Your Holiday Week Reset: Simple Tips to Stay Grounded, Energized, and Alcohol-Free
Hi Friend,
We’re stepping into a holiday week, a time that can feel equal parts magical, messy, joyful, nostalgic, and… a little overwhelming. Schedules shift. Families gather. Emotions rise. Traditions collide. And in the middle of all of that, you’re trying to prioritize your well-being.
If you’re choosing to drink less or not at all this week, I want you to know this:
You are allowed to have a holiday that feels good to you.
You’re allowed to rest, to say no, to take space, to bring your own beverages, to leave early, to protect your energy, and to expect joy.
Here are a few supportive tips to help you move through the week with confidence, clarity, and a little more ease:
1. Start With Intention (Not Expectation)
Before the week begins, ask yourself:
“How do I want to feel on the other side of this holiday?”
Peaceful? Proud? Rested? Connected?
Let that be your anchor. You don’t need a perfect plan, just a direction.
2. Stock Up on Your Go-To AF Drinks
Bring drinks you actually enjoy. This is not the week to wing it.
Think: sparkling water, festive botanicals, NA wine, cider, teas, or whatever feels celebratory and comforting. This tiny preparation pays off in a big way. My favs are HERE.
3. Create Micro-Moments of Peace
You don’t need long practices.
Try:
✨ A 60-second deep breath in the bathroom
✨ A quick walk around the block
✨ Earbuds + 2 minutes of your favorite calming song (INSIDERS do my 5-minute yoga nidra specific for this)
✨ Sitting in your parked car before going inside (INSIDERS, check in on our app)
These small resets add up.
4. Set Boundaries That Help You Thrive
You don’t have to attend every gathering. You don’t have to stay late.
And you definitely don’t have to give long explanations about why you’re not drinking.
Here’s your script if you need one:
“I’m taking a break from alcohol right now. I feel so much better this way.”
Short. True. Done.
5. Have a Plan for Your “People” Triggers
Everyone has them.
Maybe it’s the aunt who comments on your life or the friend who pushes another round.
Before you see them, decide how you'll respond (with grace and your own self-respect intact).
Pro tip: A quick practice run in your head does wonders.
6. Move Your Body in a Way That Feels Good
This isn’t about burning calories; it’s about energy, emotion, and grounding.
Stretch, walk, or dance in your kitchen; do a 10-minute yoga nidra (I've got some specific ones for walking into situations like this on the INSIDER app); or do anything to reconnect with yourself.
7. Choose Your Joy On Purpose
Joy doesn’t always arrive on its own; sometimes we choose it.
Bake something. Turn on twinkle lights. Call a friend. Play with your kids. Go outside. Let joy be something you actively create this week, not something you wait for.
As Donna Ashworth says:
"Joy does not arrive with a fanfare,
on a red carpet strewn with the flowers of a perfect life. Joy sneaks in as you pour a cup of coffee.
watching the sun hit your favorite tree, just right.
And you usher joy away,
because you are not ready for her."
Most of All… Be Gentle With Yourself
You’re doing something brave.
You’re choosing clarity over autopilot.
You’re choosing presence over pressure.
You’re choosing yourself—and that is worth celebrating.
I’m cheering for you this week and every week.
If you want more support, encouragement, or community, I’m right here. ❤️‍🩹
I am wishing you a grounded, nourishing, and truly joyful holiday week.
Here's the last episode of the Peripeteia Podcast Season 3 with my original podcast producer, Laura Silverman. She is an open heart, a pioneer in the sober space, an icon, and a legend.
With you, always,
XO!
Heather
Sober Coach & Mentor
p.s. Don't forget to RSVP to my FREE Holiday Workshop on December 2nd at 7 pm CST. Can't make it LIVE? No problem, catch the replay.
Responses