Finding Your Footing in Mid-January

The glitter of New Year’s Eve has faded. The resolutions set on January 1st are starting to feel a little heavier. We are in the thick of January—often called the “Monday of months”—and for those of us in recovery, this can be a tricky time. The adrenaline of the holidays is gone, leaving a quiet space where cravings or loneliness can sometimes creep in.

But here is the good news: Denver’s recovery community does not hibernate.

Whether you are seeking the quiet contemplation of a yoga mat, the loud laughter of a coffee shop meetup, or the structured support of a 12-step meeting, this week (January 11–17, 2026) is packed with opportunities to connect. At the Art Center, we believe that recovery isn’t just about removing substances; it’s about adding life. It’s about finding “your people” and your passion.

Here is your curated guide to navigating the sober landscape of Denver and the surrounding metro area this week.

Featured Sober Events: January 11 – 17, 2026

This week is heavy on creative and somatic (body-focused) recovery. If you are tired of talking and want to do something, check these out.

1. Sunday, Jan 11: Open Studio with Colorado Artists in Recovery (CAiR)

• Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Colorado Artists in Recovery (Check local listings for specific studio location, often rotating near 40th & York)
• The Vibe: Creative Fellowship.
• Why You Should Go: Sundays can be hard. The “Sunday Scaries” are real, even in sobriety. CAiR hosts a recurring “Open Studio” on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month. This is an all-pathways fellowship event open to anyone 16+ in recovery. You don’t need to be Picasso; you just need to be willing to pick up a brush. Supplies are provided, and the atmosphere is zero-pressure. It’s the perfect way to start your week with intention rather than anxiety.
• Cost: Free (Registration recommended).

2. Monday, Jan 12: Candlelight Trauma-Informed Yoga

• Time: 6:15 PM – 7:15 PM
• Location: Hosted by The Phoenix / CAiR (Denver Metro locations vary, check The Phoenix app)
• The Vibe: Grounding and Safe.
• Why You Should Go: If you feel “buzzing” anxiety in your chest, this is for you. Taught by certified instructors like Maggie Barfoot, this class is specifically designed for bodies that have experienced trauma and addiction. Unlike a high-intensity power flow, this class focuses on interoception—learning to feel safe inside your own skin again. It is a “come as you are” environment. No tight Lululemon gear required—just wear sweatpants and bring an open mind.
• Cost: Free (Requires 48 hours of sobriety).

3. Wednesday, Jan 14: Zen of Recovery

• Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Zen Center of Denver (Citizens Park area)
• The Vibe: Contemplative and Deep.
• Why You Should Go: Sometimes the “God” language in traditional 12-step rooms can be a barrier. If you are looking for a Buddhist perspective on the 12 Steps or general recovery, this is a fantastic group. It typically begins with 25 minutes of meditation (instruction provided) followed by a group discussion. It’s not an AA meeting, but it complements any program you are working.
• Note: In-person only.

4. Saturday, Jan 17: “The Art of Recovery” & Sterling Community Social

• Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Art) / 4:00 PM (Social)
• Location: Advocates for Recovery (Westminster & Sterling locations)
• The Vibe: Expressive and Social.
• Why You Should Go: Saturday nights are the “danger zone” for many in early sobriety. Instead of white-knuckling it at home, head to Westminster for the “Art of Recovery” session. Hosted by Jane Settle, it’s a space to process emotions through art. If you are up north near Sterling, the Community Social starts at 4 PM with karaoke, crafts, and games.

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Meeting Spotlight: Where to Find Support This Week

Events are great, but sometimes you need the brass tacks of a meeting. Here are the best local spots to hit this week for AA, NA, and SMART Recovery.

For the “Young & Sober” Crowd (AA)

• The Meeting: Denver Young People’s
• When: Friday, Jan 16 @ 8:00 PM
• Where: 2122 S. Lafayette St, Denver
• Why: If you are under 40 (or just young at heart) and feel like you don’t relate to the “old timers,” this is the room for you. The energy is high, the coffee is strong, and the fellowship usually spills out into a diner or coffee shop afterward. It’s a great place to find friends who actually want to do things on the weekend.

For the Science-Minded (SMART Recovery)

• The Meeting: SMART Recovery Denver #6744
• When: Thursday, Jan 15 @ 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Denver (Check SMARTrecovery.org for exact building code, usually near Cap Hill)
• Why: SMART focuses on tools, not powerlessness. If you are struggling with a specific craving or behavior this week, this meeting will give you a concrete worksheet or cognitive tool (like the CBA or ABC tool) to handle it. It is cross-talk friendly, meaning you can get direct feedback from peers.

For the Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Member

• The Meeting: The Breakfast Club
• When: Sunday, Jan 11 @ 10:00 AM
• Where: 1510 Glen Ayr Dr. #12, Lakewood
• Why: Start your Sunday right. This is an Open, Discussion-based meeting that is also wheelchair accessible and—wait for it—dog friendly. Bringing your emotional support pup to a meeting? That’s a win-win.

For the Virtual/Homebody

• Meeting: Principles to Freedom (NA)
• When: Sunday, Jan 11 @ 6:30 PM
• Format: Zoom Only (ID: 870 622 1221)
• Why: Snow in the forecast? Just tired? There is no shame in hitting a meeting from your couch. This LGBTQ+ friendly meeting is known for being welcoming and safe.

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Tips for Attending Your First Event

If you are reading this and feeling a knot of anxiety about showing up to The Phoenix or Art Center Co alone, we want to stop you right there. Here is the reality:

1. Everyone was the “new guy” once. The person leading the yoga class? They had a Day 1. The artist teaching the class? They remember shaking in their first meeting.
2. You don’t have to talk. In almost every recovery setting, “I’m just listening today” is a complete sentence. You can show up, sit in the back, drink the bad coffee, and leave. That still counts as a win.
3. Bring a prop. If you are nervous, bring a notebook or a sketchbook. It gives you something to do with your hands and makes you look busy if you want to avoid small talk until you’re ready.

Your Next Step: Don’t just bookmark this page. Pick ONE event from the list above. Put it in your phone calendar with a 30-minute alert. If you need a ride or someone to walk in with, reach out to us at Art Center Co, or check the local “Sober Denver” Facebook groups to find a buddy.

Recovery is happening in Denver right now. We saved you a seat.