Ways to Get a Drug-Free High
Like most people, you probably think the only way to “get high” is by taking drugs or drinking alcohol. It may come as a surprise that science has proven it’s possible to get high from exercise, laughter, music, and many other things life has to offer.
What’s the Science Behind Getting High Without Drugs?
Not everyone is looking to get high, but many find themselves addicted to the substances that can cause that feeling of euphoria. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people use drugs for several reasons:
- To feel good
- To stop feeling bad
- To escape
- To perform better at work or school
- To feed a curiosity
- To fit in with peers
There are many other reasons, but the important thing to remember is that getting high on drugs can lead to addiction. That’s because after taking illicit or prescription drugs and drinking alcohol, your brain eventually gets used to the feel-good effects. In response, you start taking larger amounts of drugs or using them more frequently to bring that feeling back.
Before you know it, you’re in a downward spiral of substance use disorder (SUD), which can put you at risk of overdose and even death.
Fortunately, there are other ways to get high naturally. Like the use of drugs, these activities also release “happy hormones” in the reward center of the brain. In turn, your mood and energy are boosted, making you feel good without the risks associated with using drugs and drinking alcohol.
Are you struggling with a substance use disorder? Zinnia offers various levels of care for drug abuse and alcohol addiction at treatment centers throughout the United States. Call our helpline at (855) 430-9439 for immediate assistance.
10 Drug-Free Ways to Get High Naturally
You can get high or experience an intoxicated feeling just by living life to the fullest. Consider long-distance runners who experience the “runners high.” This natural feeling of euphoria happens when the body releases dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin.
Here’s a list of suggested ways to get high naturally without drugs:
1. Exercise
Any form of exercise releases endorphins that make you feel good. It’s an excellent way to get a natural high while getting fit. Whether you prefer going to the gym, running, or doing yoga, getting involved in low-intensity activities or extreme sports helps you both physically and mentally.
2. Eating Healthy Foods
Along with exercising, maintaining a healthy diet is essential to support your bodily functions. In addition, eating healthy foods can improve your mood and give you a sense of well-being. Focus your food choices on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
3. Meditation and Mindfulness
Practicing meditation and mindfulness is one of the best approaches to clearing your mind. When you focus on your breath or a mantra (a repeated word or phrase), the release of serotonin can greatly reduce stress and anxiety, making you feel more relaxed and at peace.
4. Laughter
Laughter is a natural stress reliever and can give you a feeling of euphoria as it releases endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. Whether you watch a funny movie or spend time with friends who make you laugh, laughter can help improve your mood.
5. Listening to Music
Listening to music can stimulate the brain, releases dopamine, and triggers feelings of happiness and joy. Whether you like upbeat music or calming tunes, music is another way to help you feel better and boost your mood.
6. Dancing
Dancing is a fun way to release endorphins and get a natural high. Take a dance class or simply dance around your living room. Either way, moving your body to music is a good mood booster. Also, it keeps your body in good shape, especially if you don’t like difficult exercise.
7. Nature Walks
Spending time in nature is something anyone can do to reduce anxiety and depression. It doesn’t matter if you take a short stroll in the park, a long hike in the woods, or a zipline in the mountains. Being surrounded by nature is both calming and relaxing.
8. Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises can help calm the body and mind to further promote relaxation. This can be done as part of meditation or whenever you just need a moment to reduce stress. Take deep, slow breaths in and slowly exhale out to help you feel more relaxed.
9. Spending Time with Loved Ones
Spending time with loved ones can trigger the release of oxytocin, a chemical that many call the “love hormone.” You can boost your mood by simply hanging out with your dearly loved family members, friends, and even pets.
10. Helping Others
This may be one of the least recognized ways to improve your mood, but helping others can give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction, which can lead to a natural high. Whether you volunteer at a local charity or help a friend in need, doing good for others in need can also make you feel joyful.
Zinnia Health provides substance use and mental health services to help you get on the road to recovery. To learn more about our addiction treatment programs, call (855) 430-9439.
How To Tell if You Have a Substance Abuse Disorder
Realizing that you or a loved one has a substance use disorder isn’t always that obvious. However, a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicated that more than 41 million people needed treatment in 2020. What’s more, 97% don’t think drug abuse and alcoholism treatment programs will help, and there are many other barriers to seeking treatment for SUD.
Knowing the most common physical, behavioral, and psychological warning signs of addiction is the first step to getting help for yourself or someone you love:
Physical Signs of SUD
- Bloodshot eyes, large or small pupils
- Changes in appetite, including weight loss or weight gain
- Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns
- Poor physical appearance and personal grooming habits
- Runny nose or sniffling
- Slurred speech
- Tremors or impaired coordination
- Unusual breath or body odors
Behavioral Signs of SUD
- Relationship issues
- Secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Getting into legal trouble
- Neglecting work, school, or home responsibilities
- Decreased interest in spending time with family and friends
- No longer engaging in favorite activities and hobbies
- Financial problems
- Risky behavior (e.g., drunk driving, unprotected sex)
- Abuse drugs to avoid withdrawal symptoms
- Can’t stop using drugs
Psychological Signs of SUD
- Acting anxious or paranoid
- Lack of motivation
- Increased energy or nervousness
- Mood swings or angry outbursts
- Personality or attitude changes
The Surgeon General warns that changes in the areas of the brain can make it difficult to stop. For this reason, it’s vital to seek professional help for the physical and mental side effects of drug addiction.
Get High on Life and Take the Road to Recovery
Feeling high or intoxicated isn’t limited to drug use or drinking alcohol. There are so many other things you can do to boost your mood and make you feel better. If you or a loved one have been abusing drugs or alcohol to escape, avoid feeling bad, or other reasons, help is available.
At Zinnia Health, we offer a wide range of addiction treatment options and a rehab center near you. Taking that first step is only a phone call away, so don’t hesitate to call (855) 430-9439. One of our substance abuse professionals will inform you about our treatment process to get you started.