doulajohannaWhen we think about self-care, we often picture bubble baths, spa days, or cozy nights with a glass of wine in hand. But what if true self-care means stepping away from the habits that don’t serve us and exploring what’s possible when we give ourselves the gift of clarity, connection, and health?
For years, alcohol has been presented as the key to relaxation and fun—a drink at the end of a long day, a way to celebrate, or a bridge to social connection. It’s so normalized in our culture that it feels almost radical to question it. But when I did, my perspective shifted in profound ways.
In my twenties, I started to see another side of alcohol. I was fortunate to have deeply honest conversations with my favorite uncle, who had struggled with alcoholism for most of his life. He got sober 18 months before he passed away from lung cancer, and in that short window, he opened my eyes to the realities of addiction and the beauty of sobriety.
At first, my decision to drink less—or not at all—was about health and avoiding risks. I was worried about the toll alcohol might take on my body, and I wondered if my life would feel less vibrant without it. For a long time, I believed that sobriety might mean less fun, less joy, less connection.
Rediscovering Joy and Clarity: The Unexpected Gifts of Sobriety
But then life happened. Three pregnancies, nursing journeys, and a growing awareness of what my body truly needs gave me space to step away from alcohol altogether. I didn’t just survive those years—I thrived in ways I hadn’t expected. I discovered that sobriety isn’t about deprivation; it’s a gift.
Being alcohol-free gave me new depth in my relationships, greater clarity in my decisions, and a stronger connection to my true self. It opened doors to a kind of joy and peace I hadn’t experienced before. It turned out to be a fantastic way to be my own life doula.
That’s why I dedicated a whole episode of my podcast to exploring the benefits of ditching alcohol. It’s not about preaching or perfection—it’s an invitation to try something new, to be curious about how sobriety might feel, and to embrace it as an act of profound self-care.
What You’ll Gain by Letting Go
When you give yourself a break from alcohol, you may notice:
- Better Sleep: Alcohol disrupts the deep, restorative REM sleep your body craves.
- Improved Energy: Sobriety often brings more energy and focus to your days.
- Stronger Connections: Without alcohol in the picture, interactions with loved ones can feel richer and more genuine.
- A Clearer Mind: Sobriety fosters emotional resilience and clarity in ways that drinking can’t.
This journey isn’t just about cutting something out—it’s about making space for something better.
An Invitation to You
If you’re curious about what life without alcohol might feel like, I encourage you to give it a try. Start with a week, a month, or whatever feels doable. Notice how your body, mind, and spirit respond. You might just be amazed by what you discover.
And if this resonates with you, I’d love for you to share the podcast episode with a friend who might be curious about sobriety too. Let’s spread the word and support each other in creating lives that feel aligned, authentic, and full of joy.
A Final Thought
As Louisa May Alcott once said, “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” Sobriety is about taking the wheel of your life and charting a course toward deeper connection, health, and joy. You’ve got this.
