Recently, I celebrated 13 years of being a licensed Zumba fitness ® instructor. I never would’ve imagined it, but here I am dancing my way through life and helping others do the same. I did not start out as an instructor. I started out as a participant in dance fitness classes and fell in love. But my fitness journey ... Read More
Reflections on Codependency Almost 40 Years Later
Over 20 million people in the United States struggle with a substance use disorder, a health condition that can also significantly impact relationships. Loved ones close to people with use disorders may find themselves responding to the chaos and stress of the resulting behaviors with their own unhealthy patterns of ... Read More
Helping Loved Ones: Communication with CRAFT Model
Recently, I had the pleasure of participating in FHE Health’s First Responder Families Podcast. The conversation was about self-care for families affected by substance abuse and how to improve communication with a loved one diagnosed with a substance use disorder. Much of this discussion about healthy ... Read More
Is Sobriety Boring?
Is Being Sober Boring? It’s a question that comes up often. The answer is multi-faceted. As people grow in their recovery, their worldview, their ability to follow through with a plan, and their willingness to take risks change over time. The good news is that recovery can open the door to a life full of meaning, ... Read More
NOT! Drinking around the World in Disney
Staying Sober AROUND THE WORLD at Disney: My Epcot Adventure As someone in long-term recovery, I'm always on the lookout for substance-free fun, and Disney Parks are at the top of my list. While alcohol is available at all U.S. Disney parks at age 21, the real magic lies in the experiences—not the drinks. As a Florida ... Read More
Making Amends: How to Approach Step 9 AA… and When Not To
A 12-step program fosters long-term recovery through spirituality, growth, and accountability. Each step presents challenges that encourage change in mindset and behavior. Mutual Aid, peer led support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous guide members to work through these steps to maintain sobriety and help ... Read More
Step 1 of AA: “Powerlessness”, the First of the 12-step Journey
The journey to recovery often begins with a single step, and for millions of individuals battling alcohol and/or substance addiction through using a self-help pathway such as Alcoholic Anonymous, this first step is truly lives up to its name as it is the first step of several steps that are regarded as a program of ... Read More
What Is the Purpose of Anonymity in the 12 Step Programs?
By now, most people are aware of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) but what does that second word imply? This discussion will focus on what anonymity is and why it is a central theme in the Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-Step based programs. What Is AA Anonymity? The word "anonymity" is defined as the state of being ... Read More
