all day on can open your eyes to the fact that you can indeed complete something. There may even be some opportunities for you to volunteer at places where other people are working through their recovery process. Helping another person along their journey to healing can help you recognize how far you have come in your own journey. This can be inspiring, and you will be mentally ready to further your journey on the road to recovery after this.
Take a Camping Trip
Camping is an excellent option for sober fun and a few days away from the stress of life. If you go camping, you can save money compared to getting a hotel on a beach. A camping trip will also be quiet and relaxing. You and your friends can get a fire going and have amazing conversations. Camping can also be used as an opportunity to rebuild the bond you had with your friends and family before you started using substances. If the outdoors isn't your thing, remember you can find campsites that can provide amenities to your liking.
Spend Time in the Kitchen
Anything that teaches patience is suitable for a person in the recovery process. Your mother may have made it seem easy growing up, but baking takes a lot of patience and attention to detail. Baking is literal science, and there's a possibility that things might not go as planned the first time. This will teach you that it takes time for things to come together. If you are consistent and serious about anything, you can get the job done.
Just Try Something New
Trying new hobbies can strengthen your recovery and help fight off boredom. Try something that promotes a healthy and positive life. Recovery has its challenges, but if you are surrounded by people that love and support you, it can be easier. The people in your life will be more than happy to try something different than going for drinks. The opportunities are endless -- this is just the beginning of a new, improved version of yourself!
Trying new things can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. Now that you are not using substances, you may have more leisure time on your hands, giving you more room for extra activities and time with family. Fighting off boredom is essential to the recovery process. Feelings of boredom and isolation can be a relapse trigger; you may start using drugs or alcohol again to fill your time when you have nothing to do. Luckily, there are many healthy, sober options for new activities to enjoy. Consider re-decorating your home, pampering yourself, baking, going on a camping trip, or engaging in anything else that you find enjoyable! It is crucial to work towards avoiding relapse, but if you happen to slip up, you are not alone. Relapse is not a failure. If you or a loved one has relapsed or showed signs of relapse, don’t be afraid to seek help. Call START UP RECOVERY today at (310) 773-3809.