Alcohol-free options that go beyond a can of soda have taken off on airlines as well—at least in the front of the plane. Virgin Atlantic, for instance, has stocked the bar of its upper class cabin with alcohol-free beer. By managing your time well, you can enjoy the holidays while staying committed to your sobriety journey. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the meal and the company, not the alcohol.
AA Meetings Holiday Schedule and Access
It has a variety of resorts, yoga retreats, and SPA retreats that will not only keep you from alcohol but also give you some pleasant self-care. You can plan fun things around town, such as visiting local museums, staying in a local hotel, and eating at restaurants you don’t usually visit. Staycations are usually easy to plan if you live in a larger metropolitan area. Sober travels are transformative; it’s time we rise above the crazy hangovers, throw up in bars, lose who we are in alcohol, and explore new ideas.
Sober Retreats in Europe
Our telehealth program gives you access to expert medical support, online coaching meetings, anti-craving medications, virtual support groups, and more—all from an app on your smartphone. Managing personal stress helps them remain supportive and compassionate. Being present, offering encouragement, and celebrating each step forward help nurture a positive environment conducive to recovery during the holiday season. Seeking professional help is crucial if emotional challenges become overwhelming. Therapy or counseling provides a safe space to process feelings, develop coping skills, and reinforce commitment to sobriety.
Indulge in Culinary Experiences
Some retreats also focus on nutrition, providing workshops on healthy eating. This encourages me to learn about the benefits of a balanced diet. This allows me to fully engage in activities during the day, enhancing my overall enjoyment. I was attracted by the combination of yoga AND hiking, which I really love both, the small group and the fact that it is situated in Europe. The lovingly furnished glamping tents and the amount of positive feedback convinced me. – In my opinion, the yoga sessions were high quality and and challenged me out of my comfort zone. All participants were open-minded and Marita and Sabin encouraged getting into contact.
How can loved ones support someone in recovery during the holiday season?
- Set up specific times for calls or video chats with your sponsor or recovery friends before you leave.
- At Ria, we offer weekly meetings with certified counselors to help members stay on track and build skills for long-term change.
- This can place individuals at a greater risk of returning to old habits or seeking treatment again.
- Establishing a routine that prioritizes self-care and mental health can work wonders.
- These activities foster a sense of belonging and purpose, which are crucial during the often stressful holiday period.
- Three sober years, 36 countries, 113 travellers (totally dry), fuelled by street food, jelly babies, and a broken Google Maps app.
This period, often swamped with parties and social gatherings, is an opportune moment to celebrate personal sober holidays milestones. Surviving Holidays Sober in Vermont 2024 Hosting sober celebrations can be highly gratifying, as individuals commemorate their progress surrounded by loved ones who support their journey. These gatherings create lasting memories and help reinforce the reasons behind choosing sobriety. Connecting with sobriety support groups provides an additional layer of support crucial during the holidays. These groups, often including both AA and NA meetings, create a nurturing space for individuals seeking guidance and fellowship. Participating in support groups during the holiday season encourages the sharing of coping strategies and prevention plans against relapse.
- Engaging in crafts or projects can help occupy your mind and hands, reducing the temptation to drink.
- Integrating the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous into daily routines is pivotal for long-term recovery success.
- If you want to stay sober during the holidays, look for every opportunity to be of service.
- Every aspect of the retreat was meaningful, though a week was simply not enough.
This approach not only keeps you engaged but also provides lasting memories and deeper insights into the places you visit. If you know Cousin Sadie is going to grill you about rehab, avoid her. If Uncle Brian is going to mix you a stiff drink, stay away from him. If the office New Year’s party is really all about drinking or other drug use, make a brief appearance or don’t attend.
Next Steps
- Put your foot down regarding things you don’t want to do but be nice about.
- If someone offers you an alcoholic drink, simply holding up your beverage and replying, “I’m good, thanks,” is a stress-free way to sidestep peer pressure without explanation.
- Exploring local cuisine offers a sensory journey and a deeper understanding of the destination’s culture, all without the need for alcohol.
- On board many cruises, you will find recovery meetings and meet new friends in recovery.
- For these interactions, have strategies in place, like bringing a sober friend for support, identifying an escape plan if you need to leave early, or practicing responses for politely declining a drink.
The excitement and laughter from sledding create natural highs, replacing the need for alcohol-induced euphoria. Engage in friendly competition with timed runs or distance challenges. “I appreciate the offer, but I’m the designated driver this evening.” “Thanks, but I’m not drinking tonight. I’d love a soda instead.” I would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Green Point Villa and the people of Bali. Their warmth, hospitality, and genuine kindness made my experience unforgettable.
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If you can’t find a sober buddy, consider setting up check-in calls with a sponsor or sober friend before and after the event. Remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your choice not to drink. Even a short walk can make a significant difference in how you navigate the rest of your sober Christmas day. If possible, steer clear of events or locations where alcohol is the main focus. For example, skip the office happy hour and suggest a team lunch instead. By the end, you’ll have a toolkit to enjoy a sober, meaningful Christmas.
Understanding and Celebrating Sober Holidays
Include positive moments and personal growth observations to maintain motivation. Committing to attend a meeting during your trip alcoholism can help reinforce your sobriety goals and provide a familiar routine in an unfamiliar setting. Stick to your routine as much as possible, but also be flexible when necessary. Your routine should support your sobriety, not cause additional stress. Start your day with a brief meditation or mindfulness exercise. Iceland is primed for adventure, whether you’re using Reykjavik as your base, or you’re staying out in the wilderness at an aptly named adventure hotel (ION Adventure is brilliant).