I am resetting my date due to the holidays, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, I went on a three week binge and I am now two days sober. I really need to get into new habits. I know the gym is a really good one, but I just need different ideas on how to keep my mind occupied.
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Glad to hear you decided to get back on the path to sobriety, I understand the struggle of not being able to resist the urge to drink/use during the holidays!
Activities that keep my mind busy in a healthy way are reading, painting, and walking my dogs!
Reading provides me with a temporary “escape” from this sometimes stressful world and allows me to shrug off my worries for a time while I dive into a good story!
Painting (or any form of creativity) allows me to focus on something specific like a shape, curve, or color, giving my mind some time to relax from intrusive thoughts or urges to drink/use!
Walking my dogs gives me a good reason to get out of the house and get some exercise. Like almost any symbiotic relationship, both I and the dogs benefit from the activity! Keeping an eye on the dogs for their safety keeps my mind busy. If you don’t have any dogs, taking walks by yourself and enjoying nature is always a good avenue as well!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need extra support, I understand how difficult the first few days are after a three week bender! 
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Thrilled to hear that you’re not giving up on your sobriety! Freedom and victory is headed your way so, pull them boots up and get back on that horse 
I was told that if I wanted to change/sober my addiction then, I had to change my habits. That has helped me alot. I started driving routes in my daily commutes that prevented me from driving by places that sold alcohol. If I had to get groceries, I avoided the areas where it was in the store. Walking with my dog or with my daughter riding her bike helped with the exercise part. Alot of phone calls have definitely been made in time of cravings or struggles. Waking up at a specific time and going to bed at a specific time has helped alot, as it has built the necessary boundaries and discipline thats healthy for sobriety. I wish you nothing, but the best in your journey of recovery and remember to reach out to someone when you’re struggling, you’re never alone!
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For me I walked a lot in nature the first year of my recovery. Being active outside helped me to get my mind calm and my body tired so I slept better. I also spend a lot of time here on TS, reading and writing. Other stuff I liked to do where: triftshopping, working out, crochetting, reading, listen to podcasts (like recouvery elevator), etc.
How long where you sober and what has helped you back then?
I have been heavily depending on reading my bible and getting closer to God. I also have been extremely dedicated to the gym. Also fixing my daily habits with my kids because of all the wasted time drinking that belonged to them. It’s truly incredible how fast my life is turning around.
Reading and getting close to your HP, exercise, and prioritizing loved ones sound like some amazingly healthy activities compared to drinking!
I’m glad you’re here, I’m glad you’re sharing, and I’m glad your life is on the upswing! Keep up the upward momentum!
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