Hello,

How are you? I spend a lot of time talking about mindset and the internal work necessary to redefine your relationship to alcohol over the long term.

Yet sometimes, it’s the simple strategies that really help in the moment or when planning an evening out. I’ve had a few clients have “aha” moments recently when we discussed simple strategies that they could use to cut back on alcohol.

Here are some of the tips that are often overlooked but are great ways to cut back.

Half it: It might seem obvious but pouring less alcohol and sipping it at the same pace you would if you were drinking a whole serving. Pouring half glasses can also help trick your mind into thinking that you are drinking more ie 3 half glasses vs 1.5 glasses. The main thing here is to make sure you are keeping track, and set an intention just as you would normally do. If you are in a situation where you may have alcohol poured for you, it’s important to speak up about serving size.

Add water/ice: Adding sparkling water, plain water and/or lots of ice can help dilute alcohol. I remember when I lived in Cambodia and it was common there to put ice cubes in white wine or beer. At first I couldn’t believe it, but then I came to like it. It was refreshing and certainly slowed down the rate I was consuming those drinks. In Mexico, even red wine is served chilled. Fruit juice, iced herbal teas, fruit, sparkling water, and/or ice can be added to make a light and healthier sangria type drink. The key is not to drink MORE of these (because they may go down easier!) and stick to your intended number of drink.

Alternate: But not just with water, which can feel boring and less enticing. Order a delicious mocktail or have flavoured sparkling water on hand. Make mocktails to bring to BBQs or parties. A friend of mine came over for dinner the other night and she brought both kombucha and white wine. The kombucha was so delicious and satisfying that I barely thought about the wine. Try drinking your alternative AT THE SAME time, and try new flavour pairings. Play with it!

If you haven’t yet read Drink Less Be More, there are two whole chapters on strategies.

I’d love to hear which one is your favourite or if you have another that I haven’t mentioned yet.

I hope you have a beautiful weekend,

xoxo