Spring Has Sprung: Outdoor Exercise and Recovery
Staying inactive for long periods can be harmful to an individual’s mental and physical health. Poor mental health can make an individual more susceptible to living a lower quality of life. Boredom can also increase one’s risk of enduring the three stages of relapse. However, staying active on a daily basis is critical for exercise and recovery. Engaging in physical activity is good for one’s overall well-being. Fortunately, Spring has sprung with pleasant temperatures in Hawaii. Now may be a good time to break down holistic outdoor activities at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab for exercise and recovery.
The Health Risks That Come From Living a Sedentary Lifestyle
According to the Effective Health Care Program: Powered by the Evidence-based Practice Centers, living a lifestyle with little to no exercise can be referred to as a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting and lying around for long periods can contribute to low endurance, weight gain, weaker bones, a poor immune system, and inflammation. Not getting enough daily exercise can put one at risk of developing chronic diseases or premature death. Getting some exercise is better than no physical activity. Adults should get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. Teens should get about an hour of exercise per day. The more sedentary you are, the higher your health risks are for experiencing problems with:
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Elevated blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Stroke
- Metabolic syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer
- Osteoporosis
- Depression
- Anxiety
Boredom and the Three Stages of Relapse
Early recovery typically requires an individual with substance use disorder (SUD) or a dual diagnosis to make several positive changes to their lifestyle. However, when an individual creates a strong foundation and develops a structured routine, the excitement dwindles, and boredom comes to the surface. If an individual fails to develop a strong support system, they may become more vulnerable to the three stages of relapse: emotional, mental, and physical.
Even though one with SUD may remember the last time they used drugs or alcohol, their behaviors may be setting them up for relapse in the future. As they begin to fixate on the substance, their cravings may become more difficult to ward off. It is also common for one in recovery to gradually bend the rules in recovery. As this occurs, one may become more vulnerable to a physical relapse. Therefore, outdoor exercise and recovery are critical to sustaining lasting sobriety.
What Is Substance Withdrawal?
When an individual attempts to discontinue engaging in substance use, they may be met with withdrawal symptoms. The severity of withdrawal is based on the substance used and the length of usage. Substance cravings can be especially problematic during active addiction, difficult to manage during treatment, and continuous in recovery. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.
Aside from anxiety, muscle tension, aches, agitation, and irritability, insomnia can be challenging to overcome. Insomnia is a sleep disorder that prevents one from getting an adequate amount of rest. Poor sleep quality can lead to intense fatigue, mood disturbance, forgetfulness, and problems focusing. The effects of insomnia can make completing daily tasks challenging, leading to increased stress and dependency. Therefore, detoxing at home is frowned upon by Exclusive Hawaii Rehab’s dedicated healthcare team.
Enhancing Quality of Sleep Through Physical Activity
Knowing that sleep irregularities are common for those facing challenges with intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms, physical activity can help. A wide body of research has long been associated with better sleep conditions. Evidence supports the efficacy of physical activity as an alternative treatment for disturbed sleep patterns. Two studies with passos and colleague participants discovered that moderate but not high-intensity aerobic exercise improved sleep conditions in comparison to baseline sleep for adults. While physical activity may not be a viable standalone therapy, it can be a beneficial adjunct therapy as it’s a beneficial practice for better daytime functioning. Therefore, good sleep quality promotes improved daytime performance, reduced stress, and relapse prevention.
Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Get Outdoors for Exercise and Recovery
Even in Hawaii, it can be tough to adapt to the seasonal change. Summer temperatures typically range from 85 degrees and higher, then drop in the 70s in the Winter and Spring. Therefore, Spring in Hawaii is the ideal time to get outdoors for exercise and recovery, as the weather is not too hot. There are fewer tourists in early Spring as there are milder temperatures and less humidity.
Therefore, Hawaii is less crowded, making for a more peaceful environment for exercise and recovery. Clients at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab enjoy hiking in Hawaii’s botanical gardens and nature reserves, as Spring has vibrant blooms and luscious landscapes, which are perfect for hiking. Spring in Hawaii offers ideal surfing conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers. This time of year is also perfect for whale watching on the Hawaiian shores.
What Is Holistic Healing?
