by Lisa Frederiksen
Cathy Taughinbaugh, is a teacher, mom, writer and founder of TreatmentTalk.org. She has just released her new eBook, 101 Natural Highs for an Amazing Drug Free Life, so I contacted her to learn more about it…
Why did you write your ebook, 101 Natural Highs for an Amazing Drug Free Life?
I realized, after working on my own recovery from being addicted to the addict and reading about the recovery process, that it is imperative to replace the addiction with positive habits that could be your passion, a positive addiction or a natural high. The disease of addiction, unfortunately can go on for years, and the stress that it causes the family member is very unhealthy.
For a person recovering from the effects of drugs, alcohol or any addiction, there is a void left when the addiction is gone. It is imperative to fill that void with something you love which will help to keep you going in a positive direction. The point of the book is to give you ideas of things to do, where to start and links to find out more about the topic that you are interested in.
Who is this book for?
The focus of the book is for people who are in recovery from any addiction, but the book, as is true for many recovery principles, is applicable to anyone. It may be of interest to a young person who is just not sure what to do with themselves after they’ve been in recovery for a few weeks or months.
Someone older who is new to recovery or who has been in recovery for a while and may just need a new spark in their life might find the ideas useful. The ebook is also for parents or spouses who need tools to let go of their family member’s issues and to begin having fun again.
What is the benefit for the reader?
- Motivation to replace your past habits that have not served you well with positive habits that will bring you a healthy, interesting and joyful life.
- Reminders and new ideas that you can refer to on how to jumpstart your new life and open up a new way to live.
- Find ways to build your strength in all areas.
- The ebook is easy to read and to the point with links to get you started on making and keeping the positive change.
- 101 reminders that life can be creative, fun, and full of meaning and purpose.
Here are three examples of natural highs that are included in the book.
15. Go for a Run
If you are interested in stepping it up, go for a run. Running has many overall health benefits for both your body and mind, and with some discipline, it’s an easy sport to start, even if you start slowly. Plus, after you’ve bought a pair of good shoes, it’s free. When you’ve finished your run, you’ll really feel like you’ve done something. Run for your soul, and for the fitness of your spirit! Here’s a list of the top ten running sites from Love to Know.
35. Watch the Sunrise
Plan a morning to get up early and watch the sunrise. It’s a beautiful scene as you witness the start to a brand new day. Breath in the cool morning air as you sip your coffee or tea and know it’s too early to think about your tasks for the day. You just have to see the world before it gets too busy and feel the serenity of it all as the world awakens like a newborn child. Watch the sunrise as it reminds you that we can all have a new beginning, something so close to heaven.
88. Connect with Other People
Connecting with other people is the single most important thing we can do for our happiness. Care about other people by thanking them when appropriate, encourage others to follow their dreams and be polite. Listen empathetically by imagining you’re in another person’s shoes, and show interest by asking questions and withholding judgement. Ask how you can help others without worrying about what is in it for you. Finally, don’t forget to tune into and share your inner goodness. Check out Relationships That Nurture your Spirit for more.
For readers that don’t know you, tell us a little about yourself.
Before starting Treatment Talk, I was an elementary teacher for 14 years, mainly teaching 4th grade which I loved. Treatment Talk is my website and blog, which is sharing and support for addiction, treatment and recovery which started in 2010. I’m married and a mom to three children.
My daughter was a crystal meth addict as one point in her life, and the whole experience was a time for growth for our entire family. I wanted to share resources, opinions and the latest news regarding substance abuse and addiction to families struggling with this destructive disease through my website.
Cathy is giving away three free ebooks to readers that leave comments here on Breaking the Cycles, on Treatment Talk or Treatment Talk’s Facebook Page.
Click here to find out more about 101 Natural Highs for an Amazing Drug Free Life, by Cathy Taughinbaugh
Hi Lisa,
Thanks so much for the interview. It has been amazing connecting with you on your wonderful blog.
You are most welcome! It’s a wonderful book, Cathy, and will help so many people — not only those living drug and alcohol free, but their family members, as well. Thanks for writing it!!