Create

So, you've decided not to drink. Maybe it’s for the night, maybe a month, maybe forever; the point is you're not drinking. Suddenly, you have a LOT of time and a LOT of un-numbed emotions pouring out like a fountain. So, how do you stop yourself from drowning in them? Create. Is being creative going to erase your anxiety? Is it going to save you from yourself? Is it going to be a cure-all and the reason you get sober? Honestly, probably not, but it is going to support a more positive and genuinely happier outlook on how you spend your time sans alcohol. Here are three benefits of being creative in sobriety: Endorphin Increase: Engaging in creative activities boosts endorphins, which are the body’s “feel-good” chemicals. Especially in recovery, this is going to be a key component of a more positive outlook and can help balance out feelings of negativity that may pop up. Reduces Stress: Sobriety can be stressful! Anxiety can create a false narrative that everyone is noticing you, or you need to explain yourself. Getting creative before a sober event can shift your mind to relax and focus on something enjoyable, making it less likely to absorb any negativity in the room and providing a sense of calm and well-being. oosts Brain Function: Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities stimulates the brain. When your brain is stimulated, it improves cognitive function (which may have deteriorated after years of binge drinking) and increases neuroplasticity. This can lead to improved memory and increased problem- solving skills.

Sobriety is tough, and creativity is such an important part of the coping process. Not only to cope with past trauma but also to be an aid for cravings. I use it to help fight against boredom that is bound to arise as I navigate not drinking through social or work events. Your source of creativity is also a practice of releasing negative and hard emotions you may not have known how to express otherwise. Often, creativity is bonded to a child-like state that releases expectations, regrets, and simply lets you be for even a few moments. Creativity is art, but in sobriety, it’s a necessity. Here are some examples: Paint a picture. Plan a trip. Write a story. Journal. Write a poem. Take a photo. Style an outfit. Start a social media account. Create a collage. Start a new exercise routine. Write a song. Join a book club. Start a podcast. Plan a themed party. Try a new recipe. Invent a new mocktail. Write a letter to your ex. Learn a new language. Make a calendar to track your sobriety. My advice? Just start. One word, one brush stroke, one picture, one page. You may not be the best, but I swear the peace that you feel after is immaculate. You will be able to let go of hard emotions and feel good about how you used your time. And hey, what if someone likes your art, you connect and make friends, and get to share with others who may be struggling with alcohol abuse. Connect with me and let me know in what other ways creativity played a role in your sobriety! XoXo