Do we have to stop being silly just because we’re in recovery? I think not! In fact, our mental health just might be at stake if we get too serious!
Things we do need to be serious about:
- Our sobriety
- The 12 Steps
- Our speech: is it helpful or harmful?
- Our actions: are you being selfish, self-centered, greedy, or manipulative?
- Our health: are you taking care of our mental and physical health?
- Asking for help
- Developing self-awareness
- Self-care
But here are some things where being silly, play, lightheartedness can be invited in:
- Creativity
- Exercise…outside…in the mountains, or at the beach. In fact, learn how to do something new, like stand up paddle boarding, and bring your sense of humor with you–you’ll need it!
- Look random things during your day that bring you joy and share them with others.
- Games: grab a yo-yo or try to walk a slinky down some stairs. Remembering how to be ridiculous is truly liberating.
- Have a Game night. Seriously a night hanging out with friends, some coffee, and a silly game like Balderdash can be hilarious.
Getting sober, managing mental health issues, learning how to be comfortable again or for the first times in our bodies is hard work. It’s scary, emotional, and intense. When we get lost in the intensity, and lose site of our light side, recovery can feel overwhelming. This is where finding humor, laughter, and fun can act as a release valve we so desperately need. Keep it simple never sounded so good!
Originally posted on March 15, 2013 @ 5:44 pm
