Spoiler alert – the answer is yes! But I guess that probably didn’t come as a surprise!
We all know that taking a break or cutting alcohol out of your life altogether has a wide range of physical and mental health benefits.
One of the most notable, and as a perimenopausal women, working full time and parenting 2 kids, the most valuable has been the quality of my sleep. Sleep deprivation is a form of torture, and in my mind is the epitome of a living hell! So, knowing that my sleep is far less disrupted, meaning that I wake feeling brighter and having had restorative sleep, has made the biggest difference.
The knock on from that, I am able to concentrate better, I am more present. More energy, better output at home and at work. I find myself being able to handle stress better (another spoiler, removing alcohol doesn’t equal a stress-free life) but, and it’s a big but, it does mean the way in which I am able to deal with it is far better. I find myself being able to work through it, not catastrophise, not be so reactive. My mind being clearer affords me the time to take breath and work through the situation step by step.
My physical body feels better, not just because I’m not feeding it with poison, but because of the ripple effect that has started.
I don’t wake feeling dehydrated, so my skin looks and feels brighter, tighter. I spend time the evening before undertaking a self-care regime to protect that sober glow.
I fuel my body better, I am conscious at what I am putting in it, making better choices.
No longer do I suffer with the devilish symptoms of acid reflux and indigestion each day. So, when I am making healthier dietary choices they are having a positive effect, not just trying to battle against the tide. The vitamins, minerals and overall nutrients are helping to make my body better, making me stronger and (hard to believe) making me wiser!
If that isn’t enough, going alcohol free supports better mental health. I’m not just talking about the reduction in anxiety and low mood here.
Another revelation is that you will want to do more, find different and more interesting ways to socialise. Many alcohol-free people (myself included) will wax lyrical about the joys of a sunrise walk!
Finding the beauty in the day, exploring the wonder of nature, meeting a friend for breakfast and experiencing the effects of pure connection, deeper level conversation, long lasting memory making.
So, its not just about the science, although no one can argue with the facts that removing alcohol decreases the risk of 7 types of cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease.
But for me, I choose to focus on what I’ve gained, and that comes in the form of so much that is good for me, so much that has improved my life.
If you are thinking of going alcohol free and would like to know more about how we can support you, please get in touch.
Our next alcohol-free challenge starts on 15th April. Our free masterclass is running on 10th April at 7pm, register today via the button below.
