We know the concept of having fun and being sober might sound odd. Many of us once believed that the two didn’t go hand in hand, but then again, we weren’t in recovery at the time.
What we’ve found over the years of being substance-free is that life is actually more enjoyable now that we’re sober. Being able to remember what happened the night before is actually more rewarding than you would think. Knowing that you didn’t embarrass yourself or hurt those that you love is a great feeling.
Here are some ways you can have fun while remaining sober.
#1 – Enjoy the Great Outdoors
There’s something therapeutic about spending time outdoors. The fresh air, warm sunshine and sounds of people having a good time does something to the soul. Get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature.
You can enjoy the local public gardens by your home or head to the zoo to get a rush looking at cute animals. The best part is that you can do this as a group, so be sure to invite all your friends to join in the fun.
Aside from just enjoying the great outdoors, you can get involved with nature as well. Plant a garden in your backyard and nurture the plants. If you aren’t naturally inclined to have a green thumb, take time learning about the plants. You can even start with something easy like succulents, and allow your gardening skills to blossom over time.
#2 – Learn Something New
There is so much to learn these days. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at something new and exciting, now is your chance. Take up that new language you’ve always dreamt of learning. Or, brush up on a new skill that will bring you joy.
Open up your computer and take some online courses. Better yet, you might be able to find the information you need for free on YouTube. There is also a wealth of webinars, podcasts and seminars held online so you can learn in your pajamas.
You can also look for local groups of people interested in the same things. For example, if you are interested in woodworking, why not look for some local events where you can meet like-minded people. If knitting is your thing, check with the local community center to see if there is a group that meets.
If you can’t find a group tailored to your hobby, why not start one of your own?
#3 – Get Physical
Physical activity is a great way to care for your mind, body and spirit at the same time. If the weather isn’t nice in your area, you can always join your local YMCA or a gym. Get in there as often as you can and work your body until you sweat.
It will feel good and bring you a lot of pleasure as well. You might even like taking one of the group classes like Pilates or Zumba. Being a part of a class gives you the opportunity to mingle with other people and you might make some new friends.
If the weather is pleasant where you live, get outside for a walk or run. You’ve probably saved up enough money by now to invest in a new bike or a good pair of running shoes. Avoiding drugs and alcohol tends to leave you with a little extra cash each month that can be invested in your health and enjoyment.
To stay social, you could join up with a local sports team or league. Many sober people who’ve taken the leap to get involved in strenuous activity find it to be beneficial for their recovery.
#4 – Volunteer
Thinking about others can be a lot of fun and it will also help keep you sober. The less you are thinking about yourself, the less likely you are to dwell on problems or feel stressed. Put your time or energy into a cause that means something to you. It doesn’t have to be involved with recovery, although there are plenty of opportunities there as well.
Opt to care for a local park by cleaning up trash, visit some elderly patients at a nursing home or volunteer to do kid’s story time at the local library. Whatever you decide on, you’ll feel better cheering someone else up and you might even make a few new friends along the way.
#5 – Throw a Party
Just because you don’t drink or use drugs anymore, doesn’t mean you can’t have a party. Be the host so you can control who is coming and to ensure it remains a sober environment.
Invite your friends from recovery, safe family or maybe even some co-workers. Have everyone bring something yummy to eat and plan some amazing party games. If the weather is nice, you can opt instead to have a backyard barbecue. Roast some s’mores over the fire and kick back with your feet up.
You don’t need a reason to have a party – no one will care why they are coming!
#6 – Head Out for a Day with Friends
Spending a day with friends is the perfect way to have a little fun. It won’t even matter what you choose to do; you can have fun doing nothing at all.
Make an entire day of it. Start with a coffee at the local café, then head out for some shopping at the mall. From there you can enjoy lunch at your favorite restaurant and head out bowling or to play miniature golf. After grabbing some dinner, you can catch the latest movie at the cinema. Don’t forget to splurge on popcorn and soda!
At the end of the day, you’ll realize how good friends can make a day truly magical. Thankfully, you’ve most likely made some new ones since you’ve gotten sober.
#7 – Travel
Take some of the money you would’ve blown on drugs and alcohol and head out for sightseeing adventures. Make a list of all the places you’ve wanted to see and then get out there and live life. Whether you want to stay in the states and enjoy a road trip or you are ready to travel abroad, there are plenty of adventures available.
Take some friends or loved ones with you to maximize the potential for fun.
In the End
The possibilities to what you can do now that you are sober are simply endless. Whether it’s the common everyday activity or something larger, you can make everything into a real adventure. Your passion for life will continue to grow every day that you remain sober. As you continue having fun, you might even wonder what you ever saw in drugs and alcohol anyway.
Contact Clearbrook Today
If you or someone you know and love is currently struggling with substance abuse, we can help.
With 45 years of experience in treating alcoholism and chemical dependency, Clearbrook Treatment Centers is able to offer you the necessary tools in achieving lasting recovery.
If you are tired of being a slave to your addiction, and want to see what it’s like to be sober, contact our Admissions Specialists today.
