Hello all
A shiny new thread for those that would like to give up alcohol forever and a shiny new OP. (twirls)
The wonderful Drybird started these thread a loooong time ago and I'm sure many of you will agree that it has made such a massive difference to the lives of those who have read them or posted on them. Drybird would like to take a little break from hosting the threads so asked me if I would start one this time. The suggestion was that we can take it in turns after that which I think is a great idea .
Anyone is welcome to join and post but please be aware that this thread is for those of us who want to give up alcohol completely. It doesn't matter if you are on day 1, week 6 or year 5 (and it doesn't matter how many day 1s you have), there just has to be an intention to let go of alcohol altogether. So please no talk of moderating or drinking at the present moment or in the future, it can be triggering for some of us. There are many other wonderful threads for those who would prefer to moderate and we wish you well. If you decide that total abstinence is for you then come back.
It doesn't matter what your reason is, if you feel like it's an issue then you are welcome. It really is a friendly bunch. I also want to say hello to all the lurkers who don't want to post for one reason or another and say I hope that these threads give you support too.
There are many threads before this so if you are new, do look back, there is always at least a link to the last one at the beginning of each. Every thread is rich with advice and support. I personally have felt held in so many ways by each and everyone who has posted and I don't feel I would be here at 1yr2 months sober without it. Post daily, hourly even if it helps or just dip in now and again when you feel the need. It's not always the easist thing to do but it is worth it and it is easier with a group as supportive as this. We are each other's cheerleaders and underatns where we are coming from when the times are tough.
Here is the link to the last one....
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/alcohol_support/4324737-Freedom-An-alcohol-free-thread-for-alcohol-free-people
These threads have been a lifesaver for so many of us with ideas from AF alternatives, Quit Lit suggestions to why our brains are wired the way they are and what tools we can learn to help us break free from the fog of alcohol. But most of all it's a lovely safe space where we can talk, vent, moan, ask questions, give advice and support each other. As we get to know each other there is also a lot of daily chat about what's going on in our lives - running, books, gardening, yoga and family. It really is a warm, welcoming and friendly space so do join in.
The suggestion to get this thread going is for everyone to have a think of what they gain from not drinking, what are the positives? Or if you are on day 1 then what is the thing you are most looking forward to? Let's let go of the idea that we are denying ourselves something or that we are living less than and list what we are gaining instead.
My main positive (in amongst all the fresh skin, clear head, lack of hangovers, lack of shame better health - physically and mentally, I could go on and on........) is the fact that I don't have the eternal converation in my head going round of whether to have a drink that day or not. I am (mostly) free from that and it is amazing!
So whether you are a regular or a newbie, do say hello and introduce yourself.
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Alcohol support
The Freedom Thread - Enjoying the positives of an alcohol free life
Breathmiller · 02/10/2021 18:47
Morning. Day 30.
I'm just having a cup of tea and a moment of reflection (ie reading this thread). Thanks @iamyourequal I know you're right about going through changes and need to go easy on ourselves at the moment. I'm trying to be reflective and observe myself. I need to be very careful actually as there is a risk that I will think F**k this I need to party 
. I might need to start running again...
Hello @HangingOver we haven't 'met' but I have read a lot of the early threads and so remember you from there. Hope you are enjoying Greece 
@Newmum29 Happy Belated Birthday and great you enjoyed it. Your post sounds really positive, good planning for the 15th, I'm out then too and avoiding telling my friend that I'm not drinking . It's mainly because she's really looking forward to it and I don't want her to think it will be spoiled if I'm not drinking (that's how I used to feel). Any how, have a great day and I hope your baby allows you a bit more of a sleep this morning
Good morning 
A suggestion, if it might help is to maybe write stuff down?
The 2nd week of being AF I bought myself a beautiful leather bound journal and a lovely pen (I used to drink Jamesons straight so yup about 40 quid lol) At the end of the day I made myself a coffee/lattè/cup of tea with a posh biscuit and trotted off to a quiet place and wrote how I felt
It's all about self love in the early stages, the 'reward' at the end of the day needs to be something other than booze, whatever works for you though.......
You will get times when you wane, it's natural as drinking is a habit but you'll all get there
Have a lovely day ❤
@KernowGirl181 hello! I missed your message before. Glad you're not beating yourself up and it's a good reminder that wine doesn't add anything to our lives. Good on you for your run. I need to get back into it myself. I've got loads and loads of work on but that's no excuse! I keep this thread very close to me at all times as it helps me to remember why I'm on this journey. Keep posting
Hello to the old faces, @Drybird2020, HangingOver, Bunnies and Breathmiller and @SparklingLime
These threads come up from time to time and I am still here cheering the old and new from the sidelines.
And I can't quite believe I am still saying this 22 months, in but I am still alcohol free these days and forever it seems. I am well past the point of desiring a drink and life has improved so much for me. I suppose one of the nicest things is not even thinking about wanting one and all the headspace and mental gymnastics that took up.
These threads helped me so much in the early days in keeping me accountable and giving me ideas of alternatives of occupying my time and dealing with other people.
This year I have went on holiday in a group where the booze was a big part of the evening and I've been to parties not knowing anyone and everything was still great.
If I can do it anyone can!
Just checking in, it's been a while since I've posted, but I still lurk on these threads. Thanks for the new one @Breathmiller and also thanks to @Drybird2020 for all the previous threads, they've been a great help to us all.
I'm on Day 711, my two year soberversary is later this month. Honestly, stopping drinking has been the best thing I have ever done. After Day 30, things fell into place and I just don't bother with alcohol any more.
It's so freeing, mentally, and I have so much time now. I no longer procrastinate, I enjoy being busy, productive and in control.
One thing I did find is a love of cake, so I never lost weight. But I'm working on that now, finding time to exercise and move more, eat sensibly and finally cut down on sugar. I'm trying to approach healthy eating in the same way as giving up alcohol; concentrating on the positives and what I can enjoy, rather than what I might be missing.
Good luck to everyone whatever stage you're at, life is just so much better without alcohol.
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