Recovery and Wellness Series: A BCH, OSMP and Living Color Healing partnership

The path to recovery relating to chronic pain and/or opioid and other substance use disorders can be full of obstacles. But there is one powerful recovery ally that is freely accessible to all and provides research-backed wellness benefits: Nature.

BCH’s PILLAR Program, in partnership with Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks (OSMP) and Living Color Healing, hosts a free Recovery and Wellness Series to help local residents discover the meaningful healing value of nature from a recovery perspective. The series, which started in May 2021 and takes place on City of Boulder OSMP lands, consists of gatherings meant to create safe, non-judgmental spaces, where those in recovery can find community and support around a sober lifestyle.

As recovery coach and series facilitator Brian Klink of Living Color Healing explained, most addictions are driven by a desire to avoid chronic pain or painful emotions of shame and inadequacy, which leads to isolation and a “relentless search for whatever brings pleasure and makes us feel alive.” In contrast, nature offers complete and unconditional acceptance. For his clients and himself, he says, “Nature is the ultimate come-as-you-are sanctuary. We can just relax, breathe and open up all five senses: hearing, sight, touch, smell, and taste.” Over time, holistic mind-body-spirit experiences in the outdoors provide deeper satisfaction than the passing relief experienced with addiction, he adds.

Watch a short introduction video about the series
This short video will introduce you to Brian Klink and Jim Veraldi, peer facilitators of the Recovery and Wellness Series, as well as OSMP staff member David Ford. Watch now.

Upcoming Dates for Recovery and Wellness Series:
March 18 | May 20 | June 3 and 17

Learn more and register here.