Discover the benefits of a sober lifestyle because it is more than just a trend.
I can't remember the last time I made a New Year's Resolution and had never done Dry January. In the third week of September last year, I learned about Sober October, when people give up alcohol for a month to spread awareness about breast cancer, when I saw a post on Instagram. I shared the post and thought it would be a great idea to try it out myself.
I consider myself a social drinker, enjoying drinks on weekends or vacations. Occasionally, I'd have a glass of red wine at home to relax. I turned 40 in 2023 and have been making healthier choices in recent years, including reducing alcohol intake. However, I lacked a strong enough reason to abstain completely.
When I decided to do Sober October, I only told some of my closest friends that I would "try" to do it, anticipating potential challenges. Surprisingly, I successfully abstained for the entire month in 2023, with my last drink on September 25th.
I was curious to see how quitting alcohol would affect my body, having read numerous articles on the topic. My annual physical was scheduled for mid-October when I get comprehensive blood work covered by my insurance. All my results were normal the previous year, so I was eager to see if any changes occurred.
I also opted for genetic testing for potential cancer cells, including the BRCA gene, as my interest in breast cancer awareness motivated this decision. This test is not typically covered by insurance and can be expensive. I paid $250 for the test. Both my blood work and genetic testing results came back negative, which was a significant relief as breast cancer runs in my family.
Alcohol is a known carcinogen linked to cancers of the head and neck, esophagus, and liver. According to WebMD, reducing alcohol intake can lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels, improving heart health. It also allows the liver to heal, as it filters toxins, and alcohol is toxic to liver cells. Seeing my normal liver enzyme levels significantly motivated me to continue this healthier lifestyle.
The positive impact of that sober month was evident in my 2023 blood work. And with my significantly reduced alcohol intake in 2024, I'm happy to report that my latest health checks are the best yet.
Healthline reports that excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight gain due to its high-calorie content. While I didn't experience significant weight loss, I did notice more consistent exercise habits, as I no longer felt fatigued or hungover the next day.
I was particularly interested in how quitting alcohol would impact my sleep, as I am not a good sleeper. Excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt sleep quality and duration. While I can't definitively attribute my improved sleep solely to alcohol abstinence, I noticed I was falling asleep quicker and sleeping longer by the end of the month. I also implemented other sleep-enhancing habits during this time, such as using Asutra Dream the night away lotion with magnesium and melatonin, and a sunrise simulation alarm clock to wake up instead of sleeping with my cell phone beside my bed.
As a beauty writer, I anticipated improvements in my skin. Many articles claim quitting alcohol can lead to more hydrated, firmer, and radiant skin. While I didn't observe dramatic changes, I noticed a significant improvement in my mood. I felt calmer, less irritable, and less stressed.
The best part about Sober October was the overall sense of well-being. I woke up refreshed and energized, genuinely enjoying this healthier version of myself. While I've occasionally enjoyed drinks since then, I'm more mindful of their impact. I now wake up more tired after a single drink and maintain a calmer, more balanced demeanor.
Since completing Sober October, my relationship with alcohol has significantly changed. I now drink much more mindfully, enjoying the occasional drink perhaps once a month and always in moderation.
My Sober October journey reminded me that even small changes can profoundly impact our well-being. While I may not be completely alcohol-free, I now have a greater awareness of its effects and a newfound appreciation for the clarity and peace that comes with reduced consumption.
I encourage you to consider a similar experiment – whether it's a whole month of abstinence or simply a conscious effort to reduce your alcohol intake. You might be surprised by the positive changes you experience, from improved sleep and mood to increased energy and a greater sense of control. Remember, every step towards a healthier lifestyle is a step in the right direction.
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