Using Nature-Based Therapies as an Alumnus

Hawaii Island Recovery utilizes many personalized strategies and programs, each filled with nature-based opportunities and oceanic approaches to mental, emotional, and spiritual healing.  Snorkeling, taking trips to the beach, and engaging with the natural world are all part of a comprehensive treatment program. Even after graduating from one of these programs and beginning life as a sober alumnus, alumni can continue to engage in nature-based therapies at home, translating their experiences at Hawaii Island Recovery’s rehab centers in Hawaii to at-home practices. Coupled with the coming of spring, there can be a wealth of new opportunities for alumni to continue benefitting from nature-based therapies for a sustained and healthy sober life. 

Nature is an amazing resource for effective and transformative healing. Whether an individual is developing strategies to navigate urges and cravings, improve mental health, or engage in more effective self-care, nature-based therapies and opportunities can provide a wide array of benefits.

For many, nature can be an incredibly freeing force. It can be easy to get caught up in routines or to feel both physically and emotionally “trapped” by the walls of a home or office. Nature can empower alumni to both physically and emotionally detach from these stresses. Feeling the wind in the air and listening to the sounds of nature can all help each individual truly let go of harbored feelings of anxiety, depression, and doubt, or just let the brain get away from thinking about work, deadlines, responsibilities, and more.

Others may use nature to stay physically active. Healing is a holistic effort, and getting the body moving can be instrumental in improving physical health while also releasing dopamine, or the “feel good” chemical in the brain. Using nature to relax, promote healthy daily practices, improve spiritual health, and more can all help to challenge negative feelings like anxiety and depression while also empowering alumni to overcome urges, cravings, the effects of mental health disorders, and more in their journey to a sustainable and fulfilling sober life. 

There are many ways that alumni can incorporate nature-based therapies into daily life. For some, using the nature-based activities practiced at Hawaii Island Recovery can be a great place to start, helping to keep consistent schedules and expectations. However, others may look to expand the potential benefits of nature-based therapies in recovery by exploring new options this spring.

Mindfulness practices, meditation, yoga, and more are all common practices at Hawaii Island Recovery and can empower those overcoming addiction to better connect to their bodies, minds, and spiritual beliefs. Continuing to engage in effective mindfulness techniques can be instrumental in identifying stresses, overcoming urges and cravings, challenging the continued effects of mental health disorders, and much more. Getting outdoors in nature can improve the efficacy of these practices by adding a freeing and spiritual element and a calming atmosphere. 

Hiking is a great way to break free from daily stresses and promote a healthier physical lifestyle in sobriety. With the onset of spring and warming temperatures, it can be a great time to explore how hiking in nature can benefit a person’s continued personal, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing. Hiking can be done either alone, embracing peace and serenity, or alongside supports and loved ones to focus on these relationships while relating stresses, worry, and navigating other challenges.  

Nature-based therapies can take many forms, and while some may enjoy getting outside this spring, others may take the changing of seasons as an opportunity to explore new inspirations. Nature in springtime can be a major inspiration for artistic hobbies or therapeutic outlets. By blending nature-based therapies and experiences with artistic endeavors, each individual can better explore the transformative benefits of both practices, making both more effective in sustainable sobriety and navigating mental health disorders. Drawing, painting, writing, and more are all ways that nature can further its positive impact.

Nature-based therapies can also incorporate projects over time. Gardening is one of these major therapeutic activities, with many engaging in gardening as a form of relaxation. However, for those in recovery from substance use disorder (SUD), it can have many additional benefits. The feeling of accomplishment from watching the direct results of a person’s labor can be incredibly rewarding. Others may find it calming while also exploring personal responsibilities and accountability in sobriety. 

However, gardening can also provide regular structure and routine, starting each morning with a calming activity at a consistent time. This can be a form of self-care and structure that can prevent feelings of anxiety, doubt, guilt, and more from negatively affecting the day from the moment a person wakes up. 

Each person will have their own best approach to embracing nature-based therapies throughout their treatment program. At Hawaii Island Recovery, nature is highlighted not just for its direct therapeutic benefits but also to help an individual explore the cultural importance of nature across Hawaii and its communities and the spiritual benefits that nature brings. 

After graduating from a treatment program at Hawaii Island Recovery, an individual does not have to relinquish these practices. Rather, Hawaii Island Recovery is always available to help alumni adapt the practices explored throughout their time in treatment on the big island of Hawaii into their daily lives. 

Nature is a powerful force in recovery, helping many to address feelings of anxiety and depression as well as navigate urges and cravings in sobriety. At Hawaii Island Recovery’s rehab centers in Hawaii, we understand the power of incorporating nature-based therapies into your healing. Whether you are just beginning your journey in recovery or continuing to develop healthy strategies for sustainable change as an alumnus, incorporating nature can be a great way to engage in truly holistic and transformative change. For more information on how we utilize nature-based therapies at our treatment facility in Hawaii, or to explore how you can incorporate nature into your continued healing as an alumnus, call to speak to us today at (866) 390-5070.