For many recovering addicts, being clean and sober is more than just being abstinent, it is a serious way of life. It is a way of viewing the world and thinking, feeling and acting. And, recovery is fun! Going to meetings with friends, attending conventions, going on camping trips, the list goes on. Many people proudly express their gratitude and love for recovery. It shows up on bumper stickers, t-shirts and…skin.
Expressing Yourself Through Ink
Tattoos have been a form of self-expression for thousands of years. While tattoos have gotten a bad rap from society in the not so distant past, people who love ink know that a tattoo can be a work of art, a thing of beauty, and the ultimate form of self-expression.
Why Do People Get Recovery Tattoos
Many addicts adorn themselves with tattoos, and many of them choose to get tattoos that are inspired by or symbolize their recovery. There are so many reasons for this. Sometimes they are a reminder of what has been, sometimes an expression of gratitude and sometimes a symbol of their freedom from addiction. Many people choose a phrase or a symbol that expresses who they have become in their recovery. Here are seven awesome recovery tattoos that might get you inspired:
1. The Phoenix
The fiery bird, reborn from the ashes is possibly one of the best known symbols of rebirth and triumph over adversity. The Phoenix is a great example of what it means for some people to recover from addiction.
2. Never Let Your Fear Decide Your Fate
Many quotes serve as reminders to live in faith, not fear!
3. The Serenity Prayer
If you’ve got some room to spare, the serenity prayer is probably one of the best-known symbols of recovery. It is echoed in meetings all over the world and has saved many an addict in their time of need.
4. A Bird Flying Out Of A Cage
For so many, recovery means freedom. A bird flying from it’s cage is a poignant symbol that so many addicts in recovery can relate to.
5. Literary Quotes
For you bookworms out there, there is a wealth of literary quotes that make wonderful recovery tattoos, from Dr. Suess to this one, by E.E. Cummings:
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you truly are.” Well said.
6. The A.A. or N.A. Symbol
Many recovering addicts are incredibly grateful for the twelve step programs that have helped them achieve their ongoing recovery. There are some really artistic and creative adaptations of these enduring symbols of recovery. Many add other meaningful things like butterflies, compasses, flowers and favorite twelve step sayings.
7. One Day At A Time
This is probably the most used recovery quote of all time. It is probably one of the most popular recovery tattoos.
This list doesn’t come close to covering the many types of recovery tattoos you will find out there in the world. Many people simply choose symbols that remind them of where they came from, who they have become or words that matter to them. Common words you will see gracing the recovering addict’s skin include Resilience, Love, Blessed, Fighter, Survivor, Serenity, and Grateful.
Recovery tattoos are beautiful, meaningful works of art, and as an added bonus, they often cover up some of those bad decisions made back in active addiction!
If you are searching for information about a drug or alcohol rehab that offers multiple treatment options Broadway Treatment Center in an award winning facility located in Orange County California. Call us today at (714) 400-2048, or contact us online.
