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Create Sober Traditions
Establishing new sober traditions for the holiday season can help divert your focus from alcohol-centric ones. Whether it's baking cookies, watching classic holiday movies, or creating homemade decorations, these traditions are more true to the spirit of the holidays than engaging in substances. They emphasize genuine connections with your family and friends over superficial ones. Over time, you will realize everyone finds your new holiday traditions just as lovely, if not more than the old ones.
Here are some sober holiday activities you can try out or make a regular part of your holiday celebrations.
Host a Game Night
Invite friends and family over for board games, card games, or a trivia quiz. Laughter and friendly competition can make for memorable moments.
Plan a Movie Marathon
Choose a theme or favorite movie series and have a cozy movie night at home. Don't forget the popcorn!
Decorate Your Home
Transform your living space into a winter wonderland with holiday decorations. Get creative and involve loved ones in the process.
Attend a Concert or Live Performance
Many communities host holiday-themed concerts, ballets, or theater productions. Enjoy a night out while appreciating the arts.
Explore Nature
Take advantage of the colder weather by going for hikes, building a snowman, or ice skating with loved ones. Nature has a calming and rejuvenating effect, making it an excellent choice to celebrate the holidays while staying sober.
Attend Sober Events
Many communities now host alcohol-free holiday events specifically designed for those in recovery. These events can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals who share your commitment to staying sober.
Create Homemade Gifts
Engaging in creative arts and crafts can be a wonderful way to stay sober during the holidays. Whether it's painting, drawing, crafting holiday decorations, or making personalized gifts, the act of creative expression can be therapeutic and fulfilling. These activities provide a healthy outlet for self-expression and can serve as a distraction from cravings or temptations.
Plan a Day of Gratitude
Gather friends and family to share what you're grateful for. Focusing on gratitude can shift your perspective and deepen your connections.
Volunteer Together
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the holiday season is the act of giving. Spend time as a group volunteering at a local shelter, soup kitchen, or charity event. Not only does this help you stay focused on the true meaning of the holidays, but it also reinforces the positive impact you can have on other people’s lives. Helping others in need can be a powerful reminder of how far you've come in your recovery journey.
Bring Your Own Beverages
It can seem difficult to socialize while sober when you don’t have practice. At holiday gatherings, you might often find people around you having a drink in their hand and feel the pressure to do the same. Bringing your preferred non-alcoholic beverages or ensuring there are such options available is a proactive step in enjoying events soberly.
There are many non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, juices, kombuchas, and non-alcoholic beer and wine, along with traditional holiday beverages such as eggnog, hot chocolate, and hot cider, that you can partake in at social events.
You can always try to review menus online or call ahead of time to plan what drinks will work for you. Many venues now include mocktail offerings that are fun, festive, and seasonal, allowing you to celebrate without the need for alcohol.
Shift The Focus From Drinks to Food
To promote a sober environment, focus on food as the centerpiece of your celebrations. You can do this even better when you’re the one organizing the gathering.
You could organize a cookie bake-off, where participants compete and exchange delicious creations. For Christmas, decorating cookies or making gingerbread houses is a tried-and-tested tradition. You can also hold a friendly competition for the best holiday-themed dip, appetizer, or mocktail, allowing everyone to cast their votes and award a sober-friendly prize such as a gift card.
Know Your Triggers and Have Support on Standby
As a rule, make sure to look within yourself to identify your triggers. Understand how those triggers may arise throughout an event and what you may need to work through them. Once those triggers are identified, it can be helpful to have someone supportive and sober with you to rely on during those moments of temptation. They can help keep you from relapsing and effectively work through triggers as they arise.
It's entirely normal to experience moments of vulnerability. Don't hesitate to reach out to your support network when you need it. Whether it's a trusted friend, family member, or a therapist, talking to someone you trust can make a world of difference in maintaining your sobriety.
The National Helpline for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) and offers confidential assistance 24/7.
Set Realistic Expectations
It's essential to manage your expectations during the holiday season. For those in recovery, the pressure to be perfect or to meet unrealistic standards can lead to anxiety and stress. Remember that it's okay to prioritize your well-being. Be honest with yourself and others about your needs and limitations, and seek support when necessary.
Leave If Necessary
Choosing to leave an event is always a preferable option compared to falling back into old habits. While socializing and being part of a community are vital for your recovery, it's crucial to recognize your limits.
To prepare for such situations, consider driving yourself to gatherings. This provides you with the flexibility to leave whenever you feel it's necessary, whether it's for your comfort, safety, or maintaining your sobriety. Your well-being should always be the top priority.
Start Your Journey To Sobriety Today
The holiday season should be a time of joy, connection, and celebration for everyone, especially those on the path to recovery. By embracing new traditions, connecting with your support network, and engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit, you can enjoy a fulfilling and sober holiday season. Remember, your journey is something to be proud of, and the holidays can be a beautiful reminder of the strength and resilience you possess.
If you're interested in learning more about the journey to sobriety or seeking support for yourself or someone you know, Studio 64 Recovery is here to help. We offer a wide range of resources and programs designed to support individuals in their recovery journeys.
Reach out to our dedicated team to learn more about our services and find the support you need to embark on a fulfilling life in sobriety.
