I did some research to see if there was actual scientific data to back up why when those first nice days of Spring hit, your body want to bask in the sun, cold drink in hand.  I didn’t find anything specific but know there is something to it.

Today was the first day it hit 70 degrees this year. This day in Wisconsin is like a statewide holiday celebrated by drinking beer in your driveway with your neighbors. I think every state or area has days like these. The quintessential drinking days.

The sun was shining, my husband was grilling, the neighbors were out after hibernating all winter, the kids were playing. It was late February perfection. AND I WAS MISERABLE.

When days like this hit, my brain still hasn’t unwired itself from expecting a cold beer or crisp glass of white wine. It craved it yesterday like it hasn’t craved alcohol in a while and in that moment, I just wanted to be like every other neighbor, beer in hand, not on the verge of tears because I couldn’t partake.

I tried to moderate for so long because I wanted to be able to hold onto moments like these. I wanted to say yes when I was offered a normal beer from someone else’s fridge and not have to run home to get an Nonalcoholic option.

In that same moment my brain also knew that saying yes to that one beer wouldn’t be just saying yes to ONE beer. I know where it leads, and I know that I’ve put in too much work to go back there. So, I went home, grabbed that N/A and had a good night anyway.

So, this is your reminder, especially on those days that your brain is conditioned to reach for that drink, that you might have to get through a few ‘first 70-degree days in WI’ type days for your brain to catch up. It takes more than a day to undo decades of drinking and I think my brain defaulted back to the autopilot it once knew. This is also a reminder to me that just because it’s getting nice out, doesn’t mean you have to drink.

Tips to get through these days

1. Play the tape forward – We say this all the time, but that’s because it works. Say to yourself, “If I say yes to this drink now, what will tomorrow look like?” In your head, go through how this scenario will play out, how it will end. This, number one, interrupts your craving thought and number two, is a reminder to your brain of what can happen.
2. Have some Non-alcoholic options at the ready – For me, this got me out of so many awkward situations. I would carry around my beverage of choice in a koozy with me and 9/10 times, this would deter people from even asking if I wanted something. I’ve come to learn that no one cares what’s in your glass as long as you have something. I’ve listed some great options in the section below.
3. Remind yourself that a craving will only last about 15-20 minutes. – I know this is easier said than done, but the craving will subside, and you will feel so much better coming out on the other side not having given in. Excuse yourself if you need to, go for a walk. Heck, go have a pity party in the bathroom. Get through it and know you are building your sober muscle in the process.
4. Repeat after me: “Drinking is not an option” – Plain and simple. take it out of the equation. Don’t try and say I will just have one, don’t justify, don’t take the first sip. We’ve seen it play out before. there is a reason you are on this journey. Drinking is not an option.

Non-Alcoholic Options I am currently loving:

Gruvi – there is never not one of these in my fridge. I like both the Bubbly Rose (click to purchase) and the Dry Secco (click to purchase)

Busty Lush – Great flavor. Woman Owned. Zero added sugar. And super cute cans. Get the variety pack here

Mocktails – Great replacements for all those drinks I used to live for in the summer. Get the variety pack here

Kul Mocks – One of the first brands I ever tried and still one of my favorites. Get the variety pack here