Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s an act of love and an important part of your recovery and long-term sobriety. Practicing self-care means nurturing your whole self – mind, body and spirit. It’s about taking care of your emotions and practicing self-compassion on a daily basis.

For many people in recovery, self-care needs to be learned or relearned – but it is possible. You can start with a few of these proven and straightforward strategies:

• Wake up and move. Carving out some time in the morning to take a walk or stretch or practice yoga poses is the perfect way to set the tone for a positive day ahead.
• Make time to journal. This is a simple yet powerful self-care ritual and how you do it is really up to you. Write down your daily goals or what you’re most grateful for or a positive affirmation –whatever helps you clear the head clutter and feel good about you.
• Carve out quiet time. This could be as simple as devoting 10 minutes per day to meditation. Other ideas: Go on a technology diet and shut down that smartphone or just take time to breath. Deep breathing is a great go-to when you need to relax or ease any negative emotions standing in the way of the healing process.
• Set boundaries. Your recovery comes first, so don’t feel guilty if you have to set boundaries and say “no” sometimes. Ask yourself what’s most important for your recovery and your own well-being and prioritize those activities first.
• Hone in on your senses. By making an effort to tap into your sight, smell, taste, touch and hearing, you can work to rejuvenate your mind and body. Give it a whirl: Light some scented candles and relax in a warm bubble bath or cue your favorite music as you sip your morning tea or coffee.
• Put spirituality into practice: Spirituality can have a profound impact on your recovery. It’s been known to help people feel less anxious and more optimistic and it has even been linked to fewer cravings and relapses. You don’t have to be religious; spirituality is about believing in the power of something bigger than yourself and then taking time to connect to the amazing world around you.

Making a Spiritual Connection at Makana Path Makana means “gift,” and our Intensive Healing Program can help you get the gift of healing from within, allowing you to reconnect with your most authentic self as well as your Higher Power, whatever that Higher Power may be. For more information about how we can help your recovery, call today: 866-905-4550.