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Ep.2 Breaking Free from Wine: What Are the Major Challenges?

Apr 16, 2024
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Title: Breaking Free from the Wine Industry and Redefining Normal Drinking

Exposing the Lies About Alcohol and Challenging the Traditional Norms

Introduction:
In the world of alcohol and the wine industry, the lines between what is considered normal drinking and dependency on alcohol can become blurred. In the "Feel It Alcohol Free" podcast, coaches Ruby Williams and Susan Larkin delve into their experiences as former wine lovers turned alcohol freedom coaches. They discuss the major challenges they faced when exploring their own drinking habits and the journey towards breaking free from the normalization of alcohol in their lives.

Challenges Faced in Exploring Drinking Habits:
In the first segment of the podcast, Susan Larkin shares the struggles she faced in feeling like she wasn't normal and constantly beating herself up in an attempt to get back to what she perceived as "normal." The realization that there is no safe level of drinking and the understanding that her brain and body's reaction to an addictive substance was not a personal defect, but a normal response, was a turning point in her journey. This shift in mindset allowed Susan to let go of the need to fit into a societal notion of a "normal drinker" and focus on exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Ruby Williams, on the other hand, speaks about the challenges she faced as a part of the wine industry, where alcohol consumption is normalized and integrated into daily work activities. She felt pressured to drink due to the culture of the industry and struggled to break free from the mindset that everybody drinks. The desire to be a "normal drinker" again led her to question her habits and ultimately led her to the realization that she felt better without alcohol.

Redefining Normal Drinking:
The notion of “normal” drinking is challenged throughout the podcast, as both Susan and Ruby highlight the lack of a clear definition for what is considered normal. They assert that alcohol use disorder exists on a spectrum and emphasize the need to move away from the binary thinking of normal versus alcoholic. By sharing their experiences, they aim to raise awareness about the diverse drinking habits and the impact of alcohol on individuals and relationships.

Creating Awareness Around Drinking Habits:
Both coaches stress the importance of creating awareness around one's relationship with alcohol. They encourage listeners to ask themselves questions about how alcohol makes them feel, the jobs they have given alcohol in their lives, and whether it aligns with living up to their full potential. By fostering this awareness, individuals can begin to evaluate their relationship with alcohol without adopting labels or succumbing to shame or blame.

Taking Steps Towards an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle:
The podcast dives into strategies for taking steps towards an alcohol-free lifestyle. It emphasizes the significance of taking short breaks from drinking to gain insight and create awareness. The coaches share their experiences with transition rituals, such as cold showers and fierce morning routines, which have played vital roles in their alcohol-free journeys. By incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation and self-affirmation, they aim to equip individuals with tools to break free from the habitual use of alcohol and create a positive mindset.

Crowdsourcing Stories and Experiences:
The podcast encourages listeners to share their experiences and practices that make them "feel lit" without alcohol. Ruby and Susan advocate for crowd sourcing ideas and experiences, inviting their audience to engage in a collective conversation about breaking free from wine and redefining "normal drinking."

Conclusion:
The "Feel It Alcohol Free" podcast offers a reflective and insightful exploration of the challenges faced when redefining normal drinking and breaking free from the conventional norms surrounding alcohol consumption. By fostering awareness, redefining societal perceptions of normal drinking, and sharing personal experiences, the coaches strive to create a supportive and inclusive space for individuals seeking to explore an alcohol-free lifestyle. This podcast encourages open conversations and the sharing of diverse experiences, ultimately fostering a community dedicated to breaking free from toxic drinking norms.

 We want to hear from you! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and ask us any questions you have about breaking free from wine or living an alcohol-free lifestyle. Your question could be the highlight of a future episode!

Grab your copy of our FREE WineFree Weekend Guide to help you on your alcohol free journey. https://feellitpodcast.com/Guide
 
 
Websites:
 
Follow Susan: @drinklesswithsusan
Follow Ruby: @rubywilliamscoaching
Join the Feel Lit Alcohol Free Facebook Community