When considering addressing substance use, disordered eating, or any other mental health disorders that may be getting in the way of achieving your maximum potential, Recovery Frameworks encourages looking at your values, your strengths, and your goals to come up with an action plan that helps you grow towards a brighter future. The ultimate goal is self-actualization, helping you to be the best you possible. To achieve this, we must live a well-rounded life. We must practice habits and skills that encourage wellness. To assist with these goals, we have developed a series of blog posts highlighting a skill or habit that you can try for yourself! This week's habit is getting into nature.
One of the things that consistently amazes us is the power of nature to heal and restore our mental and emotional well-being. As individuals in recovery, we know firsthand how challenging it can be to maintain a healthy balance in life. But we also know how essential it is to have some time outdoors, away from the stresses and distractions of modern life. If you're trying to enter recovery or improve your recovery, spending time in nature can be a game-changer. Here are some of the reasons why:
1. Nature is a Stress Reliever.
When you're trying to enter recovery, stress can be a major trigger for recurrences in behavior. But spending time in nature can help reduce your stress levels and give you a sense of calm and relaxation. Whether you're taking a walk in the woods, going for a swim in the ocean, or simply sitting under a tree, nature has a way of soothing our nervous system and helping us feel more centered and grounded.
2. Nature Helps us Connect with our Emotions
Anyone who has struggled with recovery knows how important it is to be in touch with their emotions. But it's not always easy to do that in a world that values productivity and efficiency over self-reflection and vulnerability. When you spend time in nature, you have a chance to slow down and tune in to your feelings. Whether you're gazing at a sunset, listening to the sound of a stream, or feeling the wind on your face, nature can help you connect with your inner self and gain a deeper understanding of your emotional needs.
3. Nature Provides a Sense of Purpose and Meaning
One of the biggest challenges of recovery is finding a sense of purpose and meaning in life. When you're struggling with addiction or disordered eating or a mental health disorder, it can feel like your life has lost its meaning and you're just going through the motions. But spending time in nature can help you reconnect with the world around you and find a sense of purpose and meaning in your life. Whether you're volunteering at a local park, hiking a new trail, or simply appreciating the beauty of a flower, nature can remind you of the wonder and magic of life.
4. Nature Can Help Build Resilience
Recovery requires resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. Spending time in nature can help build resilience by giving you a sense of perspective and reminding you of your own strength. Whether you're facing a difficult moment or a major life transition, nature can help you find the courage and determination to keep going.
In my own life, I have found that spending time in nature has been an essential part of my recovery journey. Whether I'm hiking in the mountains, kayaking on a lake, or simply sitting in my backyard, I know that nature has a way of renewing my spirit and helping me stay focused on my goals. If you're struggling with addiction or disordered eating or mental health disorders , I encourage you to explore the healing power of nature and see how it can help you on your own recovery journey.
If you have tried everything and can not seem to move forward on your own, a recovery coach or companion may be able to provide the motivation and accountability to help you achieve what you previously thought was impossible. Reach out and we will help you understand the resources that are available to you and guide you through the difficult process of recovering from substance use, disordered eating, and other mental health disorders.
Disclaimer: Recovery Frameworks offers a non-clinical support service. The services and programs provided by Recovery Frameworks do not include medical advice, including diagnoses, medical care, or clinical treatment. Services should only be used in conjunction with the guidance and care of your doctors, therapists, consultants, and/or providers in part of your treatment team.