When you abuse drugs or alcohol, they go straight to the brain’s reward system. This is why they feel so good. Your brain is hardwired to want to repeat the activities that make it feel good, so it becomes fixated on getting that next high. As a result, you find yourself chasing the same high without worrying about the negative consequences.
As you enter recovery, the brain needs time to heal. Unfortunately, it’s not producing dopamine on its own because it’s waiting for the drugs or alcohol to supply it. It has been hijacked. As a result, people in recovery often end up going through a period where they don’t get pleasure from normal activities. This is called anhedonia.
While there are many ways to work through these lows, one of the strategies we’re going to focus on today is endorphin-boosting activities. These activities naturally increase dopamine in the brain and support a life of recovery.
Physical Exercise
Exercise pumps up your endorphins – dopamine, serotonin and adrenaline. Studies show that moderate to intense physical activity stimulates this release and aids in stress relief. This is where the term “runner’s high” comes from. So, find an activity that you love – team sports, yoga, biking – and get moving!
Meditation
Like exercise, meditation releases endorphins while stimulating dopamine, serotonin and melatonin. Even just 10 minutes of meditation each day can have huge rewards for your mental health and well-being. Plus, this gives you time to reflect on your life and the progress you’ve made during addiction treatment in Agoura Hills, California.
Aromatherapy
When you inhale essential oils, the scent molecules travel from the olfactory nerves and directly to the brain. This is why many people experience stress relief from smelling essential oils like lavender and vanilla. You can even combine aromatherapy with other endorphin-boosting activities like meditation, mindfulness or yoga.
Volunteering
Volunteering your time and talents is a wonderful way to create those warm and fuzzy feelings that you’re longing for – otherwise known as the “helper’s high.” It may take time to find your niche, but don’t give up. Research continually shows that people who donate their time have better mental health than those who don’t. And hopefully, you can find your sense of purpose by volunteering.
Laughing
When you’re going through a low point in your recovery, it’s hard to find things to laugh about. But a bit of perspective may help. Laughing relieves tension, lifts the spirits and triggers the release of endorphins. So, turn on your favorite comedy TV show or movie, watch a stand-up comedian, read some jokes, etc. At the very least, smile! Forcing a smile may even boost your mood and happiness!
If you’re new to recovery, finding things that give you pleasure and happiness can be difficult. Things won’t be this way forever – your brain is simply healing and needs to balance its chemistry. This will come with time. In the meantime, start finding activities that make you feel good. They’ll pass the time, serve as a distraction, and eventually give you a natural high.