Although standard treatment options can ease psychiatric symptoms, holistic care can address an individual’s emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Practicing holistic healing can deliver a whole-person approach to care. Holistic therapy can support the body’s ability to heal naturally and enhance one’s self-awareness. Different modalities can support physical detoxification, enhance coping mechanisms, and reduce stress for relapse prevention. Individuals at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab benefit from combining natural healing with complementary treatment for dual support.
The Value of Nature-Based Therapies for Mental Health
Mental health issues are commonly linked with increased unscheduled care, high economic and social costs, lower quality of life, and increased mortality. However, nature-based interventions (NBIs) have supported individuals in engaging with nature in a structured way. Asset-based solutions help improve mental health for community-based individuals. Both controlled and uncontrolled studies have highlighted the efficacy of NBIs such as green exercise and nature-based therapy for improving mental health outcomes in adults with pre-existing psychiatric disorders.
The Association Between Substance Use Disorder and Social Isolation
It is common for those with active addiction to develop co-occurring depression. Those with severe SUD may put their desired substance above all else. When this happens, the individual may throw away opportunities to make new connections and withdraw from friends or family to abuse harmful substances. This can make it more difficult to discontinue engaging in substance use, as one may lack the support to do so. Treatment and recovery typically require one with SUD or a dual diagnosis to make various lifestyle changes.
For example, one may choose to leave their job, which does not foster a sober working environment. Perhaps an individual may move away from the bar or club scene to a new town with limited substance exposure. It is also critical for one to remove toxic friendships with those who continue to abuse drugs or alcohol. As a result, individuals with SUD commonly feel isolated from society if they do not seek proper support.
Strengthening Connections: The Social Aspects of Exercise and Recovery
Based on the aforementioned Elsevier study, physical activity with peers reduced social isolation and positively impacted those with depression and anxiety by promoting a better mood and a greater sense of hope. Relaxing nature-based therapies such as mindfulness, forest bathing, and wilderness therapy have also been demonstrated to support one’s well-being.
Healing services at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab provide peer support for shared understanding, continuous growth, and an amplified sense of unity for stronger connections and support. Groups with peers are usually hosted outside, in the beautiful scenery. Sometimes, there are whales. Clients at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab gain a stronger support network with access to guidance. Aftercare services that can help strengthen connections and provide opportunities for outdoor exercise and recovery include:
- Alumni programs and events
- Sober living communities
- Group therapy
- Sober companionship
Benefits of Engaging in Physical Activity for Good Mental Health
According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (OASH), everyone has their own way to decompress from life’s daily stressors. Doing so recharges their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, even if they are not conscious of it. However, some individuals become dependent on negative behaviors to cope, such as being promiscuous, engaging in substance use, developing irregular eating habits, or more.
Knowing that mental and physical health are closely interconnected, practicing physical activity can promote a healthy way of thinking and a positive mindset. Learning how to manage daily stressors and getting screened for mental health conditions at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab are good preventative practices. Research also indicates that physical activity can help one learn problem-solving techniques and gain emotion regulation for reduced mental health symptoms and improved cognitive function. Exercise can increase one’s life span and improve one’s quality of life.
Different Types of Holistic Modalities for Outdoor Healing in the Springtime
Embracing the outdoors in the Springtime can boost an individual’s mood. Doing so can help one safely overcome addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Natural exposure to sunlight can improve one’s vitamin D and energy levels to maintain a healthy recovery. Outdoor exercise and recovery are completely natural and free with little to no side effects. One may be quick to assume that holistic care is nothing more than mindfulness and meditation. However, there is an array of holistic methods used today for stress management, enhanced mental health, and relapse prevention. Different types of holistic healing options for outdoor healing in the Springtime include:
- Yoga with friends at a park
- Eating fresh fruits and vegetables at a picnic
- Nature walks at local trails
- Sunbathing in the outdoors
- Herbal healing with fresh herbs
- Gardening outdoors
- Sound therapy with healing instruments at the beach
- Art therapy in the sun painting
- Energy healing with nature
- Breathwork with fresh Spring air
Why Choose Exclusive Hawaii Rehab for Exercise and Recovery?
