While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a glass of wine or a cold beer after a long day, alcohol should not be your only way to unwind. If you’re in the process of kicking the drinking habit or trying to find ways to relax without alcohol, try these alcohol-free alternatives instead. These techniques will help you relieve stress and have a healthier life.
Contents
Test Out Some Alcohol-Free Drinks
Numerous non-alcoholic beverages, like a refreshing virgin mojito, are equally delicious without liquor. While macro-level attempts to reduce alcohol availability by expanding the variety of low- or non-alcoholic drink options may have had little success, growing these options at the micro-level, within drinking environments that people are exposed to, may have more success. In general, alcohol drinkers are more likely to pay for canned drinks that aren’t alcoholic than non-drinkers. Additionally, those who claim to desire to cut back on alcohol do exhibit a greater preference for non-alcoholic beverages.
Meditation
If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the end of a long day, meditation can be a helpful way to calm your nerves and unwind. According to research, meditation can decrease stress and anxiety and help you feel better overall. Meditation is a mindfulness practice that helps you focus on breathing and thoughts. You can find guided meditations online or on apps designed to promote relaxation. Whether you’re new to meditation or want to learn more about it, start by researching. Once you know what type of meditation is right for you, set up a quiet and comfortable place. It can include a meditation room in your home or a park or hiking trail.
Exercise
When you work out, the endorphins that get released make you feel better. And exercise can also relieve stress.
In addition, physical activity improves your sleep. That’s because it can help reduce anxiety and boost melatonin levels, a hormone that promotes relaxation.
It also raises your heart rate and strengthens muscles. That may facilitate easier and deeper sleep for you.
However, start slowly and increase your exercise intensity over time. To determine what level of exercise is best for you, talk with a doctor or fitness professional.
Choosing activities that you enjoy helps you stay motivated to work out. It can also help prevent injury.
Listen to Music
Listening to music can be a great option if you’re looking for an alcohol-free way to unwind after a long day. It’s a simple and inexpensive way to de-stress.
The ability to listen to music for pleasure is an essential part of our brains. This same reward system that enables feelings of joy from sex, food, and recreational drugs is also critical for experiencing musical pleasure. According to studies, listening to music might promote relaxation and improve sleep. It can also enhance learning and memory. For this reason, it’s essential to choose high-quality music.
Reading a Book
If you want to relax at the end of a long day, reading a book is an alcohol-free way. Research suggests that reading can significantly reduce stress and even help you sleep better at night. Another advantage of reading a book is that it can help you learn new skills and improve your vocabulary. It can help you communicate better in a variety of situations.
Moreover, reading can help you learn about different cultures and countries. It can also help you get inspired to accomplish your goals and dreams. Reading can also help you develop a more positive mindset, which is essential for your overall health and well-being. A recent study found that people who read at least 3 1/2 hours a week were 23 percent more likely to live longer than those who didn’t.
Spend Time with Family
If you’re looking for an alcohol-free way to unwind after a long day, spending time with your family is the best choice. According to research, it can provide a safe place for emotional support and reduce stress.
Spending time with family can strengthen your bonds with your loved ones. It is because you can focus on each other’s needs and enjoy each other’s company without worrying about work or other commitments. It’s crucial to make the time to speak with your family and engage them in a thorough discussion of your problems. It will help reduce stress and allow you to cope with challenges more effectively.
Yoga
After a hard day, yoga is a great stress-relieving activity. This ancient practice from India combines stretching exercises with breathwork and meditation.
The practice also decreases cortisol levels — a hormone that can cause elevated stress levels.
Adding a few yoga poses to your evening routine can help you relax and wind down before bed. Poses like a child’s pose are remarkably calming and can help you tune out the rest of the world for deep, peaceful sleep. Another alcohol-free way to unwind after a long day is to light candles and take a hot bath. Aside from helping you grow, a soak in the tub can also boost your mood and energy levels.
