Alcohol Lately

The pandemic changed my habits. And my relationship with alcohol.  

When Rob and I first became Christians, we made a conscious decision not to drink. Not only because we didn’t feel the need, but also because the church we attended encouraged us not to, as it might cause another person to stumble. That was their culture, so we fell in line. 

When we moved to Texas, we saw that many pastors were drinking in moderation. We hadn’t experienced that before.  At first it surprised us, but seeing it normalized eventually changed our views on alcohol, and we would partake every once in awhile. 

I really didn’t drink often at all. Then the pandemic happened. It was so strange but it seemed everyone was at home doing unusual things – partially to keep sane. And partially out of necessity. Creating beautiful work-from-home spaces. A lot of DIY’s. Zoom call parties and FaceTimes to connect with friends. Church online. And more drinking. 

For me, things ever so slowly escalated from there. One day I woke up and realized that I was steadily craving a glass of wine or two with dinner almost every night, and that it had been a part of every single social occasion of recent memory, including church events and gatherings.

Coming from someone who didn’t drink at all for eight years, I felt like it was a huge departure from my old self. And on top of that, I never actually woke up feeling like, “Wow, I’m so glad I had a glass of wine last night!” 

As I’m learning about hormones, I’m seeing lots of info on how alcohol is additionally burdensome on the elusive sleep, sudden weight gain and rapid aging that already come with perimenopause and menopause. 

So, I’ve decided to put the alcohol down and make it what it used to be for me: a rare occurrence. 

Instead, I’ve been having mocktails to allow me the ritual of a nightcap. Sometimes I picture pouring health into my body when I drink mine. And at social gatherings I’ve been drinking sparkling waters. It’s a gift to my future self. Sure, I’ve had nights I wanted a drink, but I’ve never opened my eyes in the morning and thought, “Man, I wish I would have had a glass of wine last night!” 

It’s been over a month and I feel great. I know progesterone and supplements are helping me in my perimenopausal journey, but I can’t deny how cutting alcohol has accelerated my body’s journey back to normalcy. 

(Above: That’s me enjoying a mocktail after refreshing the fireplace for spring!)

For you, maybe it’s not about alcohol, but do you ever think about what you are doing for your future self? Tomorrow’s you? Sometimes you’ll make a decision for her in the moment, and sometimes you’ll plan ahead for her. Whatever you do, I hope you’ll do something kind for your future self each day.

If you’re looking for some great mocktail recipes, my friend Olivia has the most beautiful creations!