Unlike most alcohol and drug rehab programs, Exclusive Hawaii Rehab focuses on our clients’ well-being, not just their addiction. Our expert team of professionals knows that our clients are far more than their condition itself. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab’s care team treats each individual as the whole person they are. Our compassionate team is happy to explore and resolve the underlying causes of each client’s drug or alcohol addiction, eating disorders, or mental health condition. We work to help clarify each individual’s unique vision and goals to support them as they walk their path to safe healing. Our compassionate team of behavioral health experts helps our clients start their incredible journey as seamlessly as possible. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab’s compassionate team:
- Welcomes clients wholeheartedly
- Partners together
- Uncovers and resolves the root cause of their client’s condition
- Helps individuals gain the tools to overcome addiction
- Encourages empowerment so our clients are free to live their lives
Breaking Down Holistic Activities at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab for Exercise and Recovery
Hawaiian culture places a strong emphasis on interconnectedness, spirituality, and healing. Our rehab center uses a culturally aware approach to addiction intervention. This ensures that individuals receive the support they need while honoring their heritage and personal beliefs. By incorporating Hawaiian traditions into treatment, Exclusive Hawaii Rehab fosters a holistic healing environment that aligns with the cultural values of the community.
The team at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab truly cares for our clients. Our program requires our clients to dive deep into their own emotions, thoughts, and beliefs. Throughout this journey, they are cared for by compassionate professionals who dedicate themselves to helping others realize their potential for a happy, fulfilling life. Healing at the core root level, they don’t do treatment, they do the healing. Our naturopathic doctor, who is the medical director, strives to teach individuals how to heal at the cellular level. Holistic therapies at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab include:
- Mindfulness therapy
- Yoga
- Breathwork
- Meditation
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Energy healing
- Essential oils
- Mindfulness
- Sound bath therapy
- Music therapy
- Horticulture therapy
- Surf therapy
How Exclusive Hawaii Rehab Helps Individuals Dial in Their Nutritional Needs for Exercise and Recovery
Drug and alcohol abuse for a prolonged period can damage an individual’s physical and mental health. Lack of proper nutrition makes it harder for the body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals. Individuals with SUD, depression, or co-occurring eating disorders such as avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, pica, or rumination disorder may benefit from Exclusive Hawaii Rehabs’ nutritional coaching. The treatment for eating disorders also involves psychoeducation to help clients build healthier relationships with food. Clinicians at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab are licensed to provide primary treatment. Every treatment plan is fully personalized to the preferences and needs of each individual, as cultivating a healthier, more active lifestyle goes hand-in-hand.
Exercise and Recovery Foster a Sense of Achievement in Recovery
Exclusive Hawaii Rehab encourages clients to celebrate their goal achievements and other successes post-rehab. Regular exercise at our rehab center helps boost our clients’ self-esteem. Making physical progress can help one meet certain milestones and achieve one’s goals. Staying committed to daily exercise for recovery can help build dedication and accountability. When exercise is incorporated into one’s daily routine, it helps the individual develop a more structured lifestyle, providing a stronger foundation.
Exercise and recovery can help alleviate unnecessary stress, promoting emotional regulation. Understanding that exercise and recovery foster a greater sense of achievement, increased motivation helps one maintain healthy healing. Having a greater sense of achievement also helps foster personal growth, leading to increased physical and mental strength. A fostered sense of achievement can help build resilience to effectively recover from a relapse.
The Importance of Staying Active for Exercise and Recovery
Understanding that both early and late recovery can come with several different obstacles, maintaining physical activity is essential to keep a healthier lifestyle. Not everyone finds it easy to maintain physical activity. Unfortunate events and daily stressors can interfere with one’s ability to balance self-care with life’s priorities. However, following a few strategies in combination with self-care can help one stay on track to an active lifestyle for exercise and recovery. Tips to remain on course with physical activity include:
- Eating healthy
- Getting an adequate amount of rest
- Spending time with others who enjoy sober activities
- Setting achievable goals
- Developing a structured routine
- Tracking progress
- Finding a workout buddy
- Staying positive
- Celebrating recovery milestones
Our deeply caring medical and wellness team at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab works together to create a customized treatment plan that treats the person, not the addiction. We collaborate with you to ensure you have the best chance possible to truly heal. Our program is designed to be a clear roadmap to help you examine your inner world and emerge for complete transformation. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab’s holistic approach is designed to restore balance and empower people struggling with alcoholism, drug abuse, eating disorders, and other co-occurring mental health disorders. Our team strives to help you heal the core of your addiction in a safe and luxurious setting. Call us at (808) 775-0200 for improved exercise and recovery.