Most of the men who come into treatment are there because their lives have become unmanageable and are in dire need of structure. The carefully designed schedule of Back2Basics mirrors that of a balanced lifestyle, focusing on the discipline required to accomplish the tasks needed to maintain a healthy existence.
Creating and adhering to a personal, daily routine that includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, interacting positively with others and moving the body is the path to freedom. The program successfully begins the process of training its residents to do this by reducing the number of decisions they make each day, so they can focus on the tasks they need to restore and maintain their health. Diverse activities become standardized and they become more efficient in staying in the present, taking care of themselves, working with others and meeting new challenges; there is no room for forgetfulness or neglect. The process gives them the opportunity to experience the flow and pleasure of a day without addictive substances.
William McRaven, a retired four-star admiral in the United States Navy, draws on his extraordinary experiences to offer insights into accomplishment in life in “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…and Maybe The World.” McRaven presents the learned can-do attitude necessary for overcoming challenges and reaching deep inside to live a life of personal choice. The former Navy SEAL discusses how daily rituals are the key to embedding tasks into the mind to the extent they are eventually accomplished with little or no thought. Even the simplest of daily rituals like brushing your teeth, making your bed, eating breakfast every day or cleaning up after yourself builds self-sufficiency and feelings of accomplishment. In other words, today’s progress is compounded by yesterday’s effort, no matter how small, and all comes down to the power of self-discipline, taking one step at a time.
According to a study conducted by University College London, it takes at least 66 days to make a habit stick. The daily schedule at Back2Basics is set up so residents are consistently engaging in the replacement of poor habits for daily routines that benefit their health and maturity, such as eating nutritious meals or exercising 30 minutes a day and, over time, the new behavior is no longer questioned. It becomes second nature, a new habit.
Additionally, the staff works diligently to help the young men devise and adhere to routines that foster their particular goals and aspirations. Settling into these positive routines continuously shines a light on what is truly important in life. It shines a light on the path to a productive, sober life. FBN
By Roy J. DuPrez M.Ed.
Roy J. DuPrez M.Ed., is the founder of Back2Basics.
Back2Basics is an adventure recovery program, up to six-months, for young adult males, from 18-30, with substance abuse issues looking for a positive and meaningful life. In our program, clients are exposed to a weekly combination of both wilderness adventures and residential programming. Now accepting insurance.
For information, call 928-81-42220 or visit back2basicsoutdooradventures.com. DuPrez can be reached at Rduprez@b2badventures.com