Healthy Living With ReGEN

ReGEN was created by Second Genesis clinicians to meet the educational, nutritional, physical, and psychological needs of Second Genesis clients. The program’s goals are to help clients: 1) cultivate a sense of self-worth; 2) improve physical and psychological fitness; 3) improve knowledge and application of living healthfully; and 4) gain real-world skills and certifications for future employment.

Full recovery from substance abuse and addiction requires far more than renouncing alcohol and/or drugs; it necessitates action in the form of lifestyle changes that are conducive to sustaining healthy habits. For many, this is one of the most difficult aspects of living in active recovery, as it’s extremely easy for them to substitute their drug of choice with sugary foods, which can exasperate mental illnesses and cause a decline in overall physical health. Second Genesis’ ReGEN: Recovery through Gardening, Exercise, and Nutrition program helps clients successfully navigate this transition by imparting knowledge and practical approaches to help them actively and consistently apply what they have learned.

Program participants acquire the skill to discern which foods make them feel better physically and psychologically. They taught to prepare healthy dishes on a budget; prepare foods creatively and in a manner that appeals to the senses; and to live an active lifestyle. Partnerships with companies and organizations such as Whole Foods, Eco, Inc., the Biophilia Foundation, Kids’ Café, and Au Bon Pain augment internal efforts to expand the program.

ReGEN addresses self care through behaviors, including eating, shopping, produce gardening, and exercising. Such activities make people feel good about who they are and increase confidence and self-esteem. These characteristics are often missing in persons who are struggling with addiction. The more clients get involved in positive, healthy activities, the better they feel about who they are and what they can do. Consequently, they are more likely to maintain active recovery throughout treatment and far beyond.