Chapter 1: The Transition to Sobriety

Life after achieving sobriety is not merely about abstaining from alcohol; it represents a significant part of living fully and authentically. For many who have struggled with addiction for an extended period, the journey can feel all-consuming. Once the battle is won and the bottle is put down, the question often arises: what happens next?

There exists a genuine risk of relapse during this transitional phase. If you do not fill your time previously spent drinking with equally enjoyable, if not more fulfilling, activities, you may find yourself longing for the past. The absence of hangovers is a good start, but it’s essential to replace those drinking hours with experiences that enrich your life.

We should strive to craft moments that are as meaningful and fulfilling as those spent indulging in alcohol. The goal is to appreciate the simpler joys in life and preserve those memories as pure as the nostalgic recollections of our youth. Despite not having an entirely happy childhood, I cherish certain moments that bring me joy. When those moments are intertwined with substances like wine, their essence can feel compromised. They remain impactful but lose some of their brilliance.

In recovery, our mission is to rediscover that brilliance of life, to recapture the innocent wonder that greets each day as a potential adventure. With the inclusion of “adult” pleasures, life can become more balanced, often without us even realizing it.

However, therein lies a challenge. As we become accustomed to the mild euphoria of being slightly intoxicated, we may mistakenly believe that we need more to feel satisfied. The truth is that often, less is indeed more, and the idea that more is never enough can be misleading.

Creating new, powerful memories is crucial for personal growth and for forging stronger neural connections. It's important to recognize that certain triggers may arise unexpectedly, reminding us of the past. Setting aside dedicated time to cultivate joyful memories can be beneficial in reshaping our minds. Personally, during periods of heavy drinking, I found myself unable to engage with music or revisit photographs, as the memories were too painful. Nevertheless, I never stopped reading or writing.

Today, I can embrace those activities without the guilt, shame, or sorrow that once overwhelmed me. The fear of missing out stemmed from the realization that I was neglecting the life I desired. I often struggled to accept that I deserved that life. Now, however, I am gradually moving towards it. This progress hinges on my ability to remain present and engaged in the current moment.

The same tools we utilized to address our addiction can be instrumental in reconstructing our lives positively and joyfully. Hopefully, in the process of untangling our habits and understanding ourselves better, we have unearthed what truly makes us happy. This happiness should not remain an elusive dream on the horizon but should be recognized and embraced in the present.

Chapter 2: Tools for Creating Lasting Memories

In this insightful video titled "When will my HEALTH IMPROVE after GETTING SOBER??? - (Episode 180)," we explore the transformative journey of recovery and what to expect in terms of health improvement after giving up alcohol.

Chapter 3: Overcoming Relapse and Building a New Life

The second video, "What To Do After a Relapse: 5 Steps to Help You Get Back on Track and Sober," provides practical steps to help individuals regain their footing after a setback, offering hope and guidance for a brighter future.

Taken from my book:

New Dawn: A Memoir of Alcohol Recovery: A Proven Way To Stop Drinking Alcohol Easily New Dawn: A Memoir of Alcohol Recovery: A Proven Way To Stop Drinking Alcohol Easily eBook : Vallis, Sabrina…

www.amazon.co.uk

Sabrina Vallis 2023