Author: Alex Thompson

How to Relax Without Alcohol: Build Lasting Calm in Sobriety

Each social event can become an opportunity to strengthen connections and create memorable experiences, no alcohol necessary. You’ve learned that your body has a natural ability to relax without alcohol, but knowing these techniques is only the first step. The real challenge is integrating them into your daily life. That’s where creating a clear vision comes in—visualizing exactly when and how you’ll apply these relaxation tools. By intentionally picturing these new habits in action, you train your brain to respond to stress with healthier behaviors.

It should be of great interest to anybody feeling “sober curious,” especially those who struggle to imagine how certain things will ever be FUN again – from holidays to social occasions.
When genuine connection is the priority, you’re more likely to build and maintain strong, meaningful friendships.
The idea of chanting affirmations might seem really out there but science backs up that it works.
Whether you want to take a break from drinking or you’re quitting alcohol for keeps, bring in some pros to help.

What is stress and how is it harmful?

This gives you a clear reason to avoid alcohol, and it’s also a gesture that’s generally appreciated. Jeanette Hu, AMFT, based in California, is a former daily drinker, psychotherapist, and Sober Curiosity Guide. She supports individuals who long for a better relationship with alcohol, helping them learn to drink less without living less. By the time you finally sink into the couch, all you want to do is switch off. The thought crosses your mind—just one drink to take the edge off. This arsenal of 25 stress-busters proves that a calm and collected you is absolutely achievable.

Cultivating Mindful Work Practices: Fostering Focus and Clarity Without Alcohol

As we begin to ease out of lockdowns, many of us are re-evaluating plenty of things. There’s no shortage of articles on the subject, and much of it is about deciding how much we actually want to get back to the “old normal.” It’s much the same when you give up alcohol. First off, while I been involved in social events and thoroughly enjoyed them, I know that there are some particularly “boozy” events coming up that I will actively avoid. Consider joining groups that don’t revolve around alcohol. This could be anything from sports teams to book clubs, where the primary focus is on a shared interest. �� Stay true to yourself and your journey with a little help from Jeff Warren’s Daily Trip on Commitment.

Volunteer to be the designated driver

Different forms of exercise provide different responses for different people, although Yoga has been shown to increase GABA activity and therefore help in calming anxiety. And the effects of exercise are cumulative, meaning they build up over time! I personally couldn’t imagine life without this stress relief form.

How can I decline alcohol at social events?

However, this is a lesson learned over time, and it can start with approaching your fears instead of avoiding them, according to experts. Sign up for CNN’s Adulthood, But Better newsletter series. Our seven-part guide has tips to help you make more informed decisions around personal finance, career, wellness and personal connections. Back when I used to drink (it still feels weird to say that!) I’d never pay much attention to them. I might have a little taste, but I was getting all my sugar from beer and wine. Earlier in this article, I mentioned how it’s good to know you’re always acting with clarity.

I don’t deny that I sometimes think about having A drink at some point. Only this weekend I saw people drinking some interesting looking cocktails in a new bar in my town, and thought that I’d like to try one one day. In time I might, but only once I have more time under my belt and total confidence that one would only mean one. In the early days of quitting alcohol, these things do feel different. But the general rule – for me at least – is that once I’ve done them a couple of times without booze, they feel completely normal, and the association is broken.

How much sleep do kids need? Plus how to help them sleep better

If you don’t have a regular doctor, see a primary care provider or visit a free health clinic near you. The NIAAA also offers pointers about resources for low- and no-cost treatment and support options, like getting in touch with your state’s agency for substance abuse help. If you have wanted to quit drinking alcohol but were hesitant to do so because you feared that the withdrawal symptoms would be too severe, you are not alone. Many people are afraid that if they quit drinking, withdrawal symptoms could be difficult to manage, or even dangerous. Knowing what helps with alcohol withdrawal can make the experience less uncomfortable and risky.

Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. No matter your situation, Dr. Das emphasizes the power of enlisting help as you embark on a life sans booze. The thing is, despite this, I’ve still lost over 30lbs on Weight Watchers and Slimming World since quitting drinking – and I’m broadly managing to keep it down despite my new fondness for all things sweet. I remember a Friday night quite recently when we’d had a decent week, the children were happy, and I was teeth-brushed-and-ready-for-bed by about 10pm. The thought of falling asleep with my book, then waking up to a free weekend with time for hobbies and relaxation may not be very “rock and roll,” but it made me incredibly happy.

Embracing Creativity to Combat Stress

In a society that often expects men to be stoic and unyielding, prioritizing mental health becomes essential. We will delve into the unique experiences that men may encounter with each mental health concern, providing context and understanding. Get ready to unleash your inner strength as we embark on this transformative journey to nurture your mental well-being. As a working professional, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health to excel in your career and maintain a fulfilling personal life. Let’s cultivate a healthy work-life balance so you can thrive in your professional journey. You may have tried to quit drinking alcohol and discovered that the symptoms you experienced were more severe than you anticipated.

On a physical level, stress challenges the body’s normal function balance, also known as homeostasis. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are the primary reason that many people relapse when they attempt to quit. In addition to doing inner work, you can use more immediate strategies to feel confident at events. In Gooch’s early days of sobriety, she would socialize at more familiar places or put on a “confidence playlist” before going out.