Recovering from addiction is a challenging journey. During the recovery process, there will be times of uncertainty and emotional difficulty. One of the most commonly experienced challenges individuals face during the early stages of recovery is finding joy in life without using substances. At Next Step Recovery, we understand this struggle and offer a unique solution: Outdoor Adventure Therapy. Located in the heart of Asheville, our program takes full advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings to help men reconnect with life and rediscover the joy of living sober.
The Power of Adventure Therapy
Addiction can dull the senses and rob individuals of the ability to find joy in everyday activities. This is often due to the impact of substances on the brain’s reward system, which can take time to heal. Outdoor Adventure Therapy at Next Step Recovery aims to “rewire” the brain for sober fun by allowing individuals to participate in engaging activities that naturally boost mood and well-being.
Rewiring the Brain for Sober Fun
The brain’s reward system is negatively affected by addiction, making it difficult to experience pleasure without the use of addictive substances. Adventure therapy helps to rewire these pathways by providing new and exciting experiences that stimulate natural dopamine release. Through activities like mountain hikes, rafting adventures, high ropes courses, and paintball, individuals in our program not only enjoy themselves but also begin to recondition their brains to find pleasure in sober living.
Some of the activities men in our outdoor adventure therapy program can enjoy and participate in include:
Mountain Hikes: Exploring the majestic mountains around Asheville offers individuals a chance to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the outdoors. Mountain hikes provide physical exercise, which boosts endorphins, and offer a peaceful setting for reflection and mindfulness.
Rafting Adventures: Rafting down the rivers of North Carolina is an exhilarating experience that pushes participants out of their comfort zones. This activity teaches teamwork, resilience, and offers the thrill of conquering the rapids.
High Ropes Courses: High ropes courses challenge individuals to face their fears and build confidence. These courses require focus, balance, and determination, helping individuals develop trust in themselves and others, as well as a sense of accomplishment.
Paintball: Paintball is not only a fun and strategic game but also an excellent way to build camaraderie among participants. It encourages teamwork, quick thinking, and physical activity, all while providing a healthy outlet for stress.
More Than Just “Outdoor Rehab”
Outdoor Adventure Therapy at Next Step Recovery is much more than just an “outdoor rehab.” It is an opportunity for men to bond, grow, and build healthy relationships. Through these shared experiences, individuals can learn to deal with challenges, face fears, and support one another—skills that are important to develop for long-term recovery. The connections formed during these activities often lead to lasting friendships and a strong support network, which is also valuable for maintaining sobriety.
Rediscovering “Natural Highs”
One of the most rewarding aspects of our adventure therapy program is seeing people rediscover the “natural highs” of life. Whether it’s the sense of accomplishment from reaching the summit of a mountain, the adrenaline rush from navigating rapids, or the laughter shared during a paintball game, these experiences help individuals realize that joy and fulfillment can be found without the use of addictive substances.
Taking the Next Step Toward Your Recovery Journey at Next Step Recovery
At Next Step Recovery, we believe in the use of innovative therapies, like our outdoor adventure therapy, to help men who want to overcome addiction. Our program in Asheville offers men in recovery a unique opportunity to rediscover the joys of life and build the skills necessary for a healthy, sober future.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and seeking a supportive recovery experience, reach out to Next Step Recovery.