When you’re recovering from addiction, it’s best to focus on doing things that won’t trigger a relapse. This requires intentional thinking, planning ahead, and finding things to do that are different from your old drinking and partying habits. The good news is that Los Angeles and the surrounding region provide numerous options when you are recovering from addiction. From hiking in the mountains to swimming in the ocean, you can find something that feeds your soul in positive ways. Here’s what you can do in LA besides drink or party:

Join a Yoga Center

There are too many benefits of doing Yoga to even list. Yoga is a great way to relax, stay in shape, and focus on the present. When you are a recovering addict, you need healthy ways to destress when you are overwhelmed, such as a tribe of people who can support your sobriety. You can find both of these things in Yoga. There are many different types of yoga for people with different needs. Use Google to find local classes near you.

Spend Time at the Beach

The beach is a great place to spend time in LA. You can go for a run, take a walk, or just sit on the sand with your friends or family and enjoy the sun. Beaches have a calming effect on people because they can reduce stress levels and improve moods. Going to the beach means you’re more likely to connect with people who also enjoy similar activities. You can take your time in the sun to recharge, reflect, and have some good, healthy fun. Plus, when you get help from the professionals at Tarzana Treatment Center or another nearby rehab facility, you aren’t far from the beach in Santa Monica where you can enjoy the pier and so much more.

Visit Local Coffee Shops

You may not be drinking alcohol anymore, but you can enjoy a nice cup of coffee from one of the many craft roasters in LA. As you know, coffee shops are a great place to meet people, get work done, and socialize. Try out local favorites, and meet up with friends in an environment that is less likely to trigger a relapse. Many of these places even offer live music, which can make for a fun night out with friends.

Take a Hike in the Nearby Mountains

The Santa Monica Mountains are right outside of Los Angeles and offer so much to do. Explore nature on a hike, go bird watching, or find a campsite to stay at overnight. If you’re looking for a change of scenery from the tall city buildings, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby. Local hiking stores can be a great resource to find the best hikes for your skills and abilities. Wear comfortable clothes, bring lots of water, and don’t forget a snack. If you plan to hike solo, make sure you tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back.

Meander Through Huntington Library Gardens

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens are a beautiful garden located in San Marino, California. The gardens feature numerous acres of land that have amazing curated and beautiful plants. You can walk the gardens or visit the buildings. They also have a Chinese garden with rare plants that are carefully tended to ensure their health and beauty.

Attend Recovery Meetings

In the recovery community, meetings are a way to connect with other people who have been through what you’re going through. Often, it feels lonely when you are going through recovery. Having a group to meetup with and talk about your struggles can help you feel less alone in the process. Since you’re all going through it together, these meetings can also be a source of inspiration and motivation.

Tour the Coastline on Bike

If you live in LA, you might know that the coastline has incredible views. If you want to get out of the city to see something new, check out the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. This 22-mile trail runs right along the west-facing coastline of LA. It has beautiful views, unlike any other bike trail in the area.

Conclusion

Finding new things to do is part of the recovery process. You probably want a different way to enjoy the city that’s unique from the usual drinking and partying life that many people think of when Los Angeles is brought up.