What Sobriety has Taught me About Fitness
When people think about sobriety, they often associate it with giving up alcohol or drugs. However, sobriety is much more than just abstaining from substances. It's a way of life that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional wellness. One aspect of sobriety that many people don't consider is how it can impact their fitness journey. In this I'll share what sobriety has taught me about fitness and how it has transformed my approach to health and wellness.
Consistency is key:
In sobriety, I learned that consistency is key when it comes to fitness. When I was using drugs or alcohol, my fitness routine was erratic at best. Some weeks I would work out every day, while other weeks I wouldn't work out at all. However, in sobriety, I learned that consistency is crucial if I want to achieve my fitness goals. I started to make a habit of working out at the same time every day, and I made sure to stick to my routine even on days when I didn't feel like it. By prioritizing consistency, I was able to make steady progress and see real results in my fitness journey.
Mind-body connection:
Sobriety also taught me about the mind-body connection. Before I got sober, I didn't pay much attention to how my body felt during and after workouts. However, in sobriety, I started to become more attuned to my body and its needs. I learned that when I was stressed or anxious, my workouts suffered. On the other hand, when I took care of my mental health, my physical health improved as well. I started to incorporate mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation into my fitness routine, which helped me connect with my body on a deeper level. By prioritizing the mind-body connection, I was able to take better care of myself both physically and mentally.
Fitness is a form of self-care:
In sobriety, I also learned that fitness is a form of self-care. Before I got sober, I often neglected my health and well-being. However, in sobriety, I realized that taking care of myself should be a top priority. I started to view fitness as a way to show myself love and care. When I prioritized my fitness routine, I felt better both physically and mentally. Exercise became a way for me to release stress, clear my mind, and boost my mood. By making fitness a form of self-care, I was able to take better care of myself and stay sober.
Progress over perfection:
Lastly, sobriety taught me that progress is more important than perfection. Before I got sober, I was a perfectionist. I would beat myself up if I missed a workout or didn't hit a certain goal. However, in sobriety, I learned that every small step forward is progress. I started to celebrate my wins, no matter how small they were. This mindset shift helped me stay motivated and focused on my fitness journey. Instead of striving for perfection, I focused on making progress and improving a little bit every day.
Sobriety has taught me that fitness is much more than just physical health. By prioritizing consistency, the mind-body connection, self-care, and progress over perfection, I was able to transform my approach to fitness and achieve my goals. These lessons can be applied to anyone, whether you're in recovery or not, to help you approach fitness in a more holistic and meaningful way.
