When coming out of the cycle of addiction, it’s common for people to struggle with finding ways to have fun. So much time was tied up in substance misuse or thinking about it, and it makes it hard to recall the activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable.
Idle hands can increase risk of relapse, so it’s important to find ways to stay busy and have fun in recovery. And even if you’re uncertain where to start, consider this a fresh start and experiment with some fun, sober activities.
5 Fun Sober Activities
Healthy activities can help people rediscover parts of themselves and learn something new. Below, you can find a list of activities that can help provide a healthy distraction and help you better connect with others and yourself.
Enroll in a course
Today, you can find a variety of classes online or in-person. Whether returning to school or for your own enjoyment, enrolling in a course can expand your knowledge and bring fulfillment. You can even access career skill-building courses online or at junior college campuses. These can help develop an attractive resume and land a new job or change careers.
But not all courses are professional or academic. Consider an Improv class at the local comedy club, a new language, or creative writing. With the wide number of courses available in our community and fingertips, there is something for everyone.
Help your community
Helping others can stimulate those feel-good hormones that promote happiness. Volunteering is a good way to get out of the house, meet new people, and give back to the community.
There are a number of volunteer opportunities that match people’s interest. Nature preserves, animal shelters, food pantries, and shelters need ongoing help and rely on the service of their volunteers. If unsure what’s available in the area, a quick Google search can get you started.
Take a trip
Hit the road and see the world with fresh eyes. Getting out of town can do wonders and help refresh the mind. Whether a week, weekend, or day, taking in attractions and scenery can be a great experience.
If leaving town is not a possibility, take a daytime journey in your own community. Lots of times we take where we live for granted and miss out on the opportunities right under our noses. Maybe it’s a park, a hiking trail, or museum. Take a day trip in your community and see all it has to offer with a fresh, new perspective.
Get creative
Creative practice is known to help name emotions, gain a new perspective, and relieve stress. And if you think you are not an artist… You don’t need to be.
Creative practice is whatever suits you. Whether that is painting, cooking, gardening, or singing, creativity can help bring a deeper connection to yourself and the world. If you feel stuck, you can find a variety of art classes in the community and this not only can get you in touch with your creative side but help meet new people.
Pick up a book
Enjoying the quiet, simple things in life can be a challenge, but learning how to cope with alone time is an important part of sobriety. Reading a book is a good way to fill the time when alone.
Pick up a library card and browse the shelves or dust off a book at home. Getting lost in a story is a great way to pass the time.
Recovery and Fun at Pura Vida
At Pura Vida, we understand the struggle and complexity of addiction and we provide evidence-based care, including recreational therapy.
Fun while sober is possible, and we help men and women rediscover ways to have fun and socialize with others without the use of drugs or alcohol. Activities include rock-climbing, hiking, wake boarding, and boating. “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy” and we help people play in healthy ways.
If you would like to learn more about our outpatient drug and alcohol treatment program, reach out by phone or online. We can provide a pre-admission screening and help you start your path to recovery.
