Sober October - sip by sip
As someone who has been alcohol free for a few weeks’ shy of two years, I am a big fan of Sober October! I love the idea of an alcohol break as this can be a great opportunity to reset and re-establish some healthy alcohol habits. People may have varying motivations for Sober October; but I think it can of real benefit for anyone who regularly drinks alcohol.
Going for a whole month without alcohol can be a challenge, that has nothing to do with any sense of physical dependency. Alcohol is such a big part of our culture and is ingrained into social events and a winding down mechanism to de-stress; that it can be a difficult thing for some of us to replace.
So if you are wanting to go sober this October, here are my top tips to help:
1. Be clear on your motivations for taking part. Improving sleep, supporting weight loss, and energy levels can form part of your health goals – but other ones may include saving money and enjoying hangover free weekends! Whatever they are, write them down and pin them somewhere you can see them throughout the month.
2. Plan a reward for yourself at the end of the month. No, I’m not talking about a big p*** up! But could be something you want to buy with the money you will have saved on alcohol.
3. Get some accountability. There are some great alcohol free coaches around who work with people who aren’t on the addiction route, but who want a break or to cut down. Alternatively, there may be group challenges you can join, or even get your partner or a close friend to join you.
4. Plan some alcohol-free social activities. October weekends could be a great chance to try something new, and even take advantage of using your Sunday mornings for something more active than normal (without a slightly groggy head)! A bike ride or country walk before brunch for example.
5. Plan ahead. There are so many alcohol free alternatives on the market now that you can find plenty of options that don’t necessarily mean soda and juice. If you are heading to an event that offers alcohol, it can help to know what options you like before you get there. I used to love my dry white wines and Cava; but personally, I find any alcohol free wines to be too sweet. Instead, I treat myself to alcohol free beer or Guiness. Even though I have never been into these before, I find that they give a sense of a treat, without giving me a load of sugar.
6. Journal. I recommend this to clients for a number of reasons, and when you are undertaking a challenge, it can be really helpful. Journaling doesn’t just allow you to log and track your wins along the way, but it is a vessel to express your emotions in. cathartic way. This is particularly helpful when you are used to drinking alcohol during times of stress, upset or even joy.
7. Book in some self care. Even if you are taking an alcohol break for positive reasons, there may be times when you feel a sense of deprivation. And if you are used to using alcohol to manage stress and negative emotions, this can be a great opportunity to explore some other self care options. Yoga nidra, sound baths, meditation, massage are some of my favourites!
At the end of the month, take some time to reflect on the experience. This will be easier to do if you have journaled throughout. Over the 31 days, chances are you have discovered something new, either about yourself, or new ways to unwind and socialise without alcohol.
And if you like the idea of challenges and accountability, make sure you join my free Autumn 7 Day Reset Challenge! This is 7 days with a meal plan, health challenges, workouts, yoga and prizes. We kick off 9th October, so make sure you join before then so you can use the shopping list for your recipes. See you soon!x