It’s an understatement to say that alcohol inundates our everyday lives. From raging nights out on the weekends to happy hour with coworkers, alcohol is a feature at nearly every night out, family event, and friendly excursion. That doesn’t mean you have to partake, however. Here are just a few of the many benefits of a sober lifestyle.
Sleep more soundly
Is there anything better than a restful night’s sleep? The right amount of sleep will make you feel better, use your brain’s full capacity, and provide the energy needed to conquer the day. It is almost a guarantee, however, that alcohol will mess up your sleep. That’s because alcohol disrupts your REM cycle, which is the period of sleep that encourages learning and memory. In short, REM allows your brain to function at its best capacity. A proper night’s sleep is truly one of the best benefits of a sober lifestyle.
Forget about forgetfulness
Mental clarity can change the very fabric of your everyday life, and with the help of sobriety, you can feel more on top of it than ever before. Many people who drink regularly report forgetting about events, important milestones, or even recent memories. Since alcohol tampers with you on a cognitive level, you may find your memory foggy. To truly get the most out of life and make memories that will stick with you, staying sober is the way to do it.
Save your money for something special
It may not seem like it at first, but regular drinking can take a toll on your wallet. Buying alcohol regularly is an expensive endeavor, whether you’re going to a liquor store or dropping tons of dough at a bar. Instead of funneling all your money into this habit, you could start saving up for things that really matter. Whether you’ve dreamed of taking a vacation overseas or you want to go on a shopping spree, that extra bit of financial freedom will help you accomplish this.
Spend more time with loved ones
There are few things as painful as seeing a family member struggle with alcoholism. If you find yourself drinking far too often, you’ll likely start to become isolated from your friends and family. Not only does drinking take up your time, but it takes up your mental capacity. Those who drink excessively are often worried about where they’ll get their next drink, rather than staying in the moment. Instead, forgo the booze and have some fun with your family.
Feel healthier inside and out
Not only can alcohol affect your mind in negative ways, but it also takes a toll on your physical health. For a truly healthy body, a path toward sobriety is the way to go. Alcohol contains empty calories, causing many people to gain a large amount of weight while drinking. Not to mention, intoxicated individuals crave greasy, fatty foods. Once you give up alcohol, you’ll eliminate an unhealthy part of your diet and gain the energy needed to exercise. It’s truly a win-win all around.
