Could you drink less? Would you feel better if you did? Curiosity about the concept of mindful drinking, lead me to read, Mindful drinking, How cutting down can change your life, by Rosamund Dean.
I have to admit to being a little apprehensive about reading this book. I realise that I am exposed to alcohol more regularly than most people. And ultimately, I want people to drink – my livelihood depends on it! I may have a distorted take on the subject, but that doesn’t mean that I am a heavy drinker.
Fearing the worst
Would this book just talk about the negatives of alcohol? Would it encourage, not just dry January, but being tee-total? Therefore, would be completely irrelevant to my views on the subject?
Drink better, not more
Well, the book is very well written, and it challenges you to reconsider your drinking behaviours. Surprisingly, it is also heavily aligned with Grape & Nectar’s philosophy of drinking less, but better. It supports our belief that you should look forward to having a decent glass of wine. And furthermore, not to feel guilty when you do.
Of course, there are birthdays, anniversarys, Christmases etc that interfere a little with this mindset. Overall, by cutting down we should be happier and healthier. (Side note – if you want to learn more about wine and health click here.) We are all different and, I suppose, some do not have the control to stop after a couple of glasses. In these cases they may, therefore, prefer to abstain completely.
The restrained approach
In fact, Dean helps you consider a more restrained approach to drinking in a non-judgemental way. I have periods of the year where I feel like I am constantly entertaining or drinking. I start to feel sluggish, less productive and guilty. Waking up to a hangover with a toddler is not fun!
I think the main take home for me is that you don’t need to feel guilty about not drinking. Indeed, you alone have to take ownership of that. This is something I plan to work on in 2020 in my professional life, as well as my personal one.
To get our top tips to help you drink more mindfully, click here.