29. A Habit Loop for an Alcohol Free January

We kicked off the month of January last week by talking about the importance of having balance: A little activity, and a little rest. This week, on Episode #29 of The Habit Thrive Podcast, we are going to focus on the “rest” side of the balancing scales. There are many ways you can rest besides just taking a nap or lounging in your favorite chair. You can rest your eyes by taking a break from screen time. Rest your mind with meditation or some music. Or, like me, rest your liver by participating in Dry January. This is something that I decided to do on the spur of the moment, but it has really given me an opportunity to use Charles Duhigg's Habit Loop of Cue-Routine-Reward that we talked about on Episode #23. In my case, I would have a date night with my husband on the weekend (the Cue) and would often have one or two drinks (the Routine) and enjoy a nice sense of connection and relaxation ( the reward) at the end of a long week.  Once I started swapping my cocktails for mocktails, I noticed that I was sleeping better and waking up feeling more refreshed (the Reward). And I definitely feel proud of myself! Now, will my new habit of "resting my liver" carry over into February when I go on vacation? Maybe. Maybe not. Or maybe I will find a middle ground where having alcohol is an occasional treat instead of a weekly habit. Either way, I’m exploring and finding what’s right for me using the Habit Loop. And that’s what I want you to do, too! Whether you choose to participate in Dry January with me or try something else, just test the waters of some new habits and routines that can bring more rest into your life. Cheers! ;) Lorrie xoxox Loving the show? Let’s connect! Find me: Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” Years Instagram: @Habitguru365 Website: https://lorriemickelson.comLoving the show? Let’s connect! Find me:Facebook: Women's Wellness Community: For women wanting to rock their “Me Now” YearsInstagram: @Habitguru365Website: lorriemickelson.comMemberVault: lorriemickelson.vipmembervault.comHabits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond