Did you know that underage drinking is one of the most serious substance use issues in the United States? Adolescents are more likely to binge drink than adults, and also tend to be more susceptible to peer pressure. Substance use and addiction are widespread issues that affect people at many ages and levels of society. Recovery is an ongoing journey that requires finding healthy and fun ways to enjoy life without drugs or alcohol. The good news is that there are plenty of local sober-friendly activities that you can enjoy on your own or with family and friends. The social aspect of participating in sober activities is a great way to maintain friendships, find new ones, and build a community of supportive, like-minded individuals who are committed to recovery.
The Columbus Park of Roses is one of the largest public rose gardens in the United States. Spanning 13 acres, the park is divided into five different gardens, including a formal rose garden with an observation tower you might expect to see at an estate, an herb garden, and an arboretum with over a hundred different varieties of trees. Although it’s ideal to visit the garden in the summer months when the roses are in full bloom, the park is beautiful year round, with the changing colors of the leaves to look forward to in Autumn, and acres of pristine snow to admire in the winter.
Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to regulate your nervous system, and a trip to the Columbus Park of Roses is a great opportunity to spend time surrounded by natural beauty. Soak in the sunshine while you meander through the gardens with friends and family, or spend a meditative morning or afternoon in solitude. The park is an invaluable resource for locals and tourists alike, as admission is free of charge. Scheduling quality time to center and rebalance yourself is a cornerstone of recovery, and a visit to the park is another way to do that, even if you already have a yoga or meditation practice.
Why Sober Activities Are Crucial To Your Recovery
Recovery is all about committing to a healthy lifestyle and making positive choices in addition to staying sober. It can be challenging to find activities that are both enjoyable and free from substances or triggering environments when you’re at the beginning of your recovery journey, which is why it’s important to stay connected to a strong recovery support system.
Whether you’ve just completed a residential program or are just beginning to seek professional help, engaging in sober activities can help reduce the risk of relapse and introduce fun and meaningful moments to look forward to every week. Participating in activities like sports, exercise, art, music, or even just spending time in nature can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, and help to create a new, healthy routine. Sober activities also offer a chance to build new relationships and connections with others who are also committed to living a healthy, sober lifestyle and are an important part of any recovery plan.
Enjoying Sober Activities
Participating in social activities without using drugs or alcohol to feel relaxed or “on” may seem like a daunting task, especially in the early stages of recovery. Without taking a substance to avoid or mask your emotions, you’ll be showing up as yourself, with all of the anxieties and fears that can come with that.
Here are a few tips for enjoying sober activities:
#1 Prepare for your trip
It’s a good idea to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks with you, especially if you may be around people who are not sober. Research the area ahead of time so you feel more comfortable with your surroundings.
#2 Practice Mindfulness
Sober activities are a great way to practice being in the present moment and noticing when certain environments or interactions feel triggering to you. From coming back to your breath to being aware of how you’re feeling, sober activities are a good way to use the tools you’ve been cultivating on your recovery journey.
#3 Surround Yourself With Supportive People
Participating in sober activities with friends from a treatment program or 12-step group is a great way to keep yourself on track. When you’re with other people that are also committed to their recovery goals, it’s easier to feel excited about and supported in your own recovery.
Recovery Center Near Columbus Park of Roses
If you are in or near Columbus Ohio, Ethan Crossing Columbus is just nearby. Ethan Crossing is the premier addiction treatment center in Columbus and offers a variety of tailored addiction treatment options that can help you recover. Driving directions to Ethan Crossing can be found here or on the map below.