Thinking About Going Sober? The Benefits of an Alcohol Hiatus
STAYing Sober Post Dry January
Model: Tess Annique | Dress: Galia Lahav | Photographer: Valorie Darling
Have you ever had the urge to make a change in your life? You know, that need to experience something different? You already shake it up at the gym, and attend those yoga classes that help you feel centered, plus you just got that haircut last week… So what’s missing? We know that most things in life are out of our control, but that is why focusing on the things we do have agency over is so important. As we explore this transformative state of mind, may we suggest an alcohol hiatus?
Healthy eating may be your go-to, but what about healthy drinking? One of the allures of a “dry January” is starting off the new year with a clean slate, literally. Think of those 31 days as a full body cleanse — an opportunity to challenge your sense of self control. But, if like us you skipped this trend, why wait till next January? Giving in to our sober-curiousity, we brought back model and wellness coach, Tess Annique to share with us the benefits she experienced from an alcohol hiatus, as well as her tips to staying sober.
TESS ANNIQUE’S TOP 4 TIPS TO GET (OR STAY) SOBER
Make space for new energy.
“My sobriety date is October 13, 2017. It completely changed my life. Everything I have is a direct result of my sobriety. My life has gotten even bigger and better than I could have imagined. It’s a beautiful thing to show up for life authentically and experience all the emotions as is. I wish everyone could experience this type of peace.”
To drink or not to drink.
“It took about six months of continuous sobriety until I looked in the mirror one day and noticed that I physically looked different. The bloating was gone, my face was slimmer. I lost 15 pounds by not trying, by just not drinking. Then I started getting into working out and my body completely changed. Mentally it takes a while for this haze to go away. But when you become clear headed, it’s like looking through the world with a new pair of glasses. I’m forever grateful for my recovery.”
The glass half full approach.
“If I go out at night, I’m typically with my husband who is also sober. We get sparkling water with lemon or lime. I’ve noticed that as long as you have a glass in your hand, no one really asks questions. We love going to concerts and dinner, but I can’t remember the last time I was out past midnight. I’m like Cinderella, I’ll turn into a pumpkin if I’m out that late.”
Lose the hangover, not the fun.
“I love making a nonalcoholic margarita. I love to use Ritual Tequila along with some tajin and jalapeños to make a spicy marg! In my past life (pre sobriety) my favorite cocktail was a lychee martini from Nobu. I’ve discovered a way to make a nonalcoholic version: I use Ritual Gin with organic lychee juice. You can even add some edible flowers or lychee if you wish!” Of course we can’t forget about the wine lovers out there. “I really love Surely wines, the red wine is my favorite. And Fre Wines is divine, they have great rosé too!”
