Finding Your Inner Peace

Finding consistency can be difficult. It seems that once you get into the groove, something comes along to throw you off-center. Life happens, priorities shift, and some days, there just doesn’t seem to be enough time to get everything done. With so many changes happening around us, taking time to practice self-care is key. Sometimes, I still forget this.

In recovery, we talk about being selfless. And while this is important, too often, we can forget about ourselves.

A few months back, I changed up my routine. I began making excuses as to why all the things that had been working for me for so long were not working for me anymore. In reality, I had slowly started focusing my energy on other people and things. I know enough about me to know that when my focus begins to shift away from myself, I am not in the best place I can be.

I had to take a step back and really look at my life and what is important for me in the now. What pieces of my life are necessary for my well-being, and what parts can be put on pause? From there, I realized what has always worked for me is doing simple things to keep myself grounded. Here are a few tips that have helped me:

1. Wake up at around the same time every day, give or take an hour.
2. Before getting out of bed, say something positive to set the right tone for your day.
3. Pray, keeping it simple if needed, “thank you for this day”.
4. Work out. It doesn’t matter what you do, just do something to get your body moving.
5. Put on an uplifting, happy song. Sing and dance to it, if you are able.
6. Meditate for at least five minutes each day.
7. Read something inspirational.
8. Write in a journal. Making a gratitude list is key.
9. Pick a positive affirmation to be used through the day.
10. Call a friend.
11. Choose to eat healthy.
12. Drink water all day.

And most importantly, change the language you use when accomplishing these things. Rather than say, “I have to” or “I need to,” say, “I want to,” “I can,” and “I get to.” How we talk to ourselves matters. By making a simple adjustment, we shift our perspective and remove the pressure we place on ourselves.

If you are struggling to find balance, try my list and see how it works for you. It is healthy to take care of ourselves first. It is not selfish, or self-centered. I fall apart emotionally and mentally without placing myself at the top of the list. Without making me a priority, nothing else in my life works. I am the most important person, and so are you.

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Mountainside Launches Free Wellness Workshops

Mountainside is excited to announce the Mountainside Wellness Workshop Series. With a focus on empowerment, yoga, and meditation, these hands-on learning experiences will be offered at each of our outpatient centers and open to alumni and guests. Through these interactive workshops, our Wellness team will guide you and help you become the healthiest, happiest version of yourself.

Workshops start in September.

1st Thursday of the Month – Wilton,CT
2nd Thursday of the Month – Chappaqua, NY
3rd Thursday of the Month – Canaan,CT
4th Thursday of the Month – Huntington,NY
There will be a new theme each month and events will rotate through all of the offices. We hope to see you there!

Share Night Speakers

Please email [Jessica Dolan](mailto:jessica.dolan@Mountainside.com) if you are an alum with six months of sobriety and are interested in sharing your story at Alumni Share Night.