What is the Sober Curious - and Why Is Its So Popular?

Many believe the “Sober Curious" movement started in 2018 when Ruby Warrington wrote a book on this topic.  Since then, more people have started embracing the idea of mindful drinking.  So, what is Sober curious? It basically empowers people to push back on this default mode of drinking and question the role alcohol plays in their lives. It’s about challenging societal norms surrounding alcohol consumption and being mindful about when, how, and why one drinks—if one chooses to drink.

In the “Sober Curiosity” movement, people experiment with sobriety for mental and physical health reasons. This also helps break a stigma long associated with sobriety—i.e., you don’t have to be an alcoholic to be sober. If you’re thinking, how does being sober, even for short time, benefit someone? It can improve focus and memory, sleep, energy, and weight management. You may also notice healthier skin and improved mental health, including a feeling of overall wellbeing, relief from depression and anxiety, and increased confidence.
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So, how can you incorporate sober curiosity into your life?

​Set a timeframe for not drinking: this could be two weeks, one month or even a year. Record the positive changes not drinking makes in your daily life.

Find social activities that don’t involve drinking: consider inviting friends for a walk, a trip to the beach or park or restaurant.

If you are in a setting where you’d normally drink, stop, and weigh out your options: maybe have one drink instead of your usual three—or let others know that you are participating in a sobriety challenge for your health.

Find a like-minded group of people: there are many sober social groups that gather online and in-person, they’re not necessarily for recovering addicts. Try a new sober-focused fitness class or meditation. Pick up a musical instrument or learn a new language.

Try non-alcoholic alternatives. The rise in popularity of non-alcoholic beers, spirits and mocktails make it fun to try out new drinks and local spots without alcohol involved.

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