• Acknowledge the positive impact of exercise on mental health, providing benefits such as stress relief, improved mood, and increased self-worth.

• Understand the link between exercise and the natural release of endorphins, promoting feelings of euphoria and wellbeing.

Runner's High and Natural Benefits

• Understand the concept of "runner's high" as a natural release of endorphins during and after exercise.

• Differentiate between a healthy exercise addiction and the harmful nature of substance addiction.

Additional Benefits of Exercise

• Recognise the diverse benefits of exercise, including its positive impact on depression and anxiety, increased energy levels, weight management, muscle strength, heart health, diabetes risk reduction, and improved sleep quality.

• Acknowledge the potential impact of exercise on maintaining a youthful appearance.

Choose a Personal Exercise Form

• Identify an exercise form that suits your preferences. In my case, running was what worked for me.

• Consider activities like yoga, swimming, or brisk walks as alternatives based on your fitness level.

Solitary Nature of Exercise

• Appreciate the parallel between solitary exercise and the self-directed nature of addictive behaviours – this is in the book – it’s what worked for me, but may not be what works for you – it’s down to personal preference.

• Recognise the autonomy in choosing the duration, type, and intensity of exercise, similar to the control associated with addiction.

Exercise as a Key to Sobriety

• Embrace exercise as a fundamental element in the journey to sobriety, fostering physical and mental well-being.

• Experiment with various forms of exercise to find what suits you best, emphasizing its role in combating boredom.

Boredom Management

• Recognise the role of exercise in combating boredom, providing a healthy and constructive way to spend time – this is super important and works!

• Appreciate how exercise contributes to maintaining focus and preventing slipping back into harmful habits.