View Single Post
Old 02-19-2017, 12:57 AM
  # 8 (permalink)  
FeelingGreat
Sober since 10th April 2012
 
FeelingGreat's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Posts: 6,047
Hi noel, no need to cross your fingers because there's an art and technique to giving up drinking, once you've realised it's what you want.

Firstly be aware of triggers. birthdays, 'rewarding' yourself, depression, celebration - make your own list. Once you're aware it's coming, or even if it's unexpected, you can deal with the cravings. For me it was leaving work in the afternoon.

Substitute other activities and relaxation rituals like afternoon walk, cup of tea, a juice, something sweet, something savoury, a non-alcoholic treat.

Don't let yourself get too tired or hungry or thirsty. Eat regularly and early. At first your brain will treat any stressor as a sign to drink because that's been your go-to, but you can train it differently.

I found taking 5 deep breaths, concentrating on my body, took care of any passing craving. It's a quick relaxation technique.
FeelingGreat is offline