Wow, what a ride it's been! I can't believe Dry July has come to an end, and let me tell you, it's been one heck of a journey. As a life coach, I took on the challenge myself, and boy, am I proud of the results!
First things first, let's talk about sleep. I used to toss and turn like a circus performer, but during Dry July, my sleep transformed. Studies have shown that even a moderate reduction in alcohol consumption can lead to a 10-15% increase in deep, restorative sleep. And I can validate this wholeheartedly - as can my FitBit!!!
I'm still a work in progress as I do still tend to wake up between 2.30 - 3.30am but my sleep improved substantially over the month without the wine in my system.
Note: Image of alcohol free champagne - of course! :)
To my hormones. Oh boy, I was so used to those emotional rollercoasters I had just accepted 'that's who I am'... and blamed it solely on peri-menopause. But guess what? It's actually NOT who I am - and maybe I can't solely blame it on peri-menopause... gulp. I have definitely benefited by not having the wine in my system, and feeling more in control of my emotions. Bonus? the world doesn't seem like such a crazy place anymore (although let's be honest, it is still Crazy!).
As a mum, this journey has been precious (and quite frankly, overdue). Spending quality time with my girls without the distraction of alcohol was a huge positive. We laughed, we cried (happy tears!), we went to the beach, went on hikes, shopped and ate out - and bonded like we haven't in a long time. My 10 year old even stated at the family dinner that 'you're more fun now mum'. Priceless - and it does make me cringe a little with shame as well.
Now, let's talk friendships. I've always cherished my girlfriends, but Dry July brought us even closer. Sober hangouts turned into heart-to-heart chats and unforgettable adventures. A highlight was a recent weekend away shopping till our wallets stopped working, eating at spectacular restaurants and watching dolphins frolic in the bay on early morning walks... who knew there was so much fun to be had without the booze?
Well I did know... but confession - it had been a while. Now, I will also state that my friends didn't participate in Dry July, but supported me whole-heartedly. There was not one drop (pun intended) of coercion or mocking. Just 100% support. My friends are AMAZING!!!
And the cherry on top: my anxiety and stress levels have plummeted. I won't lie, it was tough at times, but I learned healthier ways to cope. Hello, distractions!!! I'd say - without any hesitation - that my anxiety has reduced by about 75%. Now, I feel lighter, more at ease, and ready to take on whatever life throws my way.
And I feel that way from the moment I get up. Contrast that to before when my first thought was 'oh god, did I drink last night, and how much?' as that would directly impact the way I felt about the impending day ahead. And let's not forget how unproductive working with a hangover can be.
Sure, there were moments when I missed the occasional glass (or two) of Pinot Noir, especially when socialising, but the benefits far outweighed the temporary buzz. I've become more confident, resilient, and aware of the power I hold in making choices that align with my well-being.
Dry July might be over, but the positive impact will stay with me - well, for August as I've decided to continue. I'm not saying it's forever, but I am so grateful for this experience and the growth it brought into my life. And to be honest, I love that I wake up now knowing that I've done the best thing for my health, and my actions haven't harmed me, my family or my relationships in any way. And that I am turning up as my best self for my wonderful clients and in some small way, demonstrating to them that any change is possible.
So, wherever you are on the alcohol consumption journey, always remember that you are here to live your best life and that you're capable of achieving anything you set your mind to. Even small changes can make a huge different in our health and overall wellbeing.
So here's to us, to living our best lives, and to supporting each other every step of the way!
Cheers to the strong, empowered, and fabulous women we are! 🌟💪🥂
Love, Amanda
PS: To challenge myself further, I've decided that I'm cutting out any 'excess' sugars in August. So goodbye to cakes, biscuits, chocolate covered macadamias, Portugese tarts and ice-cream. {Insert sad face} but hopefully better results on the scales come 1 Sept!