What Is Sober Curious?

Posted by Care Addiction Center on July 26th, 2022

When you are relaxing in the evening, do you like to have a glass of wine? On the weekend, how about a beer? Have you had a few too many hangovers lately? Have you ever wondered how life would be without alcohol? People who are sober curious avoid alcohol for health or personal reasons by experimenting with sobriety. The purpose is to get a better understanding of how alcohol affects our daily lives. There is nothing new about sober curiosity. The benefits and challenges of sobriety challenges such as Dry January have inspired people to reevaluate alcohol use and living a sober life.

Benefits Of Being Sober

Drinking frequently or in excess can result in effects like hangovers, trouble sleeping and more long term effects like liver disease, and even alcoholism. Any of these factors can motivate someone to try being sober in order to improve their health. Adding fewer chemicals and toxins to the body will result in more benefits.

Improved Focus and Memory

You won't wake up with hangovers, you won't have fuzzy memories from the night before, and the realization that being present is better than numbing reality.

Improved Sleep

Even though some people find it easier to fall asleep after drinking alcohol, it doesn't guarantee good sleep. The Alcohol and Drug Foundation reports that alcohol interrupts REM sleep and the restorative benefits of good sleep.

Increased Energy

More restorative sleep leads to more energy.

Better Weight Management

It is natural for weight management to improve when drinking alcohol stops the munchies.

Healthier Skin

Alcohol introduces toxins into your body. Getting sober naturally improves the health of the skin - dark circles around the eyes fade, wrinkles can be ironed out, and even acne fades.

Living A Sober Curious Lifestyle

Getting sober curious gives you the chance to see how sobriety might fit into your life. Focus on what you will gain rather than what you will lose when weighing the benefits of short-term sobriety. Exploring your relationship with alcohol is the key.

Set A Time Frame

There are some people who avoid alcohol for two weeks, one month, or one year. Record the positive changes not drinking makes in your daily life.

Find Social Activities That Don’t Involve Drinking

Consider inviting friends for a walk, a trip to the beach or park or restaurant.

Find A Like-Minded Group

Many sober social groups gather online and in-person, and they’re not necessarily for recovering addicts. Try a new fitness class, meditation, pick up a musical instrument or learn a new language.

Try Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

Non-alcoholic beers, spirits and mocktails make it fun to try out new drinks and local spots without alcohol involved. Or head to a Sober Bar where people gather for hours to sip handmade mocktails, talk, dance and listen to speakers and sober musicians.

If you or a loved one need help for an addiction and want to know more about treatment programs, contact Care Addiction Center.