How a Temporary Break From Alcohol Eased My Anxiety
I wanted to understand why so many of my peers were taking the sober path. Is it because we've grown up in an era where 'wellness' is a lifestyle—an era in which green juices, adaptogens and matcha lattes are as trendy as some clothing brands? Or, is it that our health consciousness has combined with our notorious predisposition for anxiety has naturally led to a boycott on booze?
To find out, I decided to give sobriety a two month trial for myself. Spoiler: Since my experiment, I have gone back to drinking alcohol from time to time. Still, I truly believe that the experiment changed me for the better. It helped me understand how alcohol impacts me in every way, from my emotions to my physical health. It also helped me be more mindful of my reasons for wanting a drink and better at knowing when I might be attempting to use alcohol as an emotional crutch. Most importantly, it helped me get a handle on my anxiety—something I always thought was out of my control.
How the body responds to quitting alcohol
When you quit alcohol, your body starts a recovery process that can be noticed within the first 24 hours. The liver, which is primarily responsible for metabolizing alcohol, begins to detoxify, which reduces liver inflammation and improves its functions. In the first few days, blood sugar levels also stabilize, as alcohol interferes with glucose regulation.
After one or two weeks, improvements in sleep quality and skin hydration are common. Studies have shown that long term abstinence from alcohol reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, strengthens the immune system, and improves the balance of the intestinal microbiota.
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