She Strengthens

The Surprising Benefits of a Booze-Free Life

As someone who enjoys the occasional glass of cheap wine or strong IPA, I never thought I’d be the type to give up alcohol completely. But after hearing about friends who had taken voluntary breaks from drinking, I decided to take the plunge and see what would happen. For two whole months, I abstained from alcohol, and the results were nothing short of astonishing.

Beyond the Challenge

My motivation wasn’t just about proving to myself that I could do it. I was also curious about the impact that giving up alcohol would have on my health and fitness habits. Research suggests that moderate drinking can have health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, excessive drinking can have negative effects on sports performance, recovery, and even lead to long-term weight gain.

The Experiment

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was determined to see it through. I stopped drinking cold turkey, and to my surprise, it was much easier than I thought it would be. Having a few late nights out before starting my experiment helped, but even after those nights wore off, I found it relatively easy to stick to my resolve.

The Upside

One of the biggest advantages of giving up alcohol was the lack of pressure to make decisions. I no longer had to worry about who would be the designated driver, how much I was drinking, or whether I was getting too tipsy. All those small decisions disappeared, and it was a huge relief. I also realized that lots of people don’t drink, and it was okay to order a virgin mix or sparkling water at social events.

The Downsides

Of course, there were some tough moments. Watching others drink at social events was the hardest part. It was like my brain was hardwired to associate drinking with relaxation, and it took some effort to remind myself that I could relax without a drink. But once I got past that initial moment, the rest was easy.

The Surprising Consequences

After my two-month experiment, I noticed some significant changes. My face cleared up almost instantly, and I found myself eating less at social events. I also felt more energized on weekends and was more likely to have a good workout. But the most important change was the realization that I could give up other unhealthy habits. Halfway through my experiment, I decided to quit foods with added sugar, and it was easier than I thought.

The Takeaway

Giving up alcohol for two months was a game-changer for me. It showed me that I’m capable of making significant changes to my habits and that I don’t have to be stuck in my comfort zone. I’ve become a big fan of self-experiments, and I believe that pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones can lead to big changes over time. Whether it’s trying to get six-pack abs, do a handstand, or simply be extra nice, there’s incredible value in experimenting and trying out new healthy habits.