Alcohol is consumed to relax and unwind. Many people drink it to relieve stress but can over indulge. This can lead to addictive behavior and any emotional or environmental trigger can precipitate the urge to have a drink. One drink can become two or four and before you realize you get a drinking problem. Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and can have serious consequences on your mental and physical health. There are certain alternatives to alcohol consumption which are not harmful and can make you relaxed and happy without the hangover.

Alternatives to Drinking for Relaxation

Having a glass of wine can make you feel relaxed for some time but there are many other ways you can enjoy yourself and forget about your worries without drowning them in alcohol. These healthier alternatives can be very helpful if you are feeling stressed. Drinking alcohol to forget about the worries of life is not a wise choice and sooner alcohol becomes a problem instead of the solution. Here are a few things you can try to feel better without the help of booze.

1.      Try Some Meditation

If stress is compelling you to grab a drink, try other effective ways to deal with it. Meditation is an extremely effective way to fight the stress and has been practiced for centuries. You can successfully deal with anxiety, depression and stress with the help of meditation. It helps you to identify the root of the problem and to focus on your inner self. With the help of meditation it is possible to achieve calmness and serenity. Every individual is different and there are numerous meditation techniques to suit different people. A very effective way is to try and focus on something pleasant for a short period of time. You can chant a mantra or think about a beautiful place or memory. Breathe deeply and you will feel an instant calm.

2.      Get Active and Exercise

Exercise is one of the healthiest alternatives to drinking. If you are feeling low, get out of the house and do some exercise. It will keep you fit and the endorphins released during physical activity will definitely improve your mood. You can do anything you enjoy. Swimming, cycling, hitting the gym for a workout or going to a dance class all are equally good options to fight the stress and to beat the blues. Adopting an active lifestyle will also boost your self-esteem and body confidence and you will feel much more relaxed.

3.      Get a New Hobby

If you are tired of your daily routine and have some free time on your hands spend it on some productive and fun activities rather than wasting it on drinking. Learn a new language, try to paint, play an instrument, write something creative or read a good book. If there is something you always wanted to do give it a try. It is never too late to learn something exciting and all these can be really good alternatives to drinking.

4.      Experience Something Exciting

The best high comes from adrenaline rush. To experience this feeling try something adventurous like bungee jumping. Extreme sports like snowboarding, water rafting or sky diving are excellent ways to lift the spirit. You can search for adventure sports groups in your local area and join the fun, this is also a great way to meet new and interesting people and socialize without getting drunk.

5.      Explore the Wonders of Nature

Our surroundings have a powerful effect on our mind. If you go to a peaceful location you will instantly feel calm. If you are tired of the daily chaos of city living, try to explore the wonders of nature. Have a break and go somewhere beautiful. Climb a mountain, go for a hike or check out some beach.

6.      Get on a Roller Coaster Ride

If there is an amusement park near you, go there and get on a roller coaster right. You will feel the thrill and excitement you are craving for. This can be very therapeutic if you are feeling depressed. Try something you have always wanted but never had the time to do. These fun rides are an excellent way to combat stress and depression.

7.      Listen to Music

Music is an excellent way to relieve stress and anxiety. If you are having an urge to drink, instead of opening a bottle of beer, turn on your favorite music. Music can trigger memories and when you listen to something cheerful you will instantly feel better. If you know how to play an instrument you can try it. If you always wanted to learn playing one, go ahead and start learning. You are never too old for anything.

8.      Grab a Good Read

Reading a good book is always a pleasure. One of the great alternatives to drinking is reading. Books can transport you to another world and if you have an active imagination, reading becomes an exciting adventure. You can choose anything you fancy. Grab a book or download it and once you start reading you will feel the joy.

9.      Try Gardening

If you have green fingers, you can try gardening. If there is enough space at your home, well and good; if not, you can use a small box to grow some flowers. Look for some creative ways for a herb patch or a kitchen garden and grow something. When you will see the seeds turning into little plants you will feel satisfied and relaxed. Gardening is time consuming and it will occupy your free time in a very productive way.

10.  Do Some Yoga

Yoga is a powerful tool for relaxation. There are many types of yoga poses and you can start with something you feel comfortable in doing. There is a lot of information available online about various forms of yoga and you can find something to suit you. It will help you to stay calm and collected.