By Colin W., Renascent Alumni & Relief Counsellor
Meditation, self-reflection, and physical activity such as, working out or yoga, can be effective tools for managing anger in individuals in recovery from addiction. These practices can help increase self-awareness and regulate emotions, leading to more positive and constructive responses to challenging situations. It’s important to remember that anger is a natural emotion, and it’s okay to feel it. However, it’s important to learn how to express anger in a healthy way, rather than letting it control one’s actions and behaviors. By incorporating these practices into their daily routine, individuals in recovery can develop the skills necessary to manage their anger and maintain their sobriety.
Speaking now for myself as a recovering addict and alumnist of Renascent, in my first seven months sober, I had a very intense and damaging outburst of emotion. It was one of those situations where I acted solely out of fear and anger. I literally saw myself go too far and it was too late to stop the momentum of where I let the anger carry me.
I sprinted away from my best friend’s apartment in tears, terrified of the consequences of losing a really wonderful and healthy friendship, looking bad, and other fears. After doing a proper inventory (Step 10), I know I had an amends to make (Step 9) to myself and to this dear friend.
I called my sponsor after this spiritual housecleaning and it became clear to me that I needed a regular activity that complimented my new way of life. I chose joining a gym with facilities that support classes like yoga. Cardio and weights where I now spent time reflecting on my mornings. It’s my own meditation, and it has helped extinguish the flame of unprocessed emotion.
Anger feels very real when it hits, however I know now that it is a secondary emotion that can grow from not facing fear head on.
