How Recovery Redefines Your Connections
One of the unexpected challenges of recovery and healing can be shifting relationships.
We connect with people – friends, family, and community who are of like mind and energy.
When you begin to heal, what you once felt was normal and even acceptable, no longer resonates which creates changes in your relationships.
This can be a very lonely and isolating time but what you may not realize is that you are making room for new, healthier connections.
The healing journey involves healing the very reasons you turn to any mind altering substances in the first place.
This often means confronting deep-seated issues like trauma, anxiety, or low self-esteem.
Healing almost always means you are changing your lifestyle and habits but you may not realize that healing changes the way you see yourself and your internal beliefs and values.
Healthy boundaries and self-love redefine your relationships
- You learn that self-love is more valuable than self-sacrifice, and
- You understand that healthy boundaries are essential for relationships built on mutual respect and support.
- Become fearless in communicating your boundaries. For example, if a friend constantly pressures you to drink, you might say: ‘I appreciate your offer, I quit drinking but I’d love to catch up with you over coffee instead.’
- Prioritize your self-care (this is not selfish). You’re learning a new way of ‘being’ so engage in activities that take care of your mind, body, and spirit, such as being in nature, spending time in silence, aka meditation, journaling, or yoga and exercise.
- Reconnect with hobbies. What do you like doing that you can get lost in for hours. For example, reading, writing, playing an instrument, car restoration, scrapbooking, hiking.
- Engage in activities and join groups that reflect your evolving interests. This can help you connect with like-minded people. Shared passions often lead to meaningful relationships.
The space you are creating now will soon be filled with healthy, supportive relationships.