What has helped you on your recovery journey?

[Sam_0896]

I noticed a lot of people do view these threads even if they don't reply, so I thought it'd be nice to share the things that helped everyone in their recovery

For me

1. Buddhism - I'm not a true believer or anything but I did start taking classes in universal compassion at a meditation center in my area. I loved it so much because it is so warm and kind. It was more like a study group than simply meditation. However, meditation really helped me with emotional regulation

2. Self-compassion - I took a course in self compassion at the center (run by Chris Germer) that was my introduction to meditation. I'm still not at the point where I can meditate on my own, but it was so insightful to learn about shame, self compassion, and how developing this practice is proven to work

3. High intensity cardio - I did my research on cardio for depression. I followed a running plan for beginner's from runner's world. It is hard to get up and do it daily, but I learned that consistency begins with setting a time/day for any new habit. So, even if I only run for 5 minutes, what matters most is that I get into the habit of doing it at that time/day. It also helps me to build confidence in myself because I keep my word. 

4. Moving - this is a little hard depending on your finances/job prospects. I had a serious setback over the last two weeks because of how depressing my household was. Yet, I am moving which fills me with excitement/dread. I worry because it's half way across the country, and not a very diverse area. Yet, I am excited to be on my own again and able to set boundaries with my parents. 

5. Volunteer - I volunteer with a woman's center as an ESL teacher. I love it. The women are so very grateful because it is a free program run by the Catholic church. I've met the most amazing, resilient women, and it really helps with feelings of shame to spend my time helping others. I also volunteer at the local food bank, either giving out clothes to children or sorting food for distribution

6. Family - I have had issues with my parents, but my extended family & siblings have been so helpful. I went to Egypt to visit my friends and family, and they really lifted my spirits. It was nice too as a break from remembering about monitoring. There's a lot of sunlight, and so much to see that it has lifted my mood to be able to escape if only for a little while. It also helped to talk with my family back home because they really put my problems into perspective. 

 

What has helped you?