It’s been a tough 9 months.
And the pandemic is still there, although there’s now a real light at the end of the tunnel with several possible vaccines.
But we still have to get through the holidays, in this pandemic.
If you’re living in Quebec, you know that the original plan to allow small holiday get-togethers has been canceled.
I’m sure there may be similar restrictions outside the province and in other countries.
So, no extended family, no friends.
And yet, to me, that is the whole point of the holidays.
So, not seeing those I care about that makes me feel sad, angry, all the feelings.
Maybe you’re feeling the same at this uncertain time.
And maybe wine (or beer, or another favorite beverage) has become your therapy of choice.
I see the memes about it on Facebook, and there are several articles and studies that show that drinking has increased during the pandemic.
Especially among women
Pouring another glass probably seemed innocent enough back in March, but now 9 months in, it may be a problem.
And especially if you’re going through menopause or post menopausal, overdrinking can be a significant health risk.
So, what can you do if wine is no longer on the table?
Well, first step is to become aware of why you’re drinking it in the first place.
I mean, is it a habit, like you drink while cooking or with your meal?
Or has it become a way of coping, like you find yourself with a glass in your hand while scrolling Instagram, watching Netflix, or working from home on that report that’s due Friday afternoon?
If it’s a habit, then you can try switching it up for something non-alcoholic.
1. Switch to sipping something virgin
Instead of wine (or whatever your poison is), get creative and try something new, make it special.
You can spruce up sparkling water with a little cranberry juice, a slice of orange, and an umbrella.
Or with a strawberry smoothie. Yum!
Or if you’re looking for something for the holidays, you make a festive holiday mocktail (click the link for some fun recipe ideas.)
Whatever you choose to drink, choose the feeling to go with it.
Because the reason you may be drinking out of habit, is due to a feeling you’re trying to capture.
Maybe you’re looking to feel relaxed, or maybe festive, or maybe comfortable.
Whatever the feeling, you can conjure that same feeling intentionally even without a drink in hand, and serve yourself something new – and virgin, and hopefully not overly sweet – to go with it.
A new alcohol-free habit – a healthier one hopefully – may be born.
2. Love your reason for saying “No”
If you really want to reduce your alcohol consumption, have a solid reason to do it.
A reason you love.
Because you’ll have to say “No” even when a big part of you is saying “Yes.”
And you’ll need to constantly remind yourself of this reason, so you can stop before pouring another glass.
Keep your reason visible by posting it physically or virtually in places you’ll see it often.
Here are some great reasons for stopping that may resonate with you:
- You want to feel more confident and in control of your life.
- You want to be an example to your kids.
- You want to be proud of yourself.
- You want to be the type of woman who takes care of herself so she can care for others.
There are literally thousands of reasons, just find one that makes you feel empowered and motivated.
3. Distract yourself with enjoyment
Maybe you love reading a good book, or lose yourself in knitting, or want to learn something new, or love a good walk in nature.
Find something that lights you up and feeds your soul.
And make it something that you can easily pick up no matter where you are.
Replacing a negative habit, like over-drinking, with a habit that brings you joy, is the ultimate in transformation.
4. Ask for help
If you’ve tried things, and nothing seems to be working, it may be time to confide in someone so you can move forward.
Unburdening yourself will help you feel less alone, and less likely to want to turn to alcohol as a solution.
A good friend, a partner, and a parent are examples of people who love and care about you, and who might be willing to listen to what you want to share.
A coach is also a good person to help you if you’re drinking more than you want to be.
They can help you understand what’s behind your drinking, and can work with you to move beyond alcohol and towards where you really want to be.
But if you feel that the problem is deeper, and you’re suffering from alcoholism, then a therapist and an alcoholic anonymous group may be what you need.
No matter where you find yourself on this spectrum, there is someone waiting to listen and help.
So, have you found yourself going through more bottles than usual?
I know this is a tough question to answer.
Personally, I found myself drinking wine more than I wanted to, especially through this past summer.
I noticed I was doing it, and realized that I was trying to find some comfort and calm, and take my mind off stuff.
And I found it tough to say “no” when it was offered.
Didn’t want to be a stick in the mud, right?
But more recently I’ve discovered that when I drink, even smaller amounts, my sleep is disturbed and I get occasional heart palpitations.
So, I’ve basically been staying away these past few weeks, and honestly feel better.
Not to mention more in control of my decisions, which is empowering.
And I realize that the only person it really bothered when I said “no” was me.
So, here’s to better health, feeling in charge, and being the person you want to be!
Cheers my friend,
Debbie
P.S. Want to let go of over-drinking, over-eating? I’m here to help you.
Join me for my Midlife and Menopause Coaching Program in 2024. It’s a 6-month, one-on-one coaching program, tailored to your unique lifestyle. Book a free consult and let’s talk about moving forward!