Why You Should Consider Going Alcohol Free: 5 Key Benefits

Refreshing citrus over ice and tonic water.. it doesn't have to be alcoholic to be refreshing!

Understanding the Impact of Alcohol on Your Life

"Why should I spend any amount of time going alcohol free?" "If I drink one or two drinks a week, won't I get the same results?" Everyone is different. If you stick to one or two drinks, you might see some improvement, especially if you usually drink more. However, the best way to determine if going alcohol free (AF) will benefit you is to take a break for at least 30 days.

Here are my top 5 benefits of going alcohol free for at least 30 days:

Improved Sleep Quality

1. After about 7-14 days, your sleep patterns should start to settle down. Alcohol interferes with REM and non-REM sleep, which are essential for rest and repair.

2. The sedative effects of alcohol might help you fall asleep, but your sleep will be fragmented and of poor quality.

3. I still wake up in the early hours occasionally after many years AF, but generally, I can get back to sleep without much trouble.

4. Alcohol causes dehydration, aggravates sleep apnea, and makes you urinate more often, all of which interfere with your sleep.

6. When I was drinking, I would wake up in the early hours sweating, thirsty, and with my heart racing, unable to get back to sleep. I often lay awake with dreadful anxiety, thinking about how much I drank or what I said.

Enhanced Mental Clarity

1. One of the things I noticed after about 14 days was that my mental clarity improved significantly. It felt like a fog had lifted from my brain, allowing me to focus and think more clearly.

2. Before going AF, I struggled to stay focused and often found myself going in circles while trying to solve problems.

3. My mood improved, especially on Monday mornings when I used to come into work grumpy after a weekend of drinking. Being hungover, tired, and emotional is not conducive to a happy mood.

4. Although my mood still fluctuates (which is normal), I am more resilient and can turn things around with the techniques I have learned over the years.

5. I used to worry a lot about my drinking, health, and its effects on my family. Once I went alcohol free, those worries evaporated.

7. I also experienced gaps in my memory the day after drinking, struggling to recall conversations or decisions made while under the influence. Now, if I have any doubts, I make a note in my phone.

Physical Health Improvements

1. Longer-term weight loss (+30 days) occurred as I stopped consuming excess calories from beer and no longer needed to snack constantly on cheese, crackers, and cured meats.

2. My face lost its red pallor and puffiness, and my skin improved significantly, which had always looked dry and blotchy.

3. My blood pressure returned to normal levels after going AF, and I no longer needed medication (though I still get checked regularly).

4. I used to suffer from gout frequently, with beer being a major contributor. Now, I have no issues AF.

5. My cholesterol and triglyceride levels decreased over time, and my liver and inflammation markers improved.

7. I also no longer experienced gastrointestinal issues that plagued me after drinking.

Financial and Time Savings

1. My bank account improved significantly. I used to spend up to $300 a week on alcohol and related activities like gambling.

2. I often bought more alcohol on the way home if we had a night out. My bar fridge was always stocked, just in case.

3. I was surprised by how much time I wasted drinking instead of getting things done.

4. Instead of working on a project or engaging in enjoyable activities, I would crack open a cold drink and settle in for the afternoon. I would talk about "to-do" tasks, but nothing would actually get done.

6. Once I shifted my focus away from drinking, I found time for new hobbies and quality family time. The key is to avoid giving in to boredom!

Increased Energy and Motivation

1. Over time, better eating, improved sleep, and no more hangovers led to increased energy levels.

2. Getting up in the morning is no longer a struggle; I bounce out of bed ready to go. In my drinking days, even going to the toilet felt like a chore.

3. I have more energy and stamina throughout the day, whereas I used to feel sluggish by mid-afternoon and often fell asleep at my desk.

4. My motivation varies with my mood, but it’s easier to manage now. I used to believe that a drink would fix my feelings of depression, but I learned that it only perpetuated the cycle.

5. Giving up alcohol has allowed me to engage in activities I enjoy and truly appreciate them.

7. If there's a family emergency at any time, I know I can show up clear-headed and ready to help. This gives me peace of mind and confidence, knowing I’m someone my family can rely on.

Conclusion: Experience the Benefits Yourself

We can discuss the benefits of going alcohol free at length, but you really need to experience it for yourself. Take note of how you feel from week to week. Everyone is different, and it might take longer or shorter to feel the benefits. It also depends on your drinking habits before you go AF.

If you have questions or would like to know more about the support I can offer in changing your relationship with alcohol, contact me via email at coachtony@sobertides.com or set up a no-obligation Strategy Call to learn more.