For those in recovery, sober hobbies are a wonderful way to enrich the mind and connect with others. Part of addiction treatment is finding ways to pass the time in a way that reduces stress and encourages you to stay sober. Sober hobbies fit this role nicely, giving alumni and those still in treatment a healthy outlet for their feelings and emotions.
At Driftwood Recovery, we, too, recognize the importance of sober hobbies. As a result, we work with our clients to help them discover their inner strengths and interests. These factors, along with therapies like art therapy and therapeutic recreation, can help clients choose the right hobbies. However, before we dive into some commonly chosen sober hobbies, we must first understand why hobbies are so important for mental health.
The Importance of Sober Hobbies
Hobbies allow individuals to express themselves productively and healthily. Studies show that they improve mental and physical health. For those in recovery, sober hobbies can play a bigger role than just being enjoyable. Sober hobbies force alumni to choose what is more important to them. Do they want to be alone and abuse substances, or do they want to enjoy themselves safely with their friends?
Often, alumni will decide that their money is better spent on gear to further enjoy their hobby than it is on substances. Sober hobbies also take up the time that could be spent in places with common addiction triggers. After all, alumni don’t have time to go to a bar when they have a white water rafting trip scheduled!
Sober hobbies also provide opportunities for companionship and accountability. Many hobbies are unsafe to engage in while under the influence, and your sober support network will be sure to call you out on it if you try. This safety network and oversight help alumni remain in recovery and resist common triggers that can result in a relapse.
The sober hobbies available are too numerous to mention, but here are some examples of hobbies typically enjoyed by people in recovery.
#1. Outdoor Sober Hobbies
Going outside is a wonderful way to promote continued recovery. It’s well known that nature has a profound healing effect on the mind and body, so choosing an outdoor activity can assist in physical, spiritual, and mental health. Simply walking through established trails requires little more than proper clothing for the weather and comfortable shoes.
Those with more time and money can dedicate themselves to other outdoor sober hobbies, such as rock climbing, camping, fishing, and kayaking. Just remember to use proper safety equipment and utilize professional assistance when engaging in strenuous and risky activities.
Gardening is also one of the top sober hobbies for those in recovery. Though gardening takes skill, some beginner-friendly techniques and plants make trying out the hobby easy. It’s easy to start by growing kitchen herbs and progress from there. You don’t need a full garden to gain the peaceful and satisfying benefits of gardening.
#2. Animal Companions for Sobriety
Animals are known to be good for mental health. Studies have identified that pets reduce stress reactions and anxiety. They also improve mood and social interactions for people who are typically isolated. Animals are incapable of judging people, and many animals provide unconditional love. Some people in recovery choose to get some pets because it helps them remain responsible. Animal-based sober hobbies include horseback riding, dog sports, animal husbandry, and teaching your animal companion tricks.
#3. Creative Sober Hobbies
Those in treatment may be well aware of what sober hobbies they can pursue that utilize creativity. Art therapy, after all, is a common therapeutic tool in mental health care and treatment facilities. Driftwood Recovery especially utilizes the power of creativity to help clients express themselves and work through difficult emotions. All the creative arts are considered wonderful sober hobbies because they keep you busy and have a tangible result that gives you satisfaction. Examples of creative sober hobbies include painting, sculpting, knitting, writing, reading, dancing, singing, and playing an instrument.
#4. Self-Education as a Hobby
Exercising the mind is a valid hobby that helps many alumni stay busy in recovery. One of the best ways to do so is to pick a topic or type of study and educate yourself. This can be anything from learning a new language, taking a cooking class, or deciding that you want to learn about a topic you enjoy. Libraries, museums, guided tours, and public lectures are all available to those who want to learn something new. All it takes is self-motivation, and if you have the motivation to learn something new, you have the motivation to stay sober.
#5. Social Sober Hobbies
Some sober hobbies are more social than others. Those who are more introverted will enjoy sober hobbies that take them away from crowds. For others, being around other people is important for their mental health. Social sober hobbies can be anything from joining a book club to volunteering at a charity.
Others may enjoy social games such as board games or tabletop role-playing games. With so many clubs available online, it’s easy to find one that interests you and encourages you to remain sober. Remember that facilities like Driftwood Recovery will have alumni programs that arrange sober meetups. Programs like these are perhaps the best way to try social sober hobbies and see which ones you like the best.
This is by no means a full list of sober hobbies available. The hobby right for you depends on your physical abilities, energy levels, and time. Driftwood Recovery works to help clients discover the hobbies that give them joy and, thus, continued fulfillment during their recovery journey. Just be open to trying new things during your recovery journey and you’ll always have opportunities available to you.
Sober hobbies are a perfect way to stay active and express yourself during and after treatment. Knowing which hobby is right for you takes time, but there is something for everyone. These hobbies don’t just help clients stay in recovery; they also help build self-esteem and courage. That’s why at Driftwood Recovery in Driftwood and Austin, Texas, clients are encouraged to explore their interests and discover what brings them joy. Then, we work with our clients to help them achieve their goals and pursue their interests. With available therapies such as art therapy and outdoor therapeutic recreation, it’s easy to ignite a continuous spark of joy. To learn more, call Driftwood Recovery today at (512) 759-8330.