The winter holidays are supposed to be a
magical time of year. However, they can pose extra challenges if you’re trying
to live sober.
You may look forward to decorating the tree and baking sugar cookies. Then, you remember crowded shopping malls and family dinners with distant relatives asking you about your childbearing plans.
You may also wonder how you’ll handle annual
rituals that usually involve rum punch and champagne.
Learn how to celebrate the holidays without
risking your recovery.
Follow these tips for staying peaceful and sober, starting with
Thanksgiving and continuing into the New Year.
Minimizing Holiday Stress:
- Anticipate
triggers. Plan ahead for situations that may
tempt you to want a drink. You’re more likely to make sound decisions if
you avoid getting caught by surprise. Be prepared for social
pressure and strong emotions.
- Watch
your budget. Marathon shopping and credit card
bills can cause financial strain. Figure out how much you can spend on
entertaining and gifts and live within your limits.
- Enjoy
nature. Set aside time for outdoor fun like ice
skating and sledding. Go for a brisk walk and admire the snow.
- Work out. Physical activity is a great way to relax and burn off extra
calories. Give yourself an early present of online fitness classes.
- Sleep
well. You’re calmer and more resilient when
your mind and body get adequate sleep. Stick to your regular bedtime.
Turn off the TV and other devices at least 2 hours before retiring.
- Eat
healthy. Proper nutrition provides energy and a
sense of overall wellness. Plan your meals and snacks, so you get plenty
of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean protein. If
you love holiday treats like candy and pie, limit the serving sizes.
- Take a
trip. A change of scenery might help. Treat
yourself to a holiday vacation that will allow you to feel pampered and avoid
situations that may be too demanding at this stage in your recovery.
- Attend
extra meetings. If programs like AA, SMART, or Recovery
Dharma have become part of your
regular routine, check the calendar to find additional meetings and events
to help you through the holiday season. You may also want to try them for
the first time, if you want extra support.
Managing Holiday Socializing:
- Create
new traditions. Be creative. Invent new holiday
activities if your old ones revolved around drinking. Host a pancake
breakfast instead of a boozy brunch. Finish a day of shopping with an
exercise session instead of a glass of wine. Replace bar hopping with
volunteer work.
- Be
selective. A lighter schedule may help you feel
more balanced. Pick the parties and events that are the highest priorities
for you. Graciously turn down invitations to gatherings that could be
too awkward.
- Snack
wisely. An empty stomach can sabotage your
willpower. Eat some bread and cheese or a handful of nuts before going out
for the evening.
- Stay
hydrated. There are plenty of nonalcoholic
beverages you can still enjoy. In addition to plain water or juice, explore
recipes for fancy mocktails with ingredients like star anise, muddled
berries, and cinnamon.
- Help out. Shifting your attention to others is a great way to distract
yourself from alcohol cravings or any feelings of self-consciousness. Let
your host know you’re available to tend the music or chop vegetables in
the kitchen.
- Leave
early. Alcohol often flows more freely later in
the night. If you prefer a quieter experience, be among the first to
arrive and depart.
Be merry and sober this holiday season. The occasions you celebrate without alcohol may wind up being more meaningful and memorable.