November 11

”Life begets life. Energy becomes energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.” Sarah Bernhardt

One of the important things I did to start taking better care of myself in recovery was to increase my physical activity and exercise. It was apparent after a short while that burning energy actually gave me more energy, and that I found I had more endurance to get through the days. It also helped that I have gotten myself into better shape, lost some weight, and rid myself of stress through sweat. There is a flip side which can be equally true. Laziness can beget laziness. I can easily get into a routine of doing nothing much at all, sitting in front of the TV or computer or whatever. Conserving energy encourages more of the same, and leads to inaction. Sitting still reminds me too much of moments of my “active” addiction, which was really an exercise in stagnation. Recovery is about participating in life again, taking an active role and working for change. It is about learning to be rich with all that my Higher Power has provided for me.

Affirmation It’s true that in giving I receive, in working my program and spreading its power with others that I gain for my own benefit.

April 4

”Talking too much about oneself can also be a means to conceal oneself.” Friedrich Nietzsche

By my nature, I tend to be introverted. As such, being in groups and social situations drains my personal energy. For me, time alone with a book, going for a walk, or simply to sit with my thoughts is required to recharge and recuperate. For an extrovert, the opposite is true, they tend to need social gatherings to recharge and for them being on their own is very draining. It’s important for us to be aware of how situations will affect our physical and mental health. I am all too aware that I am more vulnerable to my addictive patterns when I am stressed, tired, hungry or anxious. Planning time in my day and week so I can have the moments I need to recharge is important in maintaining my defenses against my addictive tendency. I need to listen to my body’s needs, maintain a good diet, get proper sleep and exercise, and ensure my physical health is taken care of. Keeping a healthy balance of my physical, mental, emotional and spiritual condition will support my recovery.

Affirmation I will take care of myself today and ensure that I have time for activities to maintain my physical health.