Does anyone cutdown and keep it at that?

[StarlightIntheNight]

I would like to drink less. After having children, I started to drink most evenings. Never more then half a bottle. But this is usually 5-6 nights a week. I have started to cut back to 4 nights a week and I am now trying to do just 3 nights a week. I rarely ever go out, so drinking never is more then 2 large glasses or 3 small ones. However, I feel like its such a bad habit and worry that it could eventually increase. So I am cutting back. I am slim, get regular work outs, walk everywhere. So at least that is a positive in the right direction.

Today, I felt a little grumpy in the evening. Its almost like, what do I have to look forward to? I love having a nice glass of wine while I cook or while I relax. I tried tea...but that didn't feel as nice. What else could I do? I do love a nice bath. But I have already had one today after my work out. What else is there that could be come a nice evening ritual to relax. I don't like hot chocolate or sweets much, nor do I want to switch one bad habit for another. Anyone else have some other nice ideas on what they do?

Top of my list would be bath. I LOVE baths. But I usually have one every day anyway, so I need something else. I am starting to get back into my gym routine and that is something I enjoy. But need something for evenings as well. Gym is morning.

[msnowtybach]

I have replaced my nightly wine with a bottle or two of non alcoholic beer or a tonic water with ice and lime. They feel grown up and special, but don't have the guilt of having alcohol in them.

[jazzandh]

I have also replaced wine with non-alcoholic alternatives. I have beers, sparkling wines, and even the ridiculously expensive seedlip.......so a good choice.

They are much lower in calories, so I also have some nice snacks with them.

However in order for this to work for me, I have had to cut out all drinking at home unless "socialising" ie friends round.

[StarlightIntheNight]

Funny you mention seedlip. I saw the store for it a couple weeks ago and was wondering what it was. I did not go in, but I remember the name. Perhaps will try that some time. I have been cutting back and its gotten a lot easier actually. I am now on day 4. I plan to save drinking for Friday and Saturday. Just a couple of glasses of wine. I am not really missing it, so its been easier then I thought. I have now gotten back into working out, so I look forward to that. :)

[ChelseaBabbage]

I recommend a soda maker. You can mix posh cordials with soda so they are not too sweet. Elderflower or pomegranate are my favourite.
I used to drink half a bottle 5 nights a week. I cut down by having one small glass followed by a long soft drink. I also don't drink wine with food as I just guzzle if I'm eating.
On days I'm not drinking I tend to eat more sweet stuff chocolate ice cream. I'm a healthy weight so figure it's better for me than wine.
Have kept my alcohol consumption down significantly for years now.