The holiday season is a time for connection, celebration, and cheer. Often, however, the constant presence of alcohol, combined with media warnings about its harmful effects, can make enjoying a festive drink feel like a health crime.
It’s crucial to remember that for most healthy adults, alcohol in moderation is not the health hazard the media sometimes makes it out to be. The goal doesn’t’ need to be abstinence unless medically necessary, but rather mindful consumption. By equipping yourself with a plan and setting smart boundaries, you can fully participate in the festive spirit without compromising your well-being or waking up with regret. The key to a happy, healthy holiday season is controlling the consumption, not letting the consumption control you.
8 Simple Rules to Control Your Drinking During the Festive Season
To keep your holiday spirits high and your consumption in check, follow these simple guidelines:
Plan Before You Pour
Make a decision about what you will be drinking before you go out. Whether you commit to two drinks, or only drinking a specific type of beverage, having a plan in place makes it significantly easier not to get carried away once the party atmosphere takes hold.
Start with Hydration
When you arrive at a function or restaurant, ask for water first (make it sparkling for variation). This ensures you’re properly hydrated and delays your first alcoholic drink, giving you a buffer to ease into the event.
Choose Wisely – Avoid the Topping-Up Trap
Make a wise decision about WHAT you will be drinking. Sometimes it is better to choose a spirit with a ‘free’ cooldrink (e.g., vodka and coke light or whiskey and water) instead of wine. If bottles of wine are being ordered, your glass will be constantly topped up, making you easily lose track of how much you are drinking. Opting for a measured drink allows you to better monitor your intake.
Dilute and Conquer
If you do want to drink wine, ‘dilute’ it with sparkling or soda water, ice cubes, or sprite zero. You can also order your wine by the glass rather than ordering a bottle – use the excuse that you feel like trying a different wine. Similarly, with beer or cider, rather have a shandy. Diluting your drink allows you to enjoy the flavour for longer while reducing your overall alcohol consumption.
Prioritize Socializing
Get into the mindset that you are going out to socialize with your friends, not to get drunk! You do not need alcohol to have a good time. Focus on the conversation, the company, and the fun.
Be Accountable to Tomorrow
Have an event planned for the following day. Book a session with your trainer at the gym or organize a run with friends. Knowing you have a commitment will make you want to drink less, as tackling these activities without a hangover is so much more pleasant.
Use the 'Driver' Strategy
The ultimate fail-safe: Be the designated driver! This role provides a clear, non-negotiable reason to stick to non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring a safe and responsible end to the evening for everyone.
Cheers to a Mindful Holiday
The festive season should be about making joyful memories, not about managing guilt or battling hangovers. By implementing these simple, strategic guidelines, you move from passive consumption to active control. This holiday, raise a glass – whether it's diluted wine or sparkling water – to being present, social, and healthy. Enjoy the season responsibly, and ensure your celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons.
