Embracing Sober October: A Journey of Health, Reflection, and Mocktails

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As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, October brings more than just pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween decorations. For me, it’s a month of special significance – not only is it when I welcomed my daughter into the world 15 years ago, but it’s also become a time for personal growth and health through Sober October.

Why Sober October?

Sober October is a growing movement where people choose to abstain from alcohol for the entire month. It’s a chance to reset, reflect, and experience the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. We’re currently on Day 14 (our last day to drink was September 28), and I’m amazed at the positive changes I’m already noticing.

Who started the Sober October Movement?

The name “Sober October” is credited to Macmillan Cancer Support, a UK-based cancer charity. Visit their website for full information: https://www.gosober.org.uk/

Join our Sober October Team

https://www.gosober.org.uk/teams/olive-basil

We’ve set up an Olive + Basil Team on the GoSober.org.uk site to support the movement! We’d love it if you join our team!

The Benefits of Going Dry

Incorporating dry months into your year can lead to numerous health benefits:

1. Improved sleep quality
2. Enhanced mental clarity and focus
3. Potential weight loss
4. Financial savings
5. A chance to reassess your relationship with alcohol

The Reality Check: Alcohol’s Impact on Health

While moderate drinking is often considered acceptable, it’s important to understand alcohol’s effects on our bodies:

• Liver health: Alcohol can lead to fatty liver disease and long-term damage
• Sleep disruption: While it might help you fall asleep, alcohol often leads to poor sleep quality
• Mental health: Alcohol can exacerbate anxiety and depression
• Weight gain: Alcoholic drinks are often high in empty calories
• Long-term risks: Regular drinking is linked to various cancers and cardiovascular issues

My Sober October Experience

After 11 days without alcohol, I’m noticing significant positive changes. My skin looks clearer, and I’m sleeping better than I have in months. My mental health is on an upward trend, which has been incredibly refreshing.

Beyond the personal health benefits, we’re seeing positive impacts on our lifestyle and relationships. I notice I’m more productive and getting important tasks done around the house: such as decluttering and organizing various areas. We’re saving money, which is always a plus. In the evenings, we find ourselves more present and engaged with each other and our activities. Weekends have transformed too – instead of unwinding with a couple of drinks in front of the TV, we’re more active and finding new ways to relax and enjoy our time together.

I’m particularly proud of myself for avoiding the empty calories that come with low-carb beer or wine. It’s been rewarding to see the numbers on the scale consistently going down further and further. This visible progress serves as extra motivation to stick with my Sober October commitment and possibly extend these healthier habits beyond this month.

Mocktails: The Fun, Healthy Alternative

Who says you need alcohol to enjoy a fancy drink?

Here are some of our favorite mocktails!

Rissa’s Mocktail Top Picks

Thyme & Table 14 ox Coupe Cocktail Glass

Virgin Dirty Martini

What you’ll need:

• Ritual Zero Proof Gin Alternative
• Jumbo Green Olives
• Olive Brine
• Pure Lacroix Sparkling Water

I used my cocktail shaker and added 1 shot of the zero proof gin alternative, added some olive brine (or exclude it if you don’t like a dirty martini!), some Pure Lacroix Sparkling water, and I thought it was an excellent alternative.
Ritual Zero Proof has Whiskey, Rum, Tequila, and more. View all of their options here!

I’m excited to try a Lemon Drop tonight (minus the simple syrup!)
Visit this link to get lots of inspiration and recipes from their website.

Hop Wtr

I discovered HopWtr when I was doing research about Ashwagandha and L-Theanine. HopWtr uses both in their ready-to-drink non-alcoholic beverages!

HopWtr is gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan and keto!

Here is a description from their website: “It all starts with hops. Our brewer-approved blend of Citra, Amarillo, Mosaic and Azacca hops delivers a citrusy, piney flavor reminiscent of your favorite IPA, without booze. We team our hops up with mood-boosting, stress-busting adaptogens and nootropics and infuse it all in crisp sparkling water. Refreshing and hydrating, HOP WTR is The Healthy Way To Hops.” (source: hopwtr.com)

What’s in HopWtr?

Hops: Citra, Amarillo, Mosaic, and Azacca

Nootropics: L-Theanine

Adaptogens: Ashwagandha

Vitamin C

What I Love About HopWtr

Delicious flavor profiles (I’ve tried Peach, Lime, and Blood Orange! They’re all delicious but Peach is my absolute favorite. It’s not a strong peach flavor, subtle and perfect if you ask me!)

Healthy alternative to alcoholic beverages

Great substitute for sugary sodas

Contains Ashwagandha for stress relief

Includes L-Theanine for relaxation and focus

Zero calories, gluten-free

No artificial sweeteners, Non-GMO ingredients

Offers variety with different flavor options: Black Cherry, Double Hopped, Mango, Lemonade, Passion Fruit, plus lots more! check out all the choices here

Aligns with health and wellness lifestyles

This is something I enjoy a couple of times a month, it’s refreshing and fun to drink!

Mav’s Top Pick

Athletic Brewing Co.

https://athleticbrewing.com

Why Athletic Brewing Co. is his Top Pick

Wide variety of beer styles available

Delicious, authentic beer flavor without the alcohol

Light option with only 25 calories and 5 carbs per can

Craft brewery quality and attention to detail

Perfect for maintaining an active lifestyle

Allows enjoyment of beer taste without impairment

Suitable for those abstaining from alcohol for health reasons

Enables participation in social drinking situations

Brewed with high-quality, all-natural ingredients

Sustainable brewing practices

Supports the growing non-alcoholic beverage market

Allows beer enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite beverage more frequently

Purchase Upside Dawn, one of Mav’s favorite flavors! Walmart.com

Note: According to Athletic Brewing Co’s website, their beer is less than 0.5% alcohol/volume. Average analysis of Athletic Lite per 12 fl/oz-Calories 25, Carb 5g, Protein 0g, Fat 0g.

Per the The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, alcohol content higher than 0.5% is considered an alcohol beverage. For more information on this topic please visit their website.

Tips for a Successful Sober Month

1. Find alternative activities for socializing (game nights, hiking, cooking classes, go to the gym)
2. Develop new stress-management techniques (meditation, exercise, journaling)
3. Communicate your goals to friends and family for support
4. Keep a journal to track your progress and feelings

Reflecting on the Journey

As I continue through Sober October, I’m gaining new insights into my habits and health. It’s not just about avoiding alcohol; it’s about embracing a clearer, more intentional way of living.

Whether you’re considering a dry month or just curious about the benefits, I encourage you to give it a try. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself in the process.

Here’s to health, clarity, and the joy of waking up hangover-free!

#soberoctober #macmilloncancersupport

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