5 Alternatives to Drinking Tonight: A Fresh Approach
Episode Overview
Movement interrupts cravings by boosting dopamine naturally. Grounding foods can stabilise blood sugar and reduce cravings. Breaking the habit loop disrupts autopilot drinking behaviour. Connecting with someone can soothe stress and reduce cravings. Doing something that makes you proud can transform your identity.
You don't want the drink. You want relief. You want peace.
Angela Pugh's Addiction Unlimited podcast offers a fresh perspective on tackling cravings without reaching for the bottle. In this episode, Angela shares five practical strategies that can help you feel better without alcohol. She begins by debunking the myth that alcohol is the only way to find relief and introduces tools that align with your brain's natural processes. Movement tops the list as a simple yet effective way to break the craving cycle.
Angela explains how even gentle movement can offer a natural dopamine boost, helping to calm your nervous system. Next, she suggests grounding your body with food to stabilise blood sugar levels, a trick that can curb cravings caused by hunger. The episode also covers breaking the habit loop – swapping out routines can disrupt autopilot drinking habits. Angela encourages connecting with others as a way to regulate emotions, reminding us that even a quick text can provide comfort.
Finally, she highlights the importance of doing something that makes you proud, reinforcing positive self-image and identity. Angela’s approach is both scientific and compassionate, making it easy for anyone to adopt these strategies into their daily life. So, if you're ready to swap out your evening glass of wine for something more rewarding, this episode is a must-listen.