Chapter 1: The Unexpected Journey of Sobriety

When I embarked on my journey to sobriety, giving up nicotine and marijuana, I envisioned a smooth path to health. I imagined the weight would effortlessly disappear as I transformed into the healthiest and happiest version of myself. I anticipated some tough days or weeks due to detoxing and withdrawal but expected to be thriving within a month, looking better daily. I thought my calorie deficit would lead to positive changes.

However, reality has proven to be different. Over the past few months, I've encountered various health challenges that have hindered my ability to function normally on many days, if not most. Despite my efforts to address these issues through lifestyle adjustments, supplements, and medical consultations, it took considerable time to uncover the root causes. The frustration and confusion stem from my inability to understand why I felt less healthy.

_"Follow the rain clouds to find the hidden rainbows."_ — Anthony T. Hincks

Photo by Author Amy Sweet

I had assumed that achieving sober health would be straightforward, but the last two months felt filled with uncertainty. It’s far more perplexing than I had anticipated. When I was still smoking, drinking, and using drugs, I attributed any discomfort to one of those substances. Now, when I feel unwell, I genuinely have no idea what the cause might be.

Did you know that excessive water intake can be harmful? I always believed hydration was the solution, but I learned that I needed to incorporate electrolytes into my intake to maintain balance.

I previously thought that eliminating substances was the primary barrier to achieving total health and happiness. While I acknowledged the mental challenges of sobriety, I overlooked the physical adjustments that come after the initial weeks.

By my estimates, I’ve reduced my caloric intake by nearly two thousand calories daily! This figure includes around 1000 calories from alcohol and another 1000 from snacks I consumed while trying to sober up. This doesn’t even factor in regular meals or late-night cravings.

Surprisingly, despite this significant dietary shift, I've actually gained more weight than I lost since becoming sober. Initially, I allowed myself some leeway in my food choices; however, I revised that approach three months ago when I realized I also needed to manage my marijuana habits.

Photo by Author Amy Sweet

I've always understood that our bodies function like interconnected machinery, with each component playing a vital role. Despite this knowledge, I hadn’t emotionally processed its significance fully.

My body hasn't shown the expected changes since I got sober. In some respects, I feel my health has declined despite leading a healthier lifestyle, but I believe this is simply due to my heightened awareness now that I’m no longer numbing my feelings.

I have no intention of abandoning sobriety, yet I find it perplexing that my health doesn't seem to reflect the accomplishment of being sober for over four months.

The Curiosity Within

Getting Curious:

What makes sober health perplexing?

I find sober health puzzling because I expected that being sober, eating better, and staying active would result in visible changes in my body. I desire to see tangible evidence of my lifestyle changes.

Why do I feel this need for visible change?

It appears I seek external validation through my appearance.

What drives this need for validation?

I've realized that much of my validation as a child was linked to my looks.

Why am I still chasing external validation when I know I’m working hard on my health?

Despite knowing I’m making healthier choices, I yearn for the approval that comes from looking good.

What’s the deeper reason for wanting to be seen as healthy and attractive?

This question is challenging for me. While I want to brush it off, the truth is that I associate my worth with my appearance.

Why do I link my value to my looks?

Beyond societal influences, many of my childhood validations revolved around my physical appearance, a pattern that persisted through decades battling eating disorders.

Photo by Johannes Plenio on Unsplash The Epiphany ==========================

I've come to understand the underlying reasons for my desire for validation.

I’m grappling with the need to see results because remnants of my past struggles with anorexia and bulimia linger.

Why do these old behaviors resurface?

With the cessation of substances, I can no longer numb my fears or discomfort.

Why do I feel a need for control during this period?

The recent resignation from my teaching position has left me uncertain about my next steps, leading to an increased desire for control.

How does this relate to my health journey?

I’ve laid out a detailed plan for my health and weight loss goals, yet I realize I'm fixating on numbers rather than my overall well-being. While it’s essential to lose weight for health reasons, I must recognize that health transcends mere numbers.

I tend to focus on the scale because it's measurable, providing a false sense of control amidst uncertainty.

What should I do with this insight?

I need to practice patience with myself and my body. It's crucial to remember that health isn't solely defined by numbers. While I indeed need to shed some weight, I’m committed to embracing my daily healthy choices.

I choose sobriety, healthier eating habits, and listening to my body. I’m setting a positive example for my daughter, and we discuss our commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

It’s ironic that I seek control through a fluctuating scale when I already possess more stability than I realize, demonstrated over the last four months.

I plan to lean into this realization and enjoy my health journey with my daughter, rather than fixating on the scale.

Photo by Author Amy Sweet

Growth can be challenging, but we are capable of overcoming difficulties! Wishing you love, resilience, and the courage to seek support when necessary!

Amy

Chapter 2: The Physical Effects of Sobriety

To gain insight into what happens to your body when you stop drinking, check out the following video.

This video explores the profound physical changes that occur when alcohol is eliminated from your life, detailing both positive transformations and potential challenges.

Next, learn about the impact of alcohol on your body, brain, and overall health through this informative video.

This video provides a comprehensive overview of how alcohol affects various aspects of your health, highlighting the importance of sobriety in promoting well-being.