The Importance of Connections

With the freezing temperatures and snow, I tend to want to go into hibernation. If you are like me, then you understand the struggle of someone who dislikes the cold. But this year, I am determined to not fall prey to the season.

So, what have I been doing to tackle the winter blues?

Hanging out with friends more

For New Year’s, a group of us gathered to play board games. Now, I know what some of you are thinking ⎼ BORING! But it was far from it. Having fun isn’t about the game but more about bringing people together to enjoy great conversation and laughter.

Change up your workout routine

If I’m being honest, this was not planned. Early into this winter, I realized that my trainer was not a big believer in turning on the heat. As I’ve mentioned before, I am not a fan of being cold. My fingers and toes cannot handle below zero temperatures. I soon realized that gloves and a hat just were not going cutting it. So, I put boot camp on hold. I started working out in the comfort of my warm cozy living room. I downloaded the Active app by POPSUGAR. It is loaded with hundreds of free workouts.

Join a challenge

I recently stumbled upon an online yoga, and I fell in love. I saw there was an opportunity to try it online for free for seven days and joined. Each day, I received an email with the link to my next workout and became part of a group on Facebook that is solely for those engaged in the program. It is great support system and sounding board for questions.

Visiting family

Family is without a doubt the most important thing to me. I take any excuse I can find to visit them. My sister recently had a baby, so I have been spending lots of weekends cuddling that little guy, hanging out with my parents, and dancing around the living room with my nieces. The love that fills me up in those moments carries me forward.

Volunteer

Giving back is one of my passions. I find that helping others feeds my soul in a way that nothing else can. I recently became part of an amazing group of women who dedicate their time to changing the lives of others. By doing so, I am not only helping the cause but in turn helping myself.

What do these things have in common? Connections. Connection with self, connection with source, connection with others are essential for living an amazing life. If you are feeling blue or want to strengthen your connections, #gobeyond your comfort zone and join us at one of the February alumni events.

Alumni Spotlight

Cole D.

Cole was afraid of going to treatment, but he knew that this might be his last chance to get his life back on track. With the help and support of his family, he is now thriving in a life of sobriety. In this month’s Spotlight, Cole shares his journey to rediscovering his true self, his struggles, and some advice for those new to recovery. **Q.** What suggestions do you have for the newcomer? **A.** Surround yourself with people who you want to be like. This means asking positive people for support, like rides to meetings, sponsorship, coffee, their phone number, and general help. We’ve all been through what you’re going through. Take the chance to put yourself out there, and it’s pretty clear, people are a big help.

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Health And Wellness

Dating While Sober

Dating can be intimidating, especially when you're sober. You might feel like you are missing out by not going to bars or clubs, but sober dating is not only possible, it's fun! Next time you are planning a date, try one of these great date ideas.

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Alumni #GoBeyond Mexico Trip

Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey and challenge yourself to #GoBeyond? Join us April 14-22 for a fun filled adventure of spiritual enlightenment across ancient Mexico.

**Reservation Deadline: March 1, 2018.** Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity.

Share Your #GoBeyond Story

We want you to share your story and help us inspire others to #GoBeyond in their lives.

It’s simple, use your smartphone, tablet, or camera and record yourself answering the following questions:

• What does Go Beyond mean to you?
• What are you doing or what have you done to GoBeyond in your life?

February Milestones

We are building a list of sobriety birthdays. If you’d like to have your recovery birthday featured in our newsletter, please contact [Jessica Dolan](email:Jessica.Dolan@Mountainside.com).