One may ask, “how does an exercise program benefit the recovery process?” Research has shown that a regular fitness program doesn’t just benefit the body; it also paves the way for a healthier mind. Mental health, cognitive function, and even mood are all improved by incorporating an exercise routine. Long term sobriety is supported when the individual has both a healthy mind and a healthy body.Our clients participate in fitness instruction up to five times weekly. By the time they are ready to leave our program, they will have experienced the positive benefits of fitness in their daily lives. Additionally, our staff works with each client to continue to include regular exercise into their lives as part of their discharge and continuing care plan.
All of our fitness programs were developed using an evidence-based approach to design fitness programs for our clients in residential programs at The Arbor and Arbor Extended Care. Our exercise programs are designed to build strength, flexibility, stamina, coordination, balance and improved energy levels. Clinicians and trainers work with each client to develop a personalized fitness program as part of their treatment plan.
It’s not uncommon for people in addiction to neglect aspects of their life. Physical health is one of the more common areas subjected to neglect. Exercise is part of our plan to restore clients to good health. Addiction also interferes with the mind-body connection that leads to wellness. This is why regular exercise is an important part of the recovery process. There are four primary benefits to regular exercise during addiction treatment:
In addition to swimming pools at each of our men’s and women’s houses, there are a variety of fitness options available to residents. Guests at The Arbor enjoy instructor-led fitness classes 3 times a week for weight training and 2 times per week for yoga. Available recreational activities include: basketball, volleyball, as well as runs or walks on our 67 acre, Texas Hill Country ranch.
Our Extended Care Programs is proud to offer CrossFit training. CrossFit has become a wildly popular exercise regime, thanks to its relatively fast results. Every workout builds muscle and stamina and improves endurance as well as overall fitness levels. One of the hallmarks of Crossfit training is how efficiently it builds muscle. CrossFit enthusiasts feel healthier and more confident in themselves sooner than with a traditional weight lifting program.Meditation
One of the newer therapies introduced into substance abuse rehab is meditation. Meditation has proven helpful as part of an addiction treatment program as it gives addicts something else to focus on other than obtaining drugs. It helps people cope with the stresses that might cause them to relapse and resume drug use. When combined with other therapies, meditation can shorten the time that is necessary for other therapies to become effective.
The disease of addiction takes it toll on the individual’s mind, spirit, relationships and body. The journey to sobriety is a journey towards good health. The effects of nutrition and a healthy diet on the body is well known. What is often not considered is that proper nutrition is an important part of the healing process of addiction treatment.