Just a quick blog post today…

Embracing Sobriety in Your 50s: A Personal Journey

In a world that often glorifies youth and the carefree spirit of one's younger years, it can be empowering to make significant life changes as you enter your 50s. One such transformative decision that more women in their 50s are making is choosing sobriety. Whether you've had a lifelong relationship with alcohol or, like me, only enjoyed a few units occasionally, the decision to stop drinking can be a powerful and liberating one. In this blog post, we'll explore the experiences and motivations of women in their 50s who have decided to embrace sobriety once and for all.

For me, it was the recent experience of just having one bottle of cider on a Friday night, that just made me feel so sluggish and that I had completely lost most of Saturday morning getting out of the funky feeling.

The Decision to Stop Drinking

For many women in their 50s, the choice to stop drinking alcohol stems from a variety of factors. While some may have had a history of heavy drinking and its associated consequences, others, like you, may have consumed alcohol in moderation but decided that it was time for a change. The reasons behind this decision can be diverse and deeply personal.

One deeply personal point for me, is that problems with alcohol have occurred in my family before. Also, after a breakup in 2015 and the subsequent insomnia that happened, it genuinely felt like grief, and I was drinking neat vodka from the bottle to help me sleep. You will not be surprised to learn that it did nothing to help, but it did numb.

One common motivation is improved health. As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Even a few units a month can impact your overall well-being, from sleep quality to liver function. Choosing sobriety can help you feel more energized, sleep better, and reduce the risk of alcohol-related health issues.

Embracing Clarity and Empowerment

In your 50s, you've likely experienced a wealth of life lessons, and with that wisdom comes a sense of self-assuredness. Many women in their 50s find that embracing sobriety allows them to tap into this newfound self-confidence and clarity. When alcohol is no longer a part of your life, you may discover a greater sense of control and empowerment.

Sobriety can also bring mental clarity. It allows you to fully engage with your emotions, thoughts, and experiences, unclouded by the numbing effect of alcohol. This newfound mental clarity can lead to deeper self-discovery and personal growth, as well as enhanced relationships with loved ones.

Navigating Social Situations

One common concern for women in their 50s who decide to stop drinking is how to navigate social situations. Alcohol often plays a significant role in social gatherings, and the pressure to partake can be strong. However, many find that their decision to embrace sobriety is respected and even admired by friends and family.

Explaining your choice and finding supportive social circles can make this transition smoother. Additionally, you may discover that you enjoy socializing more without alcohol, as you can fully engage in conversations and create lasting memories.

Embracing New Experiences

Sobriety isn't just about giving up something; it's also about gaining new experiences and opportunities. In your 50s, you have a wealth of time and energy to invest in hobbies, interests, and adventures that may have been overshadowed by alcohol in the past. Whether it's traveling, pursuing a new career path, or engaging in creative endeavors, sobriety can open doors to a more fulfilling life.

The Gift of Self-Care

As a woman in her 50s, you understand the importance of self-care and overall well-being. Sobriety is one of the most profound forms of self-care you can give yourself. It's a gift that keeps on giving, offering better health, mental clarity, empowerment, and a deeper connection to yourself.

In conclusion, the decision to stop drinking alcohol in your 50s, even if it was just a few units a month, is a powerful and transformative choice. It's about embracing health, clarity, empowerment, and the freedom to explore new experiences. It's a journey of self-discovery and self-care that can lead to a more fulfilling and vibrant chapter in your life. So, cheers to the women in their 50s who are choosing sobriety and embracing the beauty of this new chapter!

I have heard of a few non alcoholic bars opening, notable in New York City, and Bristol! I am looking forward to the experience coming north of the border!

Let me know your thoughts.

I remember a lot of ‘lad culture’ from people like Zoe Ball, Sara Cox, Kate Moss even, and I think that now we are all in our 50s, they have decided to knock alcohol on the head.

I have never had a good return on investment with it, and I certainly don’t enjoy the booze blues or the mental come down I have experienced.