Life is complex, and as human beings, we rely on others to learn and build our confidence and capacity to cope with changing situations. As a result, it stands to reason that the challenges of life are best faced when we surround ourselves with others who demonstrate healthy behaviors. For the recovering addict, this means inviting people into his or her life who will encourage, motivate and inspire the individual to be the very best version of himself or herself. All types of relationships – … [Read more...] about Understanding the Importance of Relationships in Recovery
Roy DuPrez
Letters We Will Never Send
The teddy bear cholla sure sounds cuddly, but don’t let it fool you. The spines on these prolific desert plants are often barbed, like a little fishhook. The cactus itself grows in a collection of smaller pieces. The pieces easily disconnect from the main stem and their needles are designed to catch and hold onto anything that comes near them, like you. It’s not unusual to find them hitching a ride on your shoe, ankle, backpack or bike tire. Once they grab on, you really don’t want to use your … [Read more...] about Letters We Will Never Send
Understanding a New-Found Freedom
The prescriptive use of adventure experiences by health professionals has shown to result in significant improvements in the regulation of emotions and behavior. Numerous studies point to the many benefits of outdoor experiences, including self-disclosure and awareness and enhanced attention span and problem-solving skills, as well as many brain functions important in the acquisition of a balanced life. Invigorated by the beauty of nature and the challenges it presents, many develop a … [Read more...] about Understanding a New-Found Freedom
Having Responsibilities Furthers the Addiction Recovery Process
In his book, “Boys Adrift,” Dr. Leonard Sax explains that men need to be responsible because if men are not needed, they do not flourish. Furthermore, according to organizational psychologist Benjamin P. Hardy, men actually step down if they are not needed. For example, when expectations are low, you will find young men demonstrating behaviors like remaining in their parents’ homes longer, delaying steps into adulthood and failing to thrive overall. Back2Basics believes addiction takes and … [Read more...] about Having Responsibilities Furthers the Addiction Recovery Process
Engaging in Community Service Aids in Recovery
In his book, “Boys Adrift,” Dr. Leonard Sax explains men need to be responsible, because if men are not needed, they do not flourish. Furthermore, according to organizational psychologist Benjamin P. Hardy, men actually step down if they are not needed. For example, when expectations are low, you will find young men demonstrating behaviors like remaining in their parents’ homes longer into adulthood and failing to thrive overall. Back2Basics believes addiction takes away and recovery gives … [Read more...] about Engaging in Community Service Aids in Recovery
Ten Years of Recovery Through Nature
For 10 years, Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery has been using the natural environment to help young men recover from addiction. The Flagstaff-based program engages men, ages 18 to 35, in a variety of wilderness experiences that are emotionally and physically safe, combined with more traditional therapies such as process groups and one-on-one counseling with a clinician. “We’re a hybrid, beginning with the expeditions for half the week, and the other half of the week focusing on … [Read more...] about Ten Years of Recovery Through Nature
Back2Basics Outdoor Adventures Benefiting Men During Times of Change: Part 1
Now, more than ever, with our world in a new chapter of uncertainty and routine as we knew it, we are facing change. We seek the often-overlooked gifts of fresh air, sunshine, blue skies, quiet and a glimpse of calm between binge watching Netflix and staying current with coronavirus statistics on the news. The prescriptive use of adventure experiences by health professionals has shown to result in significant improvements in the regulation of emotions and behavior. Numerous studies point to … [Read more...] about Back2Basics Outdoor Adventures Benefiting Men During Times of Change: Part 1
Healing, Growing through Outings in Nature
The prescriptive use of adventure experiences by health professionals has shown to result in significant improvements in the regulation of emotions and behavior. Numerous studies point to the many benefits of outdoor experiences including self-disclosure and awareness and enhanced attention span and problem-solving skills, as well as many brain functions important in the acquisition of a balanced life. Invigorated by the beauty of nature and the challenges it presents, many develop a lifelong … [Read more...] about Healing, Growing through Outings in Nature
Understanding the Importance of Relationships in Recovery
Life is complex, and as human beings, we rely on others to learn and build our confidence and capacity to cope with changing situations. As a result, it stands to reason that the challenges of life are best faced when we surround ourselves with others who demonstrate healthy behaviors. For the recovering addict, this means inviting people into his or her life who will encourage, motivate and inspire the individual to be the very best version of himself or herself. All types of relationships – … [Read more...] about Understanding the Importance of Relationships in Recovery
Mindfulness: What it is, How it Works
Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present. In our day of technical addiction and multitasking, this is actually more challenging than ever before, which is probably why mindfulness is becoming so mainstream. There is a desperate need to feel more connected and content. For some, this practice comes naturally. Those who are really present in the kitchen, preparing loving meals and eating with consciousness already do this practice instinctively. Those who immerse themselves … [Read more...] about Mindfulness: What it is, How it Works