Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and it’s time to start planning that special day together. For those in recovery, dating can be especially tough because many people’s go-to idea is going out for drinks. There are also those who enjoy going clubbing or bar hopping to check out the scene. But when you’re steering clear of alcohol, those aren’t exactly good options that promote ongoing recovery. You’ve worked too hard in drug and alcohol rehab to risk relapse. Instead you have to come up with other things to do sans alcohol to make it a fun and memorable night.
And date nights aren’t just for those who are single. Married couples can benefit from a night out together as well to continue building their relationship and feel more connected to one another. A date night can get you away from the kids for a while so you can focus on your relationship with each other. Here are some simple ideas of how you can spend an enjoyable – and alcohol-free – time together:
- Take a walk
This sounds pretty simple and boring, but it can be very romantic. California has miles of beautiful coastline and walking trails to enjoy. There are also a plethora of national and state parks, forests, and nature preserves where you can go hiking. Hold hands and take in the sights while you enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Spend time just talking and connecting with each other free from the draw of electronics. You can bring your phone in case of an emergency, but keep it tucked away and relax while being disconnected for a while.
- Have a picnic
Instead of going to a restaurant where alcohol is readily available and the temptation may be greater, pack your own picnic dinner. You can have sparkling grape juice rather than champagne. Whip up some of your favorite dishes that travel well and throw in some candles for added romance. You could take a walk beforehand to get the perfect spot where you can cozy up and enjoy your meal together. There are lots of great look-out points in California where you can stare at the ocean, gaze out over the cityscape, or take in the majestic mountains. Pick a spot that’s meaningful to you.
- Go to a movie
There are some classic date ideas that withstand the test of time. Going to the movies is one of them. Most theaters don’t serve alcohol, so there’s less temptation and less of a chance that you’ll be surrounded by people who have been drinking. Enjoy the closeness of each other and laughing (or screaming) together as the movie unfolds. It will also give you something to talk about afterward so you’ll automatically have common ground to discuss that doesn’t involve work, kids, or recovery.
- Get coffee
Go to a coffee bar instead of a regular bar. The oversized chairs are more comfortable than bar stools and the environment is much more relaxing. Sip a hot drink while getting to know one another. Even better, find a coffee shop that has an assortment of books, antiques, or games to keep you entertained. Some also have live entertainment such as acoustic musicians, comedians, or poetry slams. Learn how to spend downtime together without feeling the need to have an alcoholic drink in hand.
- Check out local events
Is your town having a fair or special event? Is there a concert, art showing, restaurant tour, or other exhibit going on? Keep your eyes and ears open for activities that sound fun and interesting. You may be daring and try something you’ve never done before. You can enjoy checking things out together, discussing whatever is going on, and making memories. Research ahead of time to make sure there won’t be alcohol or to see if you can avoid these areas.
- Go bowling
Be silly and laugh at one another’s uncanny ability to always get the ball in the gutter at the last minute, or to knock down all but a certain pin. Bowling is a way to be somewhat active and you can spice things up with a little friendly competition. Laughing can boost your mood and allow you to see the less serious side of one another. And if bowling turns out to be something you really enjoy or are good at, you could consider joining a league to give yourself something to do and work at.
- Take a class together
Part of recovery involves trying new things and developing hobbies. You can incorporate this into your date night by finding a class you want to take together. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try ballroom dancing, learn to cook a certain style, or paint a picture that doesn’t look like it was made by a kindergartener. Be adventurous and learn something new together. You may find it’s something you really enjoy and want to keep doing. It also stretches your mind and can help you get out of a rut.
Date night doesn’t have to involve drinking at all. If you’re nervous or stressed beforehand, take a few minutes to meditate and engage in deep breathing to calm yourself. Do something that helps you to clear your mind and focus. Make Valentine’s Day or any date one that you remember and that doesn’t test the limits of your addiction recovery.
If you’re struggling with drinking and having trouble stopping on your own, entering Chapters Capistrano, an alcohol rehab center near Malibu, can help. With customized treatment plans to meet your individual needs and variety of holistic and therapeutic activities, you can start your journey to long-term recovery. Contact Chapters Capistrano at 949-276-2886 today.
