by Meghan Rizzo

Created on: June 11, 2009

Overcoming addiction or alcoholism is cause for celebration in itself and there are some gifts that are simply perfect for celebrating a birthday, holiday, or sobriety anniversary. These gifts are inspirational and life affirming. Addiction is often a matter of life and death, and the proper gift will show your loved one your gratitude for his or her making the choice to live clean. Following are some suggestions for every price range.

A Journal
Recovery is an ongoing process and a great degree of introspection is required for success. Addicts and alcoholics are encouraged to look into themselves and discover the reasons behind their choice to 'self-medicate' or escape reality. As they recover, it is helpful to keep written track of milestones and successes in the fight against addiction.

A quality journal is a wonderful gift to help aid in the healing process, as well as make it more pleasurable. Some journals come with inspirational pictures and quotes, others with guided writing exercises specifically geared to promote positive thinking. These can be found in most major bookstores. Add some fancy writing implements and you have a gift that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Inspirational/Motivational Books

Bookstores devote entire sections to these genres, so you will certainly be able to locate one or a few works that reflect your loved one's personality and interests. Popular motivational authors include Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle, and Rhonda Byrne, but there are countless more authors outside the mainstream who have written valuable self-help books as well. Take your time in browsing and you will surely find something that seems it was written specifically for your loved one.

An Indoor Garden

There are few things more life-affirming than tending to life itself. Plants have a positive effect on the psyche, as does taking care of them and watching them thrive.

An indoor garden kit is a unique and meaningful gift. Starter kits are sold on specialized websites such as http://www.herbkits.com/index.html and http://www.aerogardenstore.com/promotion/index.php?p romoName=catalog&pageName=homepage&r=1. Some can be found on http://www.amazon.com/ as well. These have a wide price range and there are many types of plants and flowers from which to choose.

A Health Club Membership

Exercise is crucial to maintaining not only physical health, but mental health as well. It releases endorphins and provides an outlet for stress and nervous energy. Recovering addicts and alcoholics are always encouraged to take part in physical activities.

A membership to a health club is a thoughtful gift, however it can be pricey. For a more affordable alternative, look into the offerings at your local recreation facilities. Local recreation centers usually offer classes such as dance, Yoga, Pilates, and aerobics at deeply discounted prices.

Though it might seem odd to give pointed gifts to recovered addicts or alcoholics, the effort to honor a person's choice to overcome addiction will be appreciated. Too often, we take for granted the hardships such individuals have faced and the strength and willpower it takes for them to live clean (particularly with regard to those who have recently recovered). Don't be shy about showing your loved one that you appreciate his or her desire to stay healthy and positive. Even when overcome, addiction is a lifelong struggle and support and encouragement from others are crucial to winning the fight.

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