It takes place on the Physical, Mental, and Spiritual levels.
Physically, we find relief from our compulsive behaviors. We no longer need to drink or binge, or to drug ourselves with work, sex, or unhealthy relationships. In the course of time our general health and fitness improve. It is a joy to experience a return to good health and to find reservoirs of energy we never knew we had.
Mentally, we begin to feel hope instead of despair. It is not that all our problems have ceased, but that we are no longer consumed by them. We can accept life on life's terms without feeling driven to control people and events. Our thinking, once distorted and confused, clears. We also have a greater sense of emotional mastery. We don't deny what we feel, but neither are we swept away by our emotions. And whereas we used to be dominated by victim feelings, we now take responsibility for our lives.
These physical and mental changes are rooted in a spiritual transformation. Through the Twelve Steps we are gaining access to a God of our own understanding, who can be relied upon for comfort, protection, and guidance. We are not alone! We don't feel superior to others, or like the lowest of the low, but a human being like everyone else. We find our true selves. What a relief!
The Recovery Plan
Recovery plans can come in a variety of forms. Some people have a general idea of where they are and where they want to be with their lives. They follow a loosely-defined path to Recovery.
A Recovery Plan can be written down, sometimes in great detail. It can be developed with professional help or independently.
Each individual designs his or her own Recovery Plan. Rehabilitation research suggests that a formal written plan has many benefits. Writing things down can help people define their goal. It also helps people develop an action plan -- the specific steps that they need to take to move towards Recovery. Finally, the written Recovery Plan provides a way to check your progress on the journey. By keeping track of action steps as they are accomplished, you can see how far you have traveled and what your next step should be.
Just as we use a road map for a long trip in unfamiliar territory, the written Recovery Plan can help us plan the trip from "where we are" to "where we want to be."
The Goals of Recovery
Different people have different Recovery goals.
As some goals are achieved, new ones are planned.
A Recovery Plan is the roadmap for the journey of Recovery.
Each individual is responsible for his or her own Recovery Plan.
Families, friends, and professionals can support the Recovery Plan
http://www.12steps-recovery.org/what_is_recovery.htm
Twelve Step Recovery Workshop
