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Henry G. “Hank” Parkhurst, born in 1895 and passing away in 1954, was one of the key individuals in the founding and early development of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Parkhurst’s contribution to the organization’s formation and principles remains influential and continues to impact countless lives to this day. Despite facing his own battle with alcoholism, Parkhurst dedicated himself to helping others struggling with addiction, becoming an instrumental figure in the recovery movement.

Parkhurst’s journey to sobriety began in the early 1930s when he found himself in a desperate state due to his alcohol dependency. Through a chance encounter with William D. Silkworth, a physician who specialized in addiction, Parkhurst was introduced to the concept of alcoholism as a disease. This encounter laid the foundation for Parkhurst’s understanding of the nature of addiction, leading him to seek out and connect with others who shared similar struggles.

In 1935, Parkhurst’s path crossed with Bill W. (William Griffith Wilson), another alcoholic searching for a solution. Together, they embarked on a mission to help themselves and others recover from alcoholism. Parkhurst’s personal experiences and his deep understanding of the challenges of addiction played a crucial role in shaping the principles and program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Parkhurst’s influence within AA extended beyond his early collaboration with Bill W. He played a significant role in writing the Big Book, AA’s foundational text, and was responsible for the inclusion of the now-famous “Twelve Traditions.” These traditions emphasized the importance of unity, humility, and anonymity within the fellowship, providing a framework that has allowed AA to thrive and expand worldwide.

Despite his significant contributions, Parkhurst faced personal struggles during his later years. He experienced periods of relapse and suffered from deteriorating health, leading to his passing in 1954. However, his legacy and impact on the recovery community remain indelible. Today, his name is remembered with deep respect and gratitude as one of the founding members of Alcoholics Anonymous, an organization that has provided hope and healing to millions of individuals worldwide.

Henry G. “Hank” Parkhurst’s journey from addiction to recovery and his unwavering dedication to helping others laid the groundwork for the principles and practices of Alcoholics Anonymous. His commitment to honesty, compassion, and service continues to inspire those in the recovery community, reinforcing the belief that recovery is possible and that there is hope for anyone seeking a life free from the grip of addiction.

Chuck C. from Laguna Beach, CA doing his workshop “A New Pair of Glasses” at the Pala Mesa Retreat – January 1975

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Dealing with disappointments and failures while in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction can be disheartening, but it’s important to approach them as opportunities for growth and self-reflection. First and foremost, it is crucial to practice self-compassion and avoid self-blame. Recovery is a challenging process, and setbacks are a natural part of it. Instead of dwelling on the disappointment or failure, it can be helpful to focus on what can be learned from the experience. Reflecting on the triggers, circumstances, or choices that led to the disappointment can provide valuable insights into areas that need further attention and development in the recovery journey.
Tonight, we talk about dealing with disappointments and failures

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The Route Forward: Healthy Habits to Promote Sobriety

by Rufus C.
rufus@recoveringworks.com

Recovering from addiction is never a straightforward process, and a life of sobriety is often hard-won, but with a few healthy habits, it’s possible to set firm foundations and maintain a substance-free lifestyle for the long term. Today, Recovered shares some helpful guidance to assist you as you work toward healing yourself from the inside out.

Stress Relief

For many of us, substances are a means to escape from stressful lifestyles. Stress is, in itself, a common trigger for a relapse, so it’s important to find alternative methods to help you cope. This could mean immersing yourself in the creative arts, working up a sweat at the gym, or simply spending more time with good friends. Here are a couple of ideas:

• Meditation: There are several different forms of meditation, each with its own techniques and benefits. Spend some time researching how these can help you to cope with stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts, and pick one that you feel suits your circumstances.

• Gardening: There is plenty of evidence to suggest that gardening can be effective in helping an individual maintain sobriety. It’s also a surprisingly effective way to keep fit and can help to promote healthy eating.

• Reading: It’s amazing the difference a good book can make to our lives. The act of reading can slow our minds and help us to process events constructively. Take time to browse recommendations to see if any of the recent fiction releases appeal to you.

• Treatment: iIt takes courage to ask for help, and there are plenty of drug rehabilitation centers out there that can help you get and stay sober. These centers offer a variety of treatment methods and payment options, as well.

Just remember that some stress-busting pursuits can create stress cycles of their own (video games, for example). To avoid these, try to focus your energies on activities that will give you a sense of long-term achievement.

Physical Health

Our physical state is inextricably linked to our mood and desire to use substances. If you want to break the cycle (or keep it broken), your body is a great place to start.

• Sleep: Poor sleep leads to irritability, poor focus, and sometimes unwanted cravings. If you can aim for over 8 hours per night, you are likely to find that you have more control over urges and a generally more pleasant frame of mind.

• Exercise: The role of exercise in overcoming addiction is well documented. Studies have found that regular exercise increases abstinence rate by 95% as well as mitigating factors (such as anxiety), which contribute towards increased use.

• Diet: It’s difficult to overstate the importance of diet in affecting our mood, mental health, and energy levels. Try to lean toward foods that are linked to decreases in depression (such as bananas, avocados, beans, and carrots). This may help you to break the cycle that leads to substance use.

Environment

Our surroundings play a huge role in affecting how we feel and what we might crave. This means avoiding places and people who might spark unwanted urges. If you can eliminate the chance of feeling a certain way, you won’t need to deal with the feeling when it arises.

