In the persuit of pleasure
Oh Boy! The older I get the more I drink. Everyone who knows me always gifts me a bottle of gin. There was a time when I only needed one drink to relax and become the better version of myself. Nowadays, without thinking I pour myself a double. Of course my amygdala is loving the extra alcohol and in a heightened state of pleasure tricks my prefrontal cortex into having another one. This of course is the easiest way for me to achieve a state of liberation from all my worries and concerns. I agree and mix another gin and tonic in the persuit of a pleasurable experience grounded in wisdom (I am at home) compassion (I had a difficult week) and profound peace of mind (you have nothing else you need to do).
Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle
Tips for a healthier lifestyle suggest reducing your alcohol intake. There are a lots of reasons why we should adopt a alcohol free lifestyle. Maybe you want a healther body, improved sleep, to save money or you simply want to regain control over your drinking habits. Here are some tips will guide you on your journey towards a healthier lifestyle without feeling deprived or overwhelmed.
- Set a Clear Goal:
Begin by setting a specific and attainable goal for yourself. Determine the number of days per week you want to consume alcohol and establish limits for the number of drinks per occasion. Having a clear goal in mind will help you stay motivated and focused.
- Keep Track of Consumption:
Tracking your alcohol consumption is a powerful tool to increase self-awareness. Maintain a record of how much you drink each day or week. This will enable you to identify patterns, understand your drinking habits, and make necessary adjustments.
- Seek Non-Alcoholic Alternatives:
Explore non-alcoholic alternatives that satisfy your cravings and replace alcoholic beverages. Mocktails, flavored sparkling water, herbal tea, and other non-alcoholic options can provide a refreshing and enjoyable experience without the negative effects of alcohol.
- Plan Alcohol-Free Activities:
Engage in activities that do not revolve around alcohol. Organize social outings or gatherings centered on other interests such as going to the movies, trying a new hobby, or participating in physical activities like hiking or sports. This will shift the focus away from drinking and create new, alcohol-free experiences.
- Practice Moderation:
When you do choose to drink, practice moderation. Set limits for yourself and stick to them. Pace yourself, and alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones to reduce overall consumption. This mindful approach will help you maintain control over your alcohol intake.
- Build a Support System:
If reducing your alcohol intake feels challenging, seek support from friends, family, or a support group. Surrounding yourself with individuals who understand and support your goals can provide encouragement, accountability, and guidance throughout your journey.
- Identify Triggers:
Recognize the situations, emotions, or triggers that lead to excessive alcohol consumption. Identifying these triggers empowers you to develop strategies to avoid or manage them more effectively. This self-awareness will be crucial in maintaining a healthy relationship with alcohol.
Non Alcoholic Drinks
Once upon a time Friday night drinks started at 5pm. Go anywhere that serves booze now and the Happy hour signs out at 4pm. Its the creep factor. While its true that it may be 5pm somewhere in the world its best to keep your drinking until just before dinner around 6pm. Delaying the time you start drinking can decrease your alcohol intake and is a good place to start reigning in the alcohol right?
Although this may be helpful advice, I know that still want to have a drink in my hand when I get home so the non alcoholic substitutes are a better option for me. I look forward to my “after work wind down” which includes a glass of something, preferably mixed with gin, in my hand.
I do love a Negroni or Aperol spritz while I cook dinner. These aperitifs are easy to replace with a non alcoholic Bitter Orange Spritz. You can find lots of non alcoholic spirits and mixers created to replace their spirited couterpart in popular classic cocktails. From Espresso Martinis to Gin & Tonics the non alcoholic substitutes generally capture the essence of the classic cocktail and will satisfy your “need for a drink” but with the added advantage of consuming a low alcohol or no alcohol cocktail.
Friday Night Mocktails
Brands like Banks, Lyres, Four Pillars or Seedlip offer a pleasant tasting non alcoholic gin. Try mixing these non alcoholic spirits with our bold botanical syrups and shrubs and you will hardly notice the difference. Infact you may enjoy the aventure of a delicious mocktail !!!
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