The holiday season is something a lot of people look forward to celebrating. There are decorations, holiday get together’s, exchanging of gifts, delicious food, and gathering with family and friends. And although this can bring joy for many, during recovery you may wonder how you can enjoy the holidays sober. This, of course, is a natural concern and you’re not alone.
A sober celebration is possible. If this is your first time going out since abstaining and even if it’s been several years, the holiday season can trigger old habits. It can also be a time of feeling lonely and isolated, which can bring out the temptation to drink alcohol or use drugs.
When it comes to preparing for the upcoming holiday season, there are some things you can do that can help you stay sober. Keep in mind, just because one tip doesn’t work or help you at all, it’s not a failure on your part or indicates something is terribly wrong. Continue down the list and discover something that speaks to you and what sparks your interest. What works for your friend may not work for you and vice versa.
Read on and discover ways you can enjoy a sober holiday season this year.
5 Tips on How to Celebrate the Holiday Season without Drugs or Alcohol
The temptation to relapse during the holidays can occur and feel overwhelmingly difficult. Whether it’s painful memories or feeling as though you are missing out, whatever to feel is very real and valid. And more often than not, substances are a part of many holiday celebrations and it can prove difficult to stay focused on your recovery.
The following provide some ways you can prepare and get through the holiday season and hang onto your sobriety while at it.
Host a Holiday Party
If your RSVP is more often no than yes, then host your own holiday party to catch up with friends and get to know new ones better. While the thought of a substance free party may sound foreign, you may find yourself surprised at people’s reaction. Sober social celebrations are actually gaining strength and popularity as more and more people question their relationship with drugs and alcohol. For many, the thought of a party with no distractions can feel like a breath of fresh air.
There are many ways you can plan your party. Some ideas include:
- Themed party
- Pot luck
- White elephant
- Non-alcoholic drink recipe share
- Karaoke
- Board games
- Contest
Volunteer with an Organization
For some, planning and organizing a holiday party can be overwhelming and, let’s face it, some people just aren’t into parties. One way you can get yourself out with others in a safe environment is through volunteering.
There are several volunteer opportunities throughout the year and holiday season. Choose one (or more!) that resound to you. Santa Rosa provides several opportunities for animal lovers as well as local, environmental programs. The Redwood Empire Food Bank supplies many ways you can give back to your community. Here you can donate food or your time to help feed the vulnerable in your community.
Train for a Marathon
Seriously! Training for a marathon requires strength of body and mind and can offer you many benefits that last throughout the year and lifetime. Start small or big-the choice is yours.
Santa Rosa provides a number of running opportunities for the beginner or advanced. From turkey runs to chases to a 5K “Festivus” the day after Christmas, Sonoma County is home to a wide variety of running and races that can help keep your wellness on track.
Take a No-Booze Cruise
For those who prefer to get away, consider a no-booze, sober cruise. You can travel the globe in a space that provides the ultimate in relapse prevention. Though not a treatment center on water, a sober cruise can be a good option for those in recovery who want to travel with all the amenities and entertainment close at hand.
Many cruise lines offer alcohol free accommodations or alcohol-free cruise ships. Here you can enjoy on-board games and activities, swimming, sunning, and live entertainment.
Start New Traditions
Too often, we fall into the trap of doing something because that’s how it’s always been done…even when that something doesn’t work for everyone anymore. Make this holiday season different by doing something that celebrates your values, personality, interests, or all of the above!
Enjoy Sobriety Over the Holiday Season
The holiday season can feel joyful and overwhelming for a of people. Know your triggers, limits, and create a plan that can help you overcome these feelings. Remember to give time to yourself and others during this time and check in for added support when needed.
Pura Vida offers evidence-based addiction treatment options that fit your life, including detoxification. For a confidential consultation, contact us today.
