The holiday season can be a joyful yet challenging time for those of us in recovery. Gathering during this time often involves situations where alcohol or other substances are present, which can be hard and test our resolve to maintain our sobriety. However, with mindful preparation beforehand and self-awareness, you can navigate the holidays successfully while staying true to your sobriety. Here are strategies to help you thrive during this season.

Plan Ahead

Preparation is essential to safeguard your sobriety. Identify potential triggers at events, such as alcohol-focused gatherings or certain social interactions. Create a plan to manage these situations, such as bringing a sober companion, having a non-alcoholic drink in hand, practicing responses to decline offers of substances, and have an escape plan if needed. Attending a support meeting before or after gatherings can also reinforce your resolve​ to maintain your recovery.

Set Boundaries

It’s perfectly okay to say "no" to invitations or activities that could jeopardize your sobriety. Prioritize events and relationships that align with your recovery goals. By setting clear boundaries, you protect your peace and emotional well-being. This might mean politely declining offers of alcohol or excusing yourself from environments where you feel uncomfortable​. Have support in place to help you practice setting boundaries can be useful during the holiday season.

Create New Traditions

Holidays don’t have to revolve around substances. Shift your focus to creating sober-friendly traditions that bring joy and meaning to the season. This might include hosting alcohol-free celebrations, volunteering, or engaging in hobbies like baking, crafting, or outdoor activities. These traditions can enrich your holiday experience while reinforcing your recovery lifestyle​​ in ways that might be unexpected.

Practice Self Care

The holiday season often comes with added stress, which can be overwhelming. Prioritize self-care to stay grounded—this includes getting enough rest, eating nutritious meals, and making time for relaxation. Practices like mindfulness, yoga, or journaling can help you manage stress and maintain a positive mindset. Self-care not only supports sobriety but also enhances your overall well-being​. Scheduling an energy healing session can also be very useful in preserving your peace.

Lean of Your Support Network

Stay connected to your recovery community during the holidays. Regular meetings, check-ins with your sponsor/coach/therapist/counselor, or joining online support groups can help you stay accountable and supported. Having a trusted friend or family member as your sober buddy during events can also provide reassurance and encouragement​.

Stay Grateful

Gratitude is a powerful tool in recovery. Reflecting on the progress you’ve made and the positive changes sobriety has brought to your life is very assuring. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you focus on abundance rather than what you feeling like you’re missing out on something (ie. FOMO). This mindset shift fosters resilience and helps you navigate emotional triggers more effectively, which help you keep the gift of recovery one more day.

Remember Your "Why"

When faced with temptation, revisit your reasons for choosing sobriety. Reflect on the benefits of your recovery journey and how far you’ve come up to this point. Reconnecting with your motivations can provide the strength needed to push through challenging moments. Sharing your why with a supportive person in recovery can also help to reinforce that you’ve made a good choice for yourself.

The holiday season doesn’t have to threaten your recovery. With preparation, support, and self-compassion, you can embrace the season while staying true to your recovery. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a destination—approach each moment with patience and grace.

If you need additional support – consider a healing or recovery coaching session with me. Schedule your free discovery call today to learn more!

Resources:

https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/articles/tips-for-enjoying-sober-holidays

https://news.web.baylor.edu/news/story/2023/staying-sober-and-path-recovery-during-holidays

https://www.wdsu.com/article/stay-sober-jolly-holiday-season-expert-tips/63192186

https://catholiccharitiesofmadison.org/5-door-recovery/staying-sober-over-the-holidays/

Tanya D. is a Usui/Holy Fire® III Karuna Reiki® Master, Pranic Healer, Meditation Instructor, Holistic Recovery Coach and SHE RECOVERS® Coach. Find her @thepeacewecrave on Facebook/Instagram and at www.thepeacewecrave.com for all things recovery, energy, meditation, healing, and peace. Contact her at tanyad@thepeacewecrave.com.