FINALLY – reducing drinking and even skipping the booze has become normal, with more people than ever paying higher interest to living a healthy, wellness focused life. Longevity has become more of a trend than jager bombs for some, which is great news for our bodies, minds and livers.
If you still like to enjoy the odd drink on weekends, or if you find it hard to stay away from the pub most nights after work, why not give mindful drinking a go? This approach to drinking may reset your relationship with booze and help you appreciate the drinks you do have, whilst waking up hangover free.
WHAT IS MINDFUL DRINKING?
Mindfulness came from the Buddhist concept called “sati”, thought to develop self-awareness and awakening through an understanding of one’s surroundings, feelings and thoughts without judgement. Linking this to alcohol, this gives us mindful drinking- the practice of being aware and in control of why and how much alcohol you drink. What you drink, when you drink, who you drink with all have a role to play in this. Mindful drinking often results in a healthier relationship with alcohol and one’s self, resulting in lower levels of consumption.
TIPS FOR MINDFUL DRINKING:
Plan ahead- Planning ahead is key when it comes to mindful drinking, taking your time to plan out where you’re heading and checking out if they offer any decent low or no alcohol options. This gives YOU the option if you want to drink or not. Setting yourself boundaries of how many drinks you’ll have that night before you head out can lock down good intentions. Even better, drive to the venue so you don’t even have a choice when it comes to drinking. Include a ‘spacer’ between drinks – A spacer is a drink that contains no alcohol, that you consume between drinks that do contain alcohol. Ideally this would be water, to help with the dehydrating effects of the booze. The idea is that you stay hydrated and you slow yourself down so that you don’t become intoxicated and potentially have to deal with the aftermath.
Drink with your senses- When you do have that drink, try to use all senses to fully appreciate every sip. This way, you’re less likely to chug down more than you planned, and your satisfaction levels will be sky high.
Distractions- Think of other self care practices you could do, that don’t involve the wine. This could be having a bubble bath, calling a friend, doing a workout or baking something healthy you love. Find what works best for you and have a list of backups when the booze craving hits.
Be specific – Just planning to drink less is too broad when it comes to drinking. With Christmas around the corner, social events taking place, and after office drinks being back in action try to set boundaries and be more specific in your goals. Allowing yourself to drink 2- 3 nights a week may work best for you, this makes it easier to control than counting units.
Overall, you’ll be feeling physically and mentally better the morning after practicing mindful drinking. No sore head, anxiety, loose tummy, extreme thirst, fatigue or weakness- You’ll also appreciate slowing down, savouring your drink and precious time with the people you love.
This mindful approach to drinking may just help you make the most of life’s other pleasures too- but remember, don’t be too hard on yourself as everything in moderation is the healthiest approach when it comes to enjoying yourself this year.