Everyone needs time to relax and unwind, both alone and with friends and family. For many people, summer is the perfect time to enjoy outside activities, visit new places, and try new things. Whether you are new to recovery from drugs or alcohol or have years of sobriety, engaging in activities and experiences that bring you joy and happiness will improve your health and well-being. The best part is that when you’re sober, you can fully appreciate an experience with a clear mind and healthy body.
The Importance of Spending Time Outdoors
Even spending a short time outside in the fresh air every day has many benefits. Fresh air makes you feel better because oxygen affects the amount of serotonin your body produces. Serotonin is the brain’s neurotransmitter that regulates mood, memory, emotions, and social behavior.
Breathing fresh air also helps:
- Reduce stress
- Improve sleep
- Increase Vitamin D
- Promote physical activity
- Slow the aging process
If you’re ready to get outside this summer and feel positive about your recovery, consider the following activities:
1- Spend Time On or In the Water
Having access to a body of water, such as an ocean, river, creek, or lake, opens the possibility of many different water activities for you to explore.
- Go swimming
- Learn how to surf, snorkel, or scuba dive
- Go canoeing or kayaking
- Try surf-sailing or paddleboarding
- Go river rafting
- Wade in a creek
- Relax on a float
2- Explore Your Community
Summer is full of special outdoor attractions and festivals. Make a list of those in your community that you want to attend. Include many different venues, such as amusement parks, street festivals, art galleries, fairs, outdoor concerts and movies, and museums. Make sure to include any festivals and fairs traveling through and culinary experiences like fresh farmer’s markets and ice cream festivals.
3- Join or Put Together a Sober Sports Team
Many communities offer adult sports leagues for people of all skill levels to join. You may even find that your community has a sober sports team, but if not, start one yourself. Enjoy sports like volleyball, softball, and basketball with sober or supportive friends.
4- Host a Summer Barbecue or Pool Party
Host your own alcohol-free party. You can get out the grill, have different types of food, or have everyone bring a potluck meal. Invite your family and friends. Let them know ahead the gathering will be an alcohol and drug-free event. Have a variety of soft drinks, juice, water, coffee, and tea. Add some delicious summer mocktails to the drink choices. Play games, put up an outdoor TV for movie night, or dance the night away.
5- Volunteer
Having sober fun is about finding things that stimulate and make your brain happy. Volunteering is a great way to do both. When you volunteer your time, you will feel good, give back to your community, and meet new people. Your choice of where to volunteer is up to you. Homeless shelters, children’s charities, senior care homes, and animal shelters are some of the places needing volunteers. If you love being out in nature, volunteer to clean up a park or beach. Tutor a child or adult that needs help with reading or life skills.
6- Explore Natural Resources
Have an outdoor adventure while exploring natural resources in your area. Visit local parks and explore new trails. Whether you are hiking, biking or camping, you are sure to view the magnificent scenery and natural wildlife. For example, in Papago Park, in Arizona, you can see the famous Hole-in-the-Rock; in Usery Mountain Regional Park, you can travel along the famous Pass Mountain Trail.
7- Take up Photography
Being outdoors with your camera gives you the opportunity to see things you may have never noticed. It could be a flower, a bug, the way the sun shines on the water. Plan day trips where you can use your camera to investigate your surroundings.
A Few More Ways to Have a Great Sober Summer
Here are a few more ways to enjoy a sober summer:
- Plant a garden
- Relax outside with your favorite book or playlist
- Enjoy a favorite hobby or take up a new one
- Listen to a favorite podcast while lying on the beach or at the pool
- Go horseback riding, bowling, or rent an electric bike
- Gather friends and play a kid’s game together, such as miniature golf, laser tag, or riding go-carts
Do You Need Help?
When you are sober, you see things clearer. You have a different perspective. You are healthier, happier, and can enjoy life. If you or a loved one struggles with addiction to drugs or alcohol, help is available. You are not alone. Call and speak to a professional at Canyon Vista Recovery Center in Mesa, Arizona. We will answer your questions and set your mind at ease. Get the help you need to begin your journey to recovery.
