What things have you replaced alcohol with in your lives? Wine was my way of winding down/de-stressing at the end of the day and now I don’t know what to do during that time to replace it. Any routines or activities would be appreciated!
I am trying to figure out some ways but if i could maybe some reading that might help I hope you find something peaceful
I do alot of meditation and being out in nature but I would suggest trying different things and seeing what works journaling listening to music meditation exercise going for a walk calling a friend and so forth
So I would replace that time with walking and exercising.
Relaxing/Unwinding:
• Go for a walk or light jog (sunset walks are seriously calming).
• Listen to music or a podcast you enjoy.
• Take a warm shower or bath.
• Try some light stretching or yoga.
• Watch a comfort show or movie (something easy, not too heavy).
Creative/Engaging:
• Journal about your day — even just a few sentences.
• Read a book (fiction or something inspiring).
• Try drawing, even if you don’t think you’re good at it.
• Work on a hobby (woodworking, cars, cooking something new, etc.).
The time I spent starting my drinking I used to go to meetings. My drinking woukd start around 5-ish, aka Happy Hour. This would be the time I'd take the edge off.
Funny I would attend meetings named "Happy Hour." This would be a way to use the time where i would get funky. There is a saying about idle hands and the Devil!
The more I went to meetings regularly the more I would see regularly faces. I'm an introvert, I dont approach people at first generally. I was asked if I wanted to do something. I don't remember the activity, I do remember feeling happy that I bonged to a group and was part of the fold.
I learned to do things sober woth this group and laugh. One of the reasons why I prefer attending a brick and mortar meeting versus a virtual one.
I replaced my wine habit with a cup or 2 of sleepy time tea, or camomile tea or bedtime tea etc. Also, exercise or a shower, but a nice hot bath is always preferable to a shower …
Also, watching T.V. or calling someone, like my sister etc., etc
I enjoy watching 60 minutes or Grey’s Anatomy. Sometimes I walk on the treadmill while I’m watching T.V. in order to release endorphins. Also, you should look up Annie Grace & her books & her podcast & her This Naked Mind Companion app which you can download for free. You can find support there … good luck!!!
Greys Anatomy or a crime documentary hits different now that I’m sober!
I took up cooking I find it rather fun
Meditations, gym, meetings in the fellowship, back training in jiu jits!
Walking, meetings, offering to help newcomers and not taking things personally has helped a lot.
Listening to music, reading books, AA meetings, Walking.
At first I replaced it with a lot of self-work. I dove into healing, helping others, and joining groups, even when I was still struggling. It taught me so much about myself. Now, I really love spending time with family, relaxing, getting creative again, and finding happiness, peace and gratitude in simple things like writing or a good movie. It’s amazing how much life opens up when we make space for it.