Monthly sober challenges are becoming an annual ritual and with good reason. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know for a successful Sober October (or Soberish October) and how it’ll prepare you for Dry January.
A bad day at work, a fight with your partner, or just the monotony of everyday life can all lead us to drink — maybe without even thinking about it. We live in a world where grabbing a drink is the norm for socializing, celebrating, or coping with stress. So changing these habits, especially if they’re unconscious, doesn’t come easy. With some self-reflection, though, you can identify your drinking triggers and learn strategies to overcome them.
If your social life revolves around alcohol, you might find it a bit hard to become more mindful of your drinking — especially if your friends aren’t on board.
Maybe you’re used to having after-work drinks or spending Saturday nights out at a bar with friends, drinking the night away. Changing that dynamic and speaking up might feel scary. But luckily, you don’t have to isolate yourself to drink less. Mindful drinking takes time, patience, and communication (and maybe trying a few new social activities, too).
Based on research, a month off alcohol can lead to higher energy levels, more financial savings, and noticeable improvements in hair and skin. Participants of this challenge also experienced a reduction in blood pressure, glucose levels, weight, and liver fat, as well as increased focus and sleep quality.
Sunnyside knows it’s important to have alternative activities that everyone can enjoy. Here are some non-alcoholic activities you can do with your friends:
Drinking can be a hard habit to alter because of how alcohol affects us. Research has shown that alcohol can change a person’s emotional state by inducing feelings of pleasure and relaxation and reducing tension and anxiety. This happens because drinking alcohol can release endorphins, or “pleasure” hormones, which evoke a feel-good effect. Because of this, some people find they’re happier, less stressed, and more sociable after drinking.