Aaron's Journey: How Service and Climate Change Shape Sobriety
We don't have to fix climate change, we have to fix ourselves, and I truly believe that recovery has given us the wonderful gift of taking a step back from the ego which is always saying more, more, more.
Can acts of service and climate change initiatives play a role in addiction recovery? In this episode of Recovery Elevator, hosts Paul Churchill and Kristopher Oyen sit down with Aaron, who shares his inspiring journey of sobriety. Aaron, 40, from South Carolina, took his last drink on September 15, 2021, and opens up about how being of service has been a cornerstone in his recovery.
He explains how helping others not only keeps him sober but also gives him a renewed sense of purpose. Paul adds that service releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—chemicals that enhance well-being and combat addiction. The discussion takes an unexpected turn as Paul introduces the idea that climate change could unite us in our recovery efforts. He suggests that collective action against climate change can foster community and healing.
Paul even encourages listeners to plant a tree and share their efforts on Instagram, highlighting how small actions can make a big difference. Aaron also touches on the challenges of navigating social situations while maintaining sobriety. He emphasizes the importance of intuition and having a plan, whether it's leaving early or bringing your own non-alcoholic drinks.
This episode is packed with valuable insights into the benefits of service, the surprising link between climate change and recovery, and practical advice for staying sober in social settings. Tune in to hear Aaron's story and gain a fresh perspective on how service and environmental activism can enrich your recovery journey.