By Matt Gardiner
@recoveryroadmap.me
In This Article:
The holiday season is upon us once again.
And while Christmas can be a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness – for many individuals, it can also be a time when alcohol flows freely at gatherings and events.
Choosing to stay alcohol-free during this festive period comes with a plethora (great word) of benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages of embracing sobriety during the holidays and offer practical tips on how to navigate social situations without the need for that adult-pop.
Key benefits of Staying Alcohol-Free
Clarity & Presence.
One of the immediate benefits of staying alcohol-free is the clarity of mind and presence in the moment.
Enjoying the festivities with a clear head allows you to fully engage in conversations, savor the delicious flavors of holiday meals, and create (and actually remember) lasting memories.
Improved Health.
Let’s face it, the holiday season often brings an abundance of rich, indulgent foods.
By abstaining from alcohol, you not only reduce empty calorie intake but also support your overall health.
Alcohol-free choices also lead to better digestion, better sleep quality (read more on how to improve your sleep here), and increased energy levels, overall.
Emotional Well-being.
Alcohol is a depressant, and carried-away consumption may bring up feelings of anxiety or sadness.
Choosing sobriety during the holidays can contribute to enhanced emotional well-being, allowing you to fully experience the joy and warmth of the season.
$ave money.
The cost of alcohol can add up quickly, especially during the holiday season because parties and gatherings are frequent.
By opting for an alcohol-free celebration, you not only save money on expensive cocktails or bottles of wine but also avoid potential financial stress that comes with impulsive or excessive spending.
Stronger Relationships.
Let’s be honest, here. Alcohol often leads to misunderstandings and…”modified behavior” (to put it politely) in social settings.
Staying alcohol-free promotes clear communication and helps to build stronger, more genuine connections with friends and family.
You’ll be able to engage in meaningful conversations without the interference of “alcohol-induced misunderstandings”.
Empowerment & Control.
Choosing to abstain from alcohol during the holidays is a powerful act of self-control.
It demonstrates your ability to make conscious decisions about your well-being and can empower you to resist external pressures.
This sense of control can extend beyond the holiday season, positively impacting other areas of your life.
What a great way to end off 2023, and to then kick off 2024!!
Now, I know what you may be thinking…”easier said than done!” or “how do I stay alcohol-free during the season that is synonymous with drinking?!”
Well, dear reader, I offer you read this next section on…
How to Stay Alcohol-Free During the Holidays!
Be Clear with Your Intentions.
Before attending holiday events, establish your intention to stay alcohol-free.
Remind yourself of the benefits and the positive impact it will have on your overall well-being.
Communicate Your Choice.
This is SO important.
Inform friends and family about your decision to stay alcohol-free.
This not only sets expectations but also encourages their support.
True friends will respect your choice and may even join you in embracing a sober celebration.
Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Options.
(This is key for myself, personally). To avoid feeling left out, bring your favorite non-alcoholic beverages to gatherings.
This ensures you have appealing choices that can be enjoyed just as much as traditional holiday drinks.
Engage in Alcohol-Free Activities.
Suggest and participate in activities that don’t revolve around alcohol.
Whether it’s playing board games, taking a winter stroll, or enjoying a holiday movie binge-watch-fest, there are plenty of festive alternatives.
Find/create a Support System.
Connect with others who are also choosing to stay alcohol-free.
Having a support system can be crucial during the holiday season, providing encouragement and understanding.
Practice Mindfulness.
Stay present in the moment and be mindful of your surroundings.
This can help you resist the temptation to reach for a drink out of habit or social pressure.
Check in with your breathing.
If you are finding yourself doing shallow chest breathing, or holding your breath all together – take 3 deep, full, abdomen breaths.
Keep your breath low & slow.
Embracing an alcohol-free holiday season is a decision that can bring numerous benefits to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
By prioritizing clarity, health, and genuine connections, you can make this festive time truly memorable. So, raise a glass—filled with a delicious non-alcoholic beverage—to a holiday season that celebrates the joy of sobriety.
On a final note, as we move into 2024, I am finding that alcohol is getting pushed aside like cigarrettes have been over these past 10 years.
And it’s about time!
Alcohol is no longer the “cool kid”. You will be just fine without it. In fact, you’ll be far better off, take it from me!
So cheers to a healthier, happier, and more meaningful celebration!
Merry Christmas & Happy 2024, y’all.
Matt Gardiner is a Sober Coach from Edmonton, AB that helps high-functioning drinkers change their relationship with alcohol without needing to join AA or go into rehab. Learn more about Matt’s services HERE
“It’s not alcohol that gets you – it’s your story about alcohol that gets you!”
Recent Comments