Additionally, you want to keep your home environment as stress-free as possible. You can start by keeping organized and decluttering when possible. Consider also refreshing your space, letting in more natural light, and even investing in a few plants.

Next, look at your office space, and try to digitize any paper records and create storage practices to reduce mess. If you work from home, gauge your setup to ensure it’s conducive to focus and productivity. An ergonomic desk and chair, working technology, and plenty of light will all make a difference.

Staying sober is by no means an easy feat. It takes hard work, discipline, and determination to cut out toxic habits and toxic people and replace them with a new, clearer way of living. But it is possible, and even if you’re taking small steps, you can be sure you’re stepping toward a brighter future.

Recovered is here to help you on the road toward sobriety. If you have any questions, we’d love to hear from you!

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Building healthy relationships is a fundamental aspect of any 12-step program’s success. Firstly, one of the key principles is honesty, and this forms the foundation for establishing healthy relationships. People in recovery are encouraged to be transparent about their struggles, experiences, and emotions, creating an environment of trust and understanding. Through sharing personal stories, individuals develop empathy and compassion for one another, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

Tonight, we talk about Building Healthy Relationships

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Finding meaning and purpose in life is a vital aspect of the recovery journey from drug and alcohol addiction. Substance abuse often leaves individuals feeling lost, disconnected, and devoid of purpose. However, in recovery, rediscovering a sense of meaning can be a transformative and empowering experience. When individuals identify and pursue their passions, values, and goals, it provides a strong foundation for lasting sobriety.

Tonight, we talk about Finding Meaning and Purpose in Recovery

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Addressing fears and anxieties is a significant aspect of the recovery process. The first step is to acknowledge and accept these emotions as a natural part of the healing journey. In the supportive environment of a 12-step program, individuals can find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. Sharing fears and anxieties with trusted peers and sponsors can alleviate the burden and provide validation, as others can relate to similar experiences.

Tonight, we talk about fears and anxieties

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At Recovered Podcast, we know that financial troubles can serve as a significant barrier for those navigating recovery from addiction. Whether you’re struggling to find work, overcome debt, or get a loan with damaged credit, these financial hurdles can seem daunting. The good news is that financial recovery is possible, and there are steps you can take to make the process easier. If you’re ready to take control of your finances and get back on track, check out the following tips!

Network to Uncover Job Opportunities

Networking is crucial if you want to land employment after addiction. Connecting with professionals in your desired field can help you gain insight into the industry, learn about job openings, and even secure job offers. A great way to make a lasting impression at networking events is to hand out personalized business cards, giving your new contacts a tangible reminder of your interaction. You can enhance your content with business card designs based on pre-made, customizable templates. Online graphic design tools will help you create personalized business cards that represent your unique professional brand.

Pick Up Side Hustles and Odd Jobs

If you’re on the hunt for a job but you need money now, consider picking up a side hustle. Espressofied suggests a variety of options that can fit your interests and schedule. For example, you could drive for ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft, walk dogs, housesit, or even sell your homemade crafts online. And if you have a skill that you can teach, such as playing music or dancing, you can offer lessons to earn money while sharing your interests with others. These jobs can provide flexible schedules, allowing you to work at your own pace while building skills and gaining work experience.

Improve Your Financial Literacy

Financial literacy refers to the knowledge and skills required to make informed and effective decisions regarding money management. It involves understanding basic financial concepts and practices, including debt management, saving, and investing. By educating yourself on these topics, you can make informed decisions that will significantly improve your financial situation. You can improve your financial literacy through books, online courses, workshops, and one-on-one meetings with financial advisors.

Take Advantage of Government Programs

Government programs can be a huge help as you work to find your financial footing. For example, the Housing Choice Voucher program, formerly known as Section 8, is a federal program that helps low-income families and individuals access affordable housing through rental assistance. If you want to go back to school to advance your career prospects, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) program may help you pay for college by providing grants, loans, or work-study opportunities. Career Karma recommends filling out the FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal aid. These are just two examples of the resources that are available to you, so be sure to do your own research as well!

Create a Strict Budget

If money is tight, creating a strict budget is essential to regaining control over your financial health. Start by noting down your recurring bills, including rent, utilities, and other fixed expenses. Then, keep track of your spending for at least one month, right down to the dollar. This will help you identify areas where you may be overspending so you can make adjustments and improve your financial situation. Be sure to include debt repayment in your budget so you can start making progress toward becoming debt-free.

Recovering from addiction can be incredibly challenging, especially when facing financial hurdles. By taking the necessary steps, such as networking, picking up side hustles, educating yourself on good financial practices, and sticking to a strict budget, you can get back on track and achieve your financial goals!

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, motivation, support, or tangible resources, check out Recovered Podcast, an unofficial Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) podcast!

Spirituality plays a pivotal role in the journey of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction within a 12-step program. It offers you a profound sense of purpose, connection, and guidance as you navigate the challenges of overcoming addiction. One of the fundamental principles of many 12-step programs is the recognition of a higher power or a spiritual force. This acknowledgment allows you to surrender your egos, embrace humility, and seek support beyond your own limited abilities. By developing a spiritual foundation, you can find solace, hope, and strength in times of struggle, knowing that you are not alone in your journey.

Tonight, we talk about the importance of spirituality.

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Larry S. from Atlanta, GA and Christian P. from Atlanta, GA doing a Big Book study in McKenzie Bridge, OR – March 6th-8th 2009

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