Many people abhor the term “lazy.” Of course, this is because they are associating it with being “selfish.” However, in recovery, it is important to take back ownership of the word “lazy” and use it to mean self-care. In recovery, allowing yourself to be lazy is critical. This is because taking yourself too seriously can ultimately lead to a relapse. The key is to know when to work and when to rest. This is how you can eventually acquire long-term recovery.
Allowing Yourself to Be ‘Lazy’
Now, allowing yourself to be lazy does not mean allowing yourself to rest on your laurels. It does not mean allowing yourself to isolate away from loved ones and close friends. It also doesn’t allow you to drift away from your set recovery plan.
Allowing yourself to be lazy in recovery simply means allowing yourself to take it easy at times. This is especially true in early recovery. Many people get wrapped up in a million things that they feel they need to accomplish ASAP in recovery. This is actually dangerous because it can take away from the main focus of not drinking or using “just for today.”
Often, people make unrealistic goals in early recovery as well. This could be like becoming entirely debt-free or losing an excessive amount of weight in a short amount of time. Again, this is dangerous because when it doesn’t come to fruition, it could lead to disappointment and ultimately relapse. The key is to focus on one day at a time and take it easy. As is often said in 12-Step recovery, “It took a year to walk into the forest; we can’t expect to walk out in a day.”
What Does Allowing Yourself to Be Lazy Look Like?
Allowing yourself to be lazy in recovery may look selfish at times. It isn’t. That is to say, “it isn’t” as long as you are keeping the bigger picture in mind. Being lazy may look like taking a mental health day off work to go to a 12-Step meeting. It may look like spending a few extra dollars on a treat for yourself because you need a little pick-me-up. Of course, with spending, it is important not to replace one addiction with another. Being lazy may also look like skipping the gym or eating some candy once in a while.
Actually, being willing to eat as needed is critical in recovery. This is especially true when it comes to recovering from alcohol use disorder (AUD). Many people don’t realize that the biggest component of alcohol is sugar. So, when the alcohol goes away, the sugar goes away too. This can leave unexpected sugar cravings. It is important not to fight those cravings, especially in early recovery. Many people have claimed that keeping some candies in their pocket has helped them from relapsing. It’s simple, but it’s true.
Lazy vs. Practical
It is important to remember the acronym, H.A.L.T. This stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, and Tired. At times, adhering to these tenets may look lazy, but in reality, they are smart and practical.
For example, it is not lazy to get the amount of sleep that one needs. Many people find that they make up on sleep when they enter recovery. This may include taking a nap or two during the day. This is okay. Actually, it is healthy. The key is to ensure that the sleep is not related to depression or isolation. Also, regarding isolation, it is important to know the difference between “alone” and “lonely.”
In active addiction, many of us let our worlds get very small by shutting other people out. In recovery, our world begins to open up. However, this does not mean that we must be around people at all times. It is important to learn how to be alone in a healthy way. The key is to know when we are enjoying time alone versus when we are isolating away from the world.
The Holistic Approach to Recovery
Holistic healing methods are also a great way to find peace and calm, and embrace being “lazy.” Of course, this is the version of exceptional laziness that was mentioned earlier. It is not lazy to sit quietly with one’s thoughts; it is meditation.
Yoga is also a great low-impact way of engaging with physicality without overexerting ourselves (of course, there are some very intense forms of yoga out there, too). The key is to remember that getting sober takes a lot of time and effort, and we must slow down and enjoy the ride from time to time.
The Holistic Approach to Success With Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we believe in the whole mind-body approach to recovery. That is why all of our plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
If you are ready to stop fighting everyone and everything, then you are ready to recover. You can do this! We can help.
Many people in recovery feel like they need to be “going” all of the time. While yes, being active is important, it is also critical not to burn out. It can be critical to understand the importance of relaxation in recovery. The good news is that when it comes to relaxation in recovery, the sky is the limit. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about the importance of relaxation in recovery, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
