Do you find yourself drinking more alcohol than you had initially intended? Do you associate alcohol with normal activities like eating dinner or socializing with friends? Do you ever notice feelings of anxiety, shame, or guilt after a night of unexpected heavy drinking? Do you find yourself reaching for a drink as a way of relieving stress? If you do, you’re not alone! Nowadays, it may seem like alcohol is one of the few (and quickest) sources of pleasure, distraction, or relief from the daily stressors of life. However, you might find that your relationship with alcohol might be getting in the way of your mental health and well being.

Alcohol consumption has become so normalized in our culture and society. Having a champagne toast, going out for happy hour, and new trends like “wine mom culture”, are all examples of how ingrained and normalized consuming alcohol has become. However, when we have these cultural norms, we stop asking questions about what’s actually going on below the surface. These norms make it easier for us to mindlessly reach for a drink and create the illusion that a life without alcohol, or with moderate alcohol consumption, is unattainable or even joyless.

If you find yourself questioning or concerned about your relationship with alcohol and anticipate that this holiday season might be stressful or challenging for you, this workshop on mindful drinking is for you! Mindful drinking represents a cultural counter-movement to excessive drinking. It is a new concept that aims to apply mindful approaches to consuming alcohol as opposed to total restriction. If you are looking to create a healthier relationship with alcohol, but don’t feel like completely giving up drinking, this workshop will set you up with the education, tools, and skills to help you achieve a more balanced relationship with alcohol and improve your mental health and wellness in the process.

Please note, this workshop is not suitable for individuals who have alcohol use disorder or who use alcohol as a coping mechanism for mental health issues. For those of you who feel like you may need a little more support regarding alcohol use, please feel free to email me at alexandra@exhaletherapy.ca. Please know that you are not alone in your experience, you are doing the best you can, and that I am here to support you along your journey.

Alexandra Duz will be running two workshops on November 22nd, one in-person and one virtual. She will provide individuals with the tools to incorporate mindful drinking around the holidays and in their everyday lives.

Entry will be $25 per person and all proceeds will be donated to the PAY IN KINDNESS PROGRAM, providing free therapy for those in need.

Non-perishable items will be accepted and donated as well.

Please register as spots are limited.

Virtual Registration Link - https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/intro-to-mindful-drinking-virtual-workshop-tickets-128884014557