9 Ways Jogging Is Beneficial For Those In Addiction Recovery

Quitting a substance is just one part of the recovery process. The real test is the one that you will have to pass when you leave drug rehab. Jogging is an activity that can help you stay sober. There are several ways that you can benefit from running. 

1. A Natural High 

Dopamine is a chemical that is released when you run. Dopamine produces a feeling of happiness and well-being. This is a phenomenon is known as runner’s high. Running also helps create endorphins. The endorphins naturally kill pain. 

2. Reduces Depression 

Depression is a problem that is common in people who are going through addiction recovery. People can feel depressed for several reasons. They may feel depressed because of the physical and mental changes that they are going through. They may also feel depressed because they think about the hurt and pain that they have caused other people. Additionally, the uncertainty of the future can also cause depression. 

Studies have shown that people who are depressed are more likely to relapse. Running is a great way to fight depression. 

3. Helps Your Brain Health 

The brain is subjected to a lot of damage when someone abuses drugs and alcohol. The good news is that this brain damage can be reversed. One of the ways that you can heal the brain is by jogging. 

4. Reduce Your Cravings for Alcohol and Drugs 

The cravings for drugs and alcohol can be intense. That is why many people end up relapsing. Running can reduce your drugs and alcohol. In fact, because running produces a natural high, you may be tempted to go for a run instead of use drugs and alcohol. If the drug and alcohol cravings are gone, then you will be less likely to relapse. 

5. Helps You Develop Self-Discipline 

Self-discipline is an important part of the recovery process. You have to be able to keep your feelings and weaknesses under control. Running will help you develop self-discipline. If you get up and run every day, then it will be a lot easier for you to discipline yourself in other aspect of your life. You will have an easier time staying sober if you have self-discipline. 

6. Boost Your Self-Esteem 

Many recovering drug and alcohol addicts have low self-esteem. They may constantly beat themselves up because of their past mistakes. However, running can help you boost your self-esteem in many ways. Running helps you improve the way that your body looks. If you are happier with your appearance, then your self-esteem will improve. 

Running will also help give you a sense of accomplishment. You will feel good about yourself when you get up and run every day. 

7. Regulate Your Sleep 

It is hard for many people who are going through recovery to get the proper amount of rest. It will take time for your body to adjust to life without drugs. However, you will have a much easier time sleeping if you run on a regular basis. 

8. Provide You with A Support System 

You will have to get new friends if your old ones used drugs and alcohol. It can be difficult to let your old friends go. However, if you run, then you will be able to meet like-minded people who have a love for health and fitness. These friends can give you the support that you need to stay sober. 

9. Change Your Outlook on Life 

Running can change the way that you look at life. You will feel a sense of pride and self-worth. You will also have a brighter outlook on the future. You may feel more compelled to move forward and complete your goals.

To learn more about drug addiction including treatment options, have a look at https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/drug-addiction/.