Sober Holiday Tip Seventeen - Keep or Return?

Today is Day 17 of enjoying a sober holiday season, and if you've been maintaining sobriety for these two weeks, you probably have noticed some changes - physical and mental.

When you stop drinking alcohol, your body undergoes both emotional and physical changes. Physically, your body begins to heal itself from the damage caused by alcohol. Your liver can regenerate, and the risk of liver disease decreases. Your immune system also strengthens, making you less prone to illnesses. Your skin can become clearer, and your eyes can appear brighter.

Emotionally, you may experience a range of feelings as you adjust to life without alcohol. At first, you may feel anxious, irritable, and restless. This is because your body has become used to the calming effects of alcohol, and it takes time for your brain chemistry to adjust. However, as your body detoxes and you begin to feel healthier, you may also feel a sense of pride and accomplishment in your decision to quit drinking.

Unfortunately, our physical and emotional changes in the first two weeks can be difficult. Like some of the gifts you got at Christmas that you aren't sure about and are thinking of returning or exchanging, sobriety doesn't feel comfortable at first.

Sobriety is a gift to yourself, and to your loved ones.

Before you think of giving up when it's hard, remember that this is temporary and in just a couple more weeks your body and your emotions will begin healing and leveling back to a healthy state.

Getting sober isn't easy, but it's worth it.