During the pandemic, many people used alcohol as an escape and a way to manage stress by treating themselves to a few drinks. This is fine once in a while, but it’s certainly not a healthy solution for managing daily hassles.
If you’re reading this and simply looking to cut back on your weekly drinks, these 7 tips may help:
Set a weekly limit.
Sounds obvious, but if you write it down and keep track of how many glasses of wine or cocktails you drink in a week, putting it on paper will be right in front of your face so you can see how much you’re drinking. Every time you don’t exceed your limit, reward yourself with something.
Lower the ration.
Instead of drinking a full glass of wine, mix part wine, part spritz or diet soda. You’ll still have the satisfaction of drinking wine, but with half the alcohol.
Let it be known.
Let your closest friends know that you are seriously trying to drink less. Saying it out loud and sharing your intention with someone will help you hold yourself accountable. Also, your circle can act as a support group. Who knows, maybe they’ll join you and cut down on alcohol together.
Limit your alcohol consumption at home.
Drinking alone at home is not only a little sad, it’s also unhealthy and can lead to a bigger problem. Save your drinks for when you leave home or for the weekend. This way, you’ll look forward to it and feel like you’ve earned it.
Alternate water between drinks.
It’s always important to stay hydrated when you drink, that’s a fact. By alternating an alcoholic drink and a glass of water, you will feel better the next day and slow down the amount you consume.
Switch to a non-alcoholic alternative.
There are several delicious non-alcoholic options that still let you loosen up and can help release stress. Find one you like and substitute it as your weekly drink of choice.
Distract yourself with an activity.
When you feel like having a beer or a glass of wine, distract yourself by doing an activity like taking a walk around town, playing your favorite sport and reminding yourself that you are in control and have the option to make healthier habits. It will be difficult at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be grateful and start wanting to drink a little less and less.
