Nurturing Your Nervous System - Alcohol-Free Relaxation

Hello! This month, I thought I’d share a few practical ways to help you get through Sober October and beyond.

You might even be enticed to embrace a sober November and December, too, and set the stage for a fabulous, healthier, more relaxed future where alcohol doesn’t reign over your emotions or take a toll on your body and nervous system!

By learning some tips on how to regulate your nervous system without turning to self-sabotaging habits, practising a sober streak through October and beyond (even if you’re just sober curious!) will be a rewarding and health-boosting experience.

The Role of Alcohol in Stress Relief

Let’s face it, most people credit alcohol with helping us relax.

We've all been there - a long day at work, nagging kids (or husband 😉), or a demanding job. It's no wonder we turn to alcohol to unwind and relax. But do we truly understand the impact it has on our nervous system?

Are there better ways to relax without relying on a glass of wine, gin or beer?

When we sip that (perceived) enticing glass of wine or any alcoholic beverage, it doesn’t just give us that warm, fuzzy feeling. It also has a negative effect on our nervous system. You see, alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows down the central nervous system. At first, this might feel relaxing, but it’s a slippery slope downward towards bad health.

The Nervous System's Balancing Act

Our nervous system is a remarkable player in our response to stress. Alcohol may seem like a quick fix, initially giving a feeling of relaxation by slowing down our central nervous system. However, this is a temporary fix.

Our bodies are designed to be in balance or homeostasis. So, because drinking alcohol causes our body to release the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline to balance out the sedative effects of the alcohol, it leads to anxiety, sleep disturbances (hence 3 a.m. wake-ups!), mood swings, low immunity, and a sense of unease. It’s like borrowing relaxation from tomorrow but with interest!

Team that with menopause, and it’s the perfect storm!

Healthy, Relaxation Alternatives to the Rescue

Fear not! There's a world of healthier, sustainable options to 'unwine' without turning to the bottle. Here are a few of my personal favourites.

1. Meditation: A Journey to Inner Peace 🧘‍♀️

Picture this - you, in a peaceful space, sitting comfortably, focusing on your breath, letting go of all your stress. That’s meditation, and it’s a wonderful way to calm your nervous system. There are some fabulous free guided meditation apps available, like Calm or Head Space, but my fave is Insight Timer.

2. Exercise: Moving Your Body and Resting Your Mind 🏋️‍♂️

Physical activity isn’t just for the body; it’s a mind-soother too. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or gym workout, exercise releases wonderful endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. It’s like a free, all-natural shot of happiness! I can highly recommend Tai Chi and Qigong!

3. Deep Breathing: A Mini-Vacation for Your Nerves 🫶

A few deep breaths can work wonders for your nervous system. It’s like a mini-vacation for your nervous system. Deep, slow breaths can lower your heart rate and reduce stress instantly. Breathe in slowly through your nose for three counts, and exhale slowly through your mouth for six counts. Inhale serenity. Exhale stress!

4. Connecting with Nature: Healing Through the Outdoors 🌿

There’s something magical about being in nature. A simple walk in the park, a stroll along the beach or a weekend hike can do wonders for your mind, body, and soul.

5. Creative Outlets and Hobbies: Express Yourself 🎨

Whether it’s painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument, creative activities help you relax and express yourself. Any type of “ING” activity can help you relax and take your mind off reaching for that quick alcohol fix and can be very nourishing for your soul.

6. Quality Time and Connection: Laughter as a Stress-Buster 🤣

Spend time with loved ones, including your pets, for genuine connections and stress relief. Laughter and connection are fantastic stress-busters!

7. Mindfulness: Savouring Life's Simple Pleasures ☺️

Being present in the moment and appreciating the simple pleasures of life can be incredibly soothing. Tasting your first sip of tea, feeling the warmth of a cosy blanket, patting your dog, cat or any furry animal, even noticing the buds on spring flowers - little things like these can be incredibly soothing.

8. Bubble Baths: A Soothing Oasis for Your Mind 🛁

A warm bath can do wonders for your mental state. Add some magnesium salts, lavender essential oil, light some candles and indulge in a soothing soak. Pure bliss!!

9. Reading: Imagination and Relaxation 📚

Dive into a good book and let your imagination take flight. It’s like a mini-vacation for your mind. Add a nice cuppa for extra stress relief.

10. Music and Dance: Uplifting Your Spirits 💃🎶

Listen to your favourite tunes and shake it out with some dancing. Music can transport you to another world, away from your worries.

11. EFT Tapping: A Holistic Approach to Nervous System Wellness 🤗

Explore the power of EFT tapping to manage your stress. EFT is such an easy, painless, amazing, holistic – and portable! - modality for soothing your nervous system. It’s like acupuncture but without the needles! Ask me how!

12. Sleep: Prioritizing Rest 🛌

Getting enough quality rest is essential for managing stress. Create a comfortable sleep environment and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for relaxation.

The key is finding what works for you. And it’s worth the effort because nurturing your nervous system and reducing stress in healthier ways will ultimately leave you feeling better both inside and out.

So, the next time you’re tempted to reach for that glass of wine, consider trying one of these relaxation alternatives instead. Your nervous system will thank you, and you’ll discover that there are countless paths to serenity beyond the bottle.

Cheers to a healthier, more relaxed you! 🌺

Cindy x

How I can help you with EFT...

As a Grey Area Drinking coach incorporating Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT or Tapping), I can help free you from what has been holding you emotionally captive.

I can help you address and release the emotional contributing factors that led to your unhealthy relationship with alcohol or other self-sabotaging behaviours.

Releasing these negative emotions can help make it easier to maintain your sobriety or reach other health goals, as you will have the tools required to successfully navigate the stressors of day-to- day life and challenging thoughts.

Book an EFT “TASTER” BUNDLE of 4 sessions and break free of limiting beliefs and what’s holding you back from living your best life.