Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

Alcohol can be a source of enjoyment, yet it often leaves you feeling bloated and irritable after nights of poor sleep. I found myself grappling with my drinking habits, realizing that my enjoyment had faded, but quitting proved to be a challenge. The anticipation of that evening drink was hard to resist, and I often struggled to say no. I attempted various strategies, such as only drinking on weekends or participating in dry challenges, but I rarely managed to last more than ten days.

This duration coincides with the time it takes for alcohol to fully clear your system. Once those ten days passed, I felt more energized and like my true self again, making it easy to slip back into old habits. Deep down, my intuition yearned for a longer break from drinking, urging me to set down the glass and explore life without alcohol. Yet, I often found myself feeling guilty after drinking when I truly wanted to abstain.

Frustrated with my preoccupation with alcohol, I sought help. Joining an online sobriety group (yes, it required a financial commitment) turned out to be transformative. I fully immersed myself in the process, discovering a wealth of information about drinking, reflecting on my thought patterns, and understanding the insights my intuition had been sharing all along. As Peggi Cooney notes in her book, "This Side of Alcohol," I dedicated myself to learning about sobriety as if it were a master's degree. I became captivated by the journey.

After five years of striving for a break from drinking, I finally achieved it! I celebrated surpassing the 100-day mark without alcohol.

Things I Noticed:

• Greater confidence in tuning into my intuition.
• Healthier skin, hair, and nails.
• A noticeably slimmer face.
• Reduced bloating, particularly in my upper abdomen.
• A sense of well-restedness; nighttime restroom trips became rare.
• Enhanced ability to manage challenging situations.
• An energized feeling akin to the Energizer Bunny.
• Less negative self-talk and a more optimistic outlook.
• New friendships blossomed.
• Increased presence and awareness in my daily life.
• A commitment to my words, boosting my confidence.
• The ability to decline invitations without guilt.
• More consistent journaling and writing.
• Sticking to my schedule while remaining adaptable.
• Feeling more complete and whole.
• Deeper connections with loved ones.
• Letting go of thoughts that previously consumed me.
• Easier to decline wine.
• A sharper focus on what I embrace in life.
• Clarity about my overall existence.
• Enhanced creativity that lasts longer.
• A more loving and less reactive demeanor with my children.
• Singing more frequently—much more!
• Smiling more often.
• Increased knowledge about alcohol and sober living.
• Mindfulness during yoga practice.
• An improved posture—taller, broader, and lighter.
• The discomfort in my shoulder has nearly vanished.
• Reduced teeth clenching, easing TMJ discomfort.
• A calmer throat, no longer feeling inflamed.
• Easier breathing and improved sense of smell and taste.
• A newfound preference for fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Overall, a happier disposition.