From Addiction to Redemption: My Journey of Recovery Through Nature and Purpose

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I wasn’t sure whether I should share something this personal a story of my life, struggles, relapses, and recovery. Part of me feared being judged. But I remembered something I learned long ago in rehab during our nightly “feeling-sharing” sessions. At first, I hated those moments so bad and it was so hard for me just to open my mouth to some random unknown people, but with months of time and practice, I realized how powerful it is to express your truth, let go of guilt, and accept yourself.

I’ve seen what addiction can do not just to individuals, but to families, homes, and entire lives. I’ve known people who’ve been through multiple divorces , people who lost their homes, their jobs, their entire money and savings and most painfully, their loved ones. I’ve seen friends lose their wives, their children, and themselves to the grip of addiction. Even some of my closest friends (R.I.P) , who stood beside me during the darkest times, are no longer here lives lost far too soon to overdoses and despair.

I’ve witnessed people hit rock bottom completely broken, homeless, hopeless, and alone. Addiction doesn’t care who you are or what you once had; it strips everything away.

But I’ve also seen the other side. I’ve seen people who once thought they were beyond saving turn their lives around. Some of them now dedicate their lives to helping others fight the same demons they once battled. They’ve become counselors, volunteers, mentors — living proof that redemption is possible. Their stories remind me that no matter how far someone falls, there is always a way back. And that gives me hope not just for myself, but for anyone still struggling. If my story can inspire even one person walking a similar path, then it’s worth sharing. So today, I’ve decided to open up this is a piece of my journey.

Hi Hive! I’m Ninja Bhujel from Nepal and this is the raw, honest story of how I am reclaiming my life after battling substance addiction for over 12 years.

For most of my youth, I was trapped in the vicious cycle of drug addiction. What started as curiosity eventually consumed me starting from marijuana I became dependent on hardcore substances, including heroin and got stuck in a lifelong Trap. My life spiraled out of control. I dropped out of college not once, but twice.I ruined my studies, my wonderful musical career , my loved ones and my precious life, I experienced multiple overdoses and faced moments where I truly didn’t want to live another day. Every attempt at recovery felt like climbing a mountain barefoot. Relapses were frequent, and despair often felt permanent.

But here's the truth: addiction may be powerful, but the human spirit is stronger.

A Turning Point: Embracing Nature and Movement

Two years ago, I made the conscious choice to fight back to push harder than ever before. I checked myself one more time into rehabilitation center, again, refusing to let relapse be the end of my story. What finally made the difference was the healing power of movement, travel, and nature.

I began trekking through Nepal’s majestic landscapes walking mountain trails, riding through serene valleys, and breathing in the fresh air of the Himalayas. There’s something deeply spiritual about standing beneath Mount Everest or listening to rivers flow it reminded me that life is bigger than my pain. Nature gave me peace when my mind was at war.

Giving Back: From Survivor to Volunteer

Recovery isn’t just about healing yourself it’s also about helping others rise. Today, I volunteer at rehabilitation centers, sharing my experience with others going through similar battles. I listen. I guide. I walk alongside them. It gives me purpose, and purpose is what keeps me grounded.

I know now that recovery isn’t a destination , it’s a lifelong journey. And I’m finally learning to love the process.

Finding Strength in Support

I wouldn’t be here without the people who stood by me. My family, my wife, friends, and the recovery community gave me the courage to believe in myself again. Their belief in me kept me going on days I wanted to give up.

And of course, Mother Nature has been my most unexpected therapist. The mountains, forests, and trails of Nepal have offered me a kind of healing no words can fully describe.

A Message to Anyone Struggling

If you’re in the dark right now if you’re tired, broken, addicted, or feel hopeless please hear this: don’t give up. There is always a brighter side. Trust in yourself. Trust in a higher power. Take one step at a time, even if it’s shaky. The light will come.

You are not alone. And your story doesn’t end here.

If you ever visit Nepal and love the Himalayas like I do, I’d be happy to guide you through the trails that helped save my life. Let’s walk towards recovery one step, one mountain, one moment at a time.