Creating a Soothing Sober Living Environment

Creating a Soothing Sober Living Environment

Published October 2009

The transition period that follows drug or alcohol recovery is an important one. During this crucial intermediary phase, you embark on a life free of drugs and alcohol dependency and set the tone for the new, sober life ahead of you. By creating a transition-friendly environment, you can maximize your success as a recovered individual, taking the growth and achievement you accomplished during treatment and putting it into action in your everyday existence.

Creating a Transition-Friendly Environment

Here are a few ways to create a transition-friendly environment to foster your new sober lifestyle after you have recovered from alcohol or drug dependency.

• Remove Reminders of Dependency

  The first key to a transition-friendly environment is to ensure that you have removed triggers for drug and alcohol use. Talk to roommates or family members about eliminating drugs or alcohol from your home, and clear away paraphernalia, posters, or memorabilia that reminds you of your dependent past. Eliminate any negative visual reminders that trigger feelings of low self-worth or shame. Ask a sober coach to accompany you to your home to purge your living environment of these triggers.

• Feng Shui Your Environment

  Translated from the Chinese as “wind-water,” feng shui is the art of balancing the energy of your environment. For example, situating furniture, wall decorations, and other items strategically throughout your home can facilitate life-flow energy, known as “chi,” to create a sense of psychological harmony.

• Stay Socially Connected

  Many people make the mistake of isolating themselves during the transition period. This is a time to rejoin the world and your circle of friends, relating to others freshly and authentically. Make sure to plan social engagements with positive people and begin to attend activities and functions that open up connections with others.

• Create a Restful Environment

  Sleep and rest are two of the most critical components of sober living. Ensure that your bedroom has an adequate light blockage, and decorate your sleeping area with fabrics, wall hangings, and scents that induce a sense of peace. Create a meditation space in your living area or outdoors, with a mat or comfortable chair where you can read, think, or meditate on positive things.

• Boost Your Spirits

  Spiritual connections lie at the heart of recovery. Nurture your soul with time set aside for walking in nature, reading ancient scriptures, and visualizing positive energy. Write positive affirmations or inspirational quotations and place them on the bathroom mirror or refrigerator. Make a mix tape of inspirational music to bring a sense of spirituality and centeredness to your environment.

• Get Organized

  Purchase a calendar or day planner to begin to budget your time and appointments. Clear away clutter and consolidate your belongings, keeping those that are meaningful, sentimental, and useful. File essential papers for easy access, and organize your belongings to save time and energy. This will allow you to streamline your new, sober life and make your transition period smoother.