BEST Vacations in Recovery Sober Summer Travel

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This doesn’t mean you have to stay home and study the big book. And a summer vacation can be just what the doctor/addiction therapist ordered. Itdoes mean, however; that you should plan for triggers to relapse and create a schedule for the time you will be away. You should also consider your destination and vacation partners carefully. For many people, a “staycation” will be the way to go this year. If you have always traveled with a group of boisterous friends or family who make it a point to imbibe over vacation, reconsider your travel companions.

If this is your first summer sober, you may be wondering what to expect from a vacation that no longer involves drinking or using. For example, do you need your journal to write daily affirmations? Or is there a favorite tea you like to drink to get your morning started? Think of the healthy coping habits you’ve developed while you’ve been in recovery and make sure you have a plan on how to implement these on your trip.

Maintaining The Travel Mindset After Vacation

This keeps you accountable and allows you to be proactive and take responsibility for yourself. Being proactive minimizes triggers and builds confidence in your own ability to stay sober. A short mindful meditation can work wonders for building up the extra self-control and reflectiveness that will help you stay sober on vacation.

• This will help to give you peace of mind during your vacation.
• From excursions to cruises, you can see the world, hike a trail, and explore hidden destinations with a tour group in recovery.
• However, planning a morning activity will give you focus and an excuse to head to bed at a reasonable hour if travel companions want to stay out late and party.
• You will also need to rescue your hair from the effects of UV rays, chlorine and salt water.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we recommend reaching out to a support network, such as Alcoholics Anonymous , Narcotics Anonymous , or Al-Anon. These resources are available in cities across the country, so you can find help no matter where you are. If you need assistance finding a meeting near you, please call our addiction treatment center at any time. Coping mechanisms for eating disorders range from practicing mindfulness to avoiding the triggering situation altogether. Practicing self-care and recognizing what works for you can help prevent fear of relapse during a holiday party of a holiday vacation.

Enjoying Yourself with the Right Support

Having someone with you that shares your passion for recovery, either theirs or yours, can remove a lot of excess pressure and help keep temptation out of your mind. Focusing on the environment around you, the activities you have planned, and the people you are with prevent vacationing in recovery your brain from dwelling on your triggers. Stay in the moment and focus on things within your control. Having a companion with you can make this a lot easier, and sometimes even more enjoyable. If you can’t have them with you physically, keep them nearby via phone or text.

Hopping around footloose and sock-free on hot patios, pebbles and sand causes the skin on the base of your feet and heels to harden, dry out and then crack. Our feet get a bad rap all year round, so do your best not to look as if yours are made from chunks of parmesan this September. Foot scrubs are great at exfoliating the dead skin that sits at the surface of your skin; or try a foot mask that will help soften your skin and help rid you of calluses. And invest in a proper foot cream (a face or body moisturiser won’t be rich enough to be truly effective).

Don’t Skip Out on Meetings

Left with all this space, an addict can be tempted to turn to the vices that have always called to them. Instead of looking at vacation as a way to escape from your problems – that is, your addiction and recovery – see it as a way to strengthen your sobriety skills. Pick a place to refresh and reenergize that also supports your recovery. There are several do’s and don’ts you should consider when planning a vacation for yourself or someone else in recovery. A vacation shouldn’t be used as a way to avoid problems — especially for someone in recovery — because chances are, you may be faced with several new travel-related problems. Going into a vacation with unrealistic expectations can potentially lead to relapse.

For more information, resources or to consult with one of our specialists, contact us at centerfordiscovery.com/contact. A vacation is a time to relax and take a break from the daily grind at work. Whether you plan to go to the beach, go camping, or visit another country, a vacation is beneficial to your mental health. During your vacation, you can spend quality time with loved ones, relieve anxiety, and recharge.

Determining the Destination

In addition to all of the above, planning ahead and keeping a routine that is similar to the one you’ve developed during your sobriety can help immensely while on your travels. A normal routine can help keep you focused and on track when you’re trying to have a great time in an unfamiliar environment.

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