Physical Strength

It turns out that developing and having physical strength is incredibly important to addiction recovery.  Here’s why: strength relates directly to functionality — the stronger you are, the better you function, physically. Indeed, it is also true that the stronger you are physically, the stronger you are mentally. There is plenty of science to support this.

Effective, simple, and safe physical conditioning makes you stronger relative to yourself and therefore should be a part of any comprehensive addiction treatment program.  Physical conditioning routines can be accomplished in as little as 15-20 minutes, two days per week, and deliver a physiologic boost to your core and whole-body strength. My Addiction Physician patients are taught a low to no impact exercise program that is non-repetitive, requiring little weight and no equipment. Breathing techniques are also integrated and the entire routine can be done almost anywhere.

A proper exercise routine can also increase your natural “feel good” neuro-chemicals (e.g. endorphins, enkephalins and endocannabinoid).  In fact, exercise promotes the production of a “natural brain fertilizer” known as Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (“BDNF”), a protein that helps your brain function more efficiently. There are many other important benefits as well, but know that increasing physical strength can greatly improve brain and body function.  If you are recovering from addiction, reclaiming your independence becomes much easier with a stronger body and brain.