Why Reading Is Good for You

A big part of sober living is enriching your life with activities that keep your mind strong. And immersing yourself in a good book can do just that! 

In fact, a love of reading can provide a host of benefits, from improved memory and empathy to a lower risk of developing depression and Alzheimer’s disease. For best results, however, choose a traditional book over an e-reader or tablet. 

Some more reasons to become an avid reader: 

• Better stress management. Some research says that reading can reduce stress by as much as 68 percent. And you likely know by now that it never hurts to have yet another tool to help you tamp down those tensions. 
• Improved sleep. Reading can be a relaxing nighttime ritual – and a great way to signal to your body that it’s time to shut down and catch some ZZZ’s. Again, avoid e-readers or tablets as the bright screens can interfere with your sleep. 
• More motivation. Whether fictional or nonfictional, a story about an inspirational character that met a challenging goal or overcame adversity, for example, can push you to do the same in your own life. 
• Longer workouts. A good tome can transform a tedious workout into an exciting experience. Note: Watch your posture to prevent any injuries to your neck or shoulders, warn experts.
• Enhanced concentration. Focusing for prolonged periods on reading a book is a great exercise to enhance your powers of concentration – and this discipline can have far-reaching effects in school or at work. 

More Recovery Tools at HAUS Recovery
At Haus Recovery, we help our clients stay focused, maintain a positive attitude and care for themselves in order to attain their full recovery potential. To learn more about our services and sober living activities, call us today: 888-551-4715.

5 Ways to Stay Organized

Piles of unopened mail, overflowing closets and drawers, cluttered kitchen countertops – disorganization may seem harmless but it can drain on your time, energy and confidence if you’re not careful. Plus, constantly searching for your bills, keys, or even clothing can make you run late and reinforce habits of disorganization in other areas of your new sober life. 

To the rescue: Some simple steps to help you de-clutter and stay organized.

• Minimize morning chaos. Make lunches, pack briefcases or bags and pick out your clothes the night before. You may also consider placing any must-take items, like your keys, wallet, cell phone charger or umbrella near the front door. 
• Stop paper before it starts. Another bill? Don’t toss it aside and end up with a mountain of paperwork. Open your mail immediately and decide whether to toss it, act on it or file it. 
• Make a plan. Before you start de-cluttering, it’s important to take a few minutes to create a plan or to-do list. Just be sure it’s realistic; try setting small, achievable goals to boost your confidence. 
• Set a time limit. Cleaning an entire closet or desk area can be daunting; just thinking about it may make you stressed out. To feel less overwhelmed, organizational experts recommend setting a time limit and working in increments. For example, start with one small section of your desk area and give yourself 15 minutes. When time is up, just leave it for another day. 
• Keep it simple and easy. Organization doesn’t have to be complicated – and what works for someone else might not work for you. Experiment to find simple strategies and tools that help keep you organized and stress-free.

Our Amenities Support Your Recovery

At HAUS Recovery, you’ll acquire the skills needed to live independently, re-enter your family relationships, thrive in the workplace, and find your purpose without relying on drugs, alcohol, and other addictions. To learn more about our sober living amenities, call today: 888-551-4715.

Give Yourself the Gift of Self-Care

It’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow — the perfect time to show yourself a little love and focus on a few self-care strategies.

If you’re done with rehab, you already know the crucial role self-care plays in your recovery. And, by now, you also likely know that self-care is about much more than healthy hygiene and eating habits. It's about nurturing your whole self — body, mind and spirit. 

Carve out some “me-time” and put these self-care tips into action today: 

• Warm up some soothing tea and enjoy some quiet time.
• Snuggle up with an inspirational book that makes you want to be a better you.
• Put on your favorite music and sink into a bubble bath.
• Tap into your creative side – color, draw, paint, write poetry, etc. 
• Go for a long hike or stroll and soak up the sun.
• Light a scented candle and meditate with your favorite mantra.
• Set the alarm early so you can see the sunrise.
• Take time out to paint your nails or give yourself a pedicure.
• Come up with a new recipe incorporating your favorite healthy foods, herbs and spices.
• Get a fancy glass and treat yourself to water infused with cucumbers, lemons or raspberries.
• Pop some popcorn and watch a funny movie with a loved one.
• Take a nap.
• Break out your journal and jot down five things you’re grateful for – or five things you love about the new sober you!
• Try something new – whether a new fitness class or new recipe.
• Volunteer or cook a meal for a friend – giving back will make you feel great about you.

A Healthier Lifestyle With Deeper Purpose

At Haus Recovery, we help our clients stay focused, maintain a positive attitude and care for themselves in order to attain their full recovery potential. To learn more about our services and activities, call us today: 888-551-4715.

How to Spot Toxic Relationships

A toxic or abusive relationship is detrimental to your mental and physical health as well as your lasting sobriety. That’s why experts almost universally advise against dating and/or jumping into a new relationship in the first year of sobriety.  

Once you’re ready to date, however, it’s important to be discerning. Taking a good, honest look at your dating history is often the first step. This will help you determine any unhealthy past romantic trends so you can make better judgment calls when it comes to future dating prospects. Ultimately, the goal is for you to learn to recognize a healthy relationship and a person who can potentially become a positive part of your new sober life. 

Some red flags to watch out for while dating include: 

Your partner… 

• Is emotionally or physical abusive
• Doesn’t offer his/her emotional support 
• Makes you feel inferior or ignorant
• Frequently lies to you (both big and small fibs) 
• Makes you feel unhappy or sad
• Is always in control and you’ve become frightened to speak up
• Never compromises or gives in
• Wants you for sex and nothing else
• Pressures you to drink or do drugs or participate in unethical or illegal behavior
• Tends to disappear for periods of time without any explanation
• Never says thank you or shows appreciation for you and all that you do
• Always criticizes or belittles you
• Tries to make you feel jealous

Let Our Mentors Guide You

Even with the recovery skills you’ve gained, you may feel uneasy when it comes to relationships. One of the advantages of sober living at HAUS is having fellow residents and a wonderful support team to help you stay clean and respect yourself while you transition from treatment to “normal life.” To learn more about our mentoring services, call today: 888-551-4715.