Holistic Addiction Recovery in Montana: Embracing Nature’s Cycles in Your Recovery Journey

As the seasons change, so do our activities and our moods. For those in addiction recovery, any shift in mood, whether positive or negative, can significantly impact the recovery process. For those seeking holistic addiction recovery in Montana, understanding these shifts is imperative to helping them reach their sobriety goals. We will take a closer look at what each season symbolizes and how it can impact addiction recovery.

How the Change of Seasons Symbolize & Impact Your Holistic Addiction Recovery in Montana

Each season brings a particular feeling that those in recovery should be aware of if they want to maximize their recovery and not fall victim to triggers.

Winter

During the winter, fewer daylight hours can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) [1]. While there is no clear cause for why people develop SAD, it is believed that the reduced hours of sunlight and shorter days play a role due to the sleep-related hormone melatonin [2]. Melatonin is naturally released when it gets dark, so with less sunlight, the body produces more melatonin, which can lead to reduced energy levels.

When people develop SAD, they typically produce less serotonin. This is a neurotransmitter that plays into how happy we are. When this occurs, people can feel depressed, which can be a cause of substance use.

When you combine all of these factors, those in addiction recovery may be more prone to relapse during this time of the year. Knowing this is possible can allow you to prepare by planning social gatherings to avoid isolation and getting more exercise to release endorphins that can boost energy levels.

Spring

Have you ever heard of “spring fever”? There is generally a surge in positive emotions this time of year linked to increased exposure to sunlight. This can brighten our mood by boosting vitamin D levels and triggering the release of serotonin.

During this time of year, everything is energized. Flowers bloom, and there is a sense of rebirth after a dreary winter. Nature and people’s sense of positivity and light come to life. This is an excellent time to look at your recovery and what can be done to remain healthy. If there are things you would like to change, spring is a beautiful time to do so. You can represent how the season promotes growth and positive change.

Summer

Many people experience summer bliss during this time of year due to the sunlight exposure. This helps to stimulate the production of serotonin and encourage the release of endorphins.

While summer brings plenty of sunlight, unlike the dreary winter, it also brings unique challenges. There are plenty of social events that can involve drinking. These gatherings can lead to triggers that cause potential relapse. If invited to these events, be aware of whether alcohol will be served. This way, you can make an educated decision about whether you want to attend and, if so, how you will handle any pressure to drink.

You can also plan your sober events that allow you to socialize without any temptations present. Showing others that sober parties can be just as fun as those that involve alcohol will help others to support your sobriety.

Summer is also a great time to get outdoors for exercise, sports, and other activities. Getting plenty of fresh air will not only provide excellent sources of sunlight but will also release energy-boosting endorphins. Being outdoors can also limit the time spent inside on devices and social media sites, which can hinder your recovery effort.

Autumn

During the fall months, things tend to quiet down as people head back to work and school from summer vacations and get back into a routine. This is an excellent time to reflect on your routine and recovery growth. If things are working, keep doing them and celebrate milestones. If areas need change, use this time to set a new routine and schedule.

Coping with the Impact of Nature’s Cycle on Holistic Addiction Recovery in Montana

Besides being aware of how nature’s cycle can impact your recovery, you can also practice meditation and mindfulness to help regulate emotions year-round. These exercises can help you to stay grounded and aware of mood shifts.

Keeping active and exercising regularly can also help to improve mood, as can eating a balanced diet. Eating too many processed or sugary foods can leave you feeling drained and sluggish. Eating right and exercising can keep your energy levels up year-round.

Many people also benefit from support for seasonal mood changes. Talking to a professional and hearing from others with similar experiences can serve as good coping mechanisms.

Holistic Addiction Recovery in Montana: Seek Treatment in the Tranquil Setting Bear Creek Recovery Offers

Bear Creek Recovery offers addiction treatment in Montana for those looking to recover from drug and alcohol use in a tranquil setting that allows patients to become one with nature as they grow on their path to recovery. We believe in providing a holistic approach to address the entire person, not just one aspect. Our professional staff is here to guide you along your path to sobriety. To learn more about our various programs, contact the team at Bear Creek Recovery today.

Sources:

[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651

[2] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/seasonal-affective-disorder