Summer is a beautiful time of year when many people begin to spend more time outdoors and in nature. It’s a time for lazy days on the beach, at barbeques or family gatherings and other fun activities. For those in active recovery, summer can be a stressful time of year because of the perceived expectation to drink at these events. Some of the best ways to enjoy social gatherings and avoid temptation are to have a plan, a sober buddy and your own favorite beverage.
Seven fun sober summer activities
Instead of waiting to be invited to activities that may create unnecessary risk and temptation, start planning your own fun summer activities and invite your sober friends. Here are a few fun ideas:
- Take a hike
Not a hiker? No problem. Costa Mesa offers plenty of easy hiking trails with low elevation gain and beautiful views. Just remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. - Try gardening
Gardening has been a popular quarantine hobby for many people. You may find it uniquely satisfying to grow your own fruits or vegetables. Gardening can also help reduce stress and boost mental and emotional well-being. - Work with your hands
Try something new. like baking bread or building something from scratch. Not only can this help reduce stress, but it can also give you satisfaction and boost your confidence. - Visit a new park
There is no shortage of beautiful parks in Southern California, so pack a picnic lunch, invite your sober friends and plot your course to a park you’ve never visited before. New experiences like this can fill your cup and boost your mood. - Do random acts of kindness
Summer is the perfect time to surprise family, friends and neighbors with a random act of kindness. It can be as small as an unexpected and thoughtful card with a handwritten note or bringing someone’s newspaper closer to their front door. These random acts of kindness will also lift your mood and spirit. - Try a new physical activity
Now that quarantine restrictions are easing up, it’s a great time to sign up for that tennis, volleyball or hula lesson you’ve been thinking about. Challenging yourself is a great way to stay present and stop worrying about your past. - Go for a swim
Water has tremendous healing power for the mind, body and spirit. So whether you decide to go for a swim or sit by the ocean and listen to the waves, you will feel calmer and more at peace.
The skilled specialists at Miramar Recovery Center have a longer list of fun things to do when sober, and we hope you’ll check them out and get inspired to plan a fun and sober summer with friends. If you’re still struggling with sobriety, call (949) 691-5036 and take the first step toward long-lasting recovery.
