Quitting drinking can be a challenge. It can be even more challenging if you are traveling. However, there are some things that you should do ahead of time in order to make sure that you are prepared.
You Will Need to Choose Your Hotel Wisely
The hotel that you choose will make it easier or harder for you to stay sober. You should try to choose a hotel that does not have a bar. A bed and breakfast likely will not have a bar on site. You can also choose a long-term motel.
You Will Need to Take Care of Yourself
You will need to make sure that you maintain your self-care regimen while you are traveling. Try to eat, sleep and do everything else on the same schedule that you are on while you are at home. It is important for you to eat healthy and sleep for 7 to 8 hours per day. Scheduling a spa treatment or massage is another great way to care for yourself.
You Will Need to Have a Recovery Relapse Plan
It is easier to stay sober while you are home because you are close to your friends, family and support groups. You may not have a support group while you are traveling. That is why you need to have a recovery relapse plan while you are traveling. If you have a sponsor, then you will need to tell them that you are traveling. You will also need to let your family members and friends know that you will be traveling.
Identify the things that trigger the urge to drink. Make a plan for avoiding the triggers.
You Will Need to Plan Fun Activities
Spending time in a hotel by yourself can be lonely. Avoiding alcohol should not be the primary focus of your trip. You need to make sure that you have fun and enjoy your trip. There are many alcohol-free activities that you can enjoy while you are on vacation.
You can go on a bike tour or history tour. You can also swim, hike, garden or visit a park. There are many activities that you can do that do not cost a lot of money. Staying busy is one of the keys to avoiding a relapse. It will also prevent you from getting bored. Many people are tempted to drink when they are bored.
You Will Need to Manage Your Stress
Stress is one of the many things that can cause people to want to drink. If you find yourself getting stressed out, then there are many things that you can do in order to eliminate it. Breathing deeply and meditating are some of the ways that you can instantly reduce your stress. You will also need to call your family members and friends back home if you are feeling stressed.
Maintain Your Wellness Routine
A good wellness routine is one of the keys to staying sober for life. You will need to make sure that you get exercise in every day. Most hotels have gyms, so you can hit the gym before or after your day’s activities. You can also take a walk around the city that you are visiting.
You may also want to take a fitness class. Taking a group fitness class will only help you get some exercise in, but you will also be able to meet new people. Journaling is another thing that you may want to include in your personal regimen. It allows you to freely express your feelings. Additionally, you should try to attend a support group or recovery meeting.
