#DrinkFreeDays with Drink Aware

27/10/2019

woman over 30


*This is a paid collaboration with Drink Aware

This month I have been working alongside Drinkaware and taking part in a four-week challenge to drink less alcohol and enjoy more drink-free days and to share my experiences with all of you. Growing up in South Africa meant that mealtimes usually included a small glass of wine (for the adults of course) and while I've never really drunk that much even on special occasions I do enjoy a glass of wine, cider or beer with my meals or when socialising with friends.

Despite not being a big drinker it was still a bit of a challenge to break the routine of wine with my evening meals regardless as humans are generally creatures of habit. I think that's what makes Drink Aware campaign really interesting in that no matter what your consumption is we can all make efforts to reduce it and feel the benefits from that.

Not only does it mean less empty calories with my meals, but I have also increased how much water I am drinking every day and that has had a positive effect on my skin and overall digestion. Alcohol can also affect sleep and it has to be said I don't get the best sleep as it is but I have seen an improvement these past few weeks which in turn has meant I've had more energy during the day and I need that when I have two active boys to look after.


drink tea


I've also found since I've got older I've become more comfortable and confident in my own skin and no longer need to have a drink to feel more relaxed in social settings, as I did when I was younger and with so many fantastic alcohol-free options out there it's easier than ever to make the switch. I love elderflower presse and with us getting closer to the festive season spiced apple drinks always go down a treat. I've also found that I've started drinking more herbal tea lately and it's really helped at night as instead of a glass of wine opting for a cup of camomile has left me feeling more calm and relaxed and easier to drift off into a more rested sleep.

What we have also done a lot this month as a family is getting up and out earlier and enjoying more of the day outside. My boys and I have enjoyed some fantastic walks and hikes this October and I've found my overall level of productivity has gone up and my mind feels less clouded despite the fact I wasn't drinking that much it's surprising the effect one or two glasses of wine can have on you. 


Welsh mountain

kids hike


What people don't know it that the weekly recommended limit for adults it only 14 units per week which works out at only 6 glasses of wine so if you're having a glass or two every night or your binge drinking on trips to the pub over the weekend your very quickly going well over the limit and putting yourself at risk of some serious health conditions.

I think it's really important especially as we age, to be honest with yourself and aware of your weekly consumption and you can do this by comparing your alcohol intake with the rest of the country by using the drink compare calculator. Taking our health into our own hands can be hugely beneficial and knowing where you stand is essential so even if you're nervous it's always best to know.

As I've already noticed the benefits I'm going to keep going with my Drink Free Days, not only is it good for my wellbeing but also my pocket! Of course, there are certain situations where I will enjoy a drink or two guilt-free such as birthdays, weddings, celebrations and Christmas and I 've always been someone who likes to live in moderation but during the week I am keeping to those Drink Free Days - why don't you?


Drink free days

22 comments:

  1. This website was... how do I say it? Relevant!! Finally I've found
    something which helped me. Thank you!

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    Replies
    1. Glad you found it really helpful, do pop by again

      Laura x

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  2. I don't drink very often but when I do I really feel so tired and sluggish so I can only imagine how well you must be feeling.

    It is such an important way to take care of ourselves. Good luck with the rest of your month x x

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    1. Yeah I'm not a big drinker either but just cutting out what I do drink has made a difference - more energy and better sleep for sure

      Laura x

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  3. I only ever have a drink at Christmas now or on a special occasion. We don't ever even have anything in the house.

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    1. Ohh that's a really good way to approach it :)

      Laura x

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  4. It's enormouѕ that you are getting thoughtѕ from this paragraph as well
    аs frpm our argument made here.

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  5. You are so right drinking is a habit, I am not a big drinker but easily get used to having wine at the weekends. We have been making a conscious effort that we don't really need it and funnily enough I don't really miss it.

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    1. That's really good to hear Sarah! Yes it can be so easy to have a little drink here and there especially on weekends

      Laura x

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  6. I do enjoy a glass or 2 of wine but I must say I do feel better for it when I don't drink, it really does help me sleep better!

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  7. I only drink at Christmas and maybe on new year if we go out . Definitely agree with drink free days for some though .

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    1. Yes me too - I'm also not a big drinker but have enjoyed increasing my drink free days for sure

      Laura x

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  8. II've made a really conscious effort to have lots more drink free days. It's easy to get into a routine of a glass of wine with a meal, but I now try to only have one on a Friday night. I certainly feel better for it!

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    1. So good to hear that Vicky and yes I agree certainly feel better for having more drink free days

      Laura x

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  9. I've never been a heavy drinker. I went completely without once for three years (pregnancy/nursing related) and didn't miss it at all. Now I have an occasional drink but in moderation.

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    1. Oh wow thats fantastic on the 3yrs - I also didn't drink when pregnant, did one or twice when breastfeeding (we he was 1yrs + already and were going with bigger gaps of not feeding)

      Laura x

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  10. I really need to take up this campaign and have a few more #drinkfree days. Even just the odd glass of wine when I’m making dinner but it all counts.

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    1. Yes it all adds up doesn't it, deffo a positive campaign to try

      Laura x

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  11. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  12. I must admit I definitely struggle with having drink freed ays but I think its so important.

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    1. I know but it's also good to have a break - I've deffo seen the positives so far

      Laura x

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Lovely comments

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