Navigating Social Situations: Mindful Drinking for Expat Women

Picture this: you’re at an expat gathering, drinks are flowing freely, you know you should probably say no but it feels uncomfortable or rude to do so. Sound familiar? As expat women, we often find ourselves in situations where alcohol is expected and actively encouraged. Even in the world we currently live in, others still find it acceptable to question our choices on alcohol. Perhaps you suffer from the dreaded ‘hangxiety’ or your body just won’t forgive you like it used to and you have been considering cutting back or quitting completely. Let’s dive into the art of mindful drinking – because who says you can’t enjoy a drink or two without sacrificing your well-being?

  • Sip with Awareness: Before you reach for that glass of wine, take a moment to check in with yourself. How are you feeling physically and emotionally? Remember, alcohol can affect both your mind and body, so listen to your intuition and know when it’s time to hold back.
  • Set Boundaries: Just because everyone else is hitting the bottle doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. Stick to 1-2 glasses, rather than continuing for the rest of the evening. Feel empowered to set boundaries around your drinking habits and stick to them, regardless of external pressure. Your well-being is worth prioritizing, no matter what anyone else thinks. 
  • Mocktail Magic: Craving something with a little kick but not keen on the booze? Say hello to the wonderful world of mocktails! Whether it’s a zesty ginger beer, a refreshing cucumber spritzer, or a tangy kombucha, there are plenty of delicious non-alcoholic options to let you enjoy your evening without feeling left out. 
  • Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: One of the best ways to support your body when drinking alcohol? Stay hydrated! Alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water to help prevent dehydration and mitigate the effects of a hangover the next day.
  • Practice the Art of Saying No: Peer pressure can be a real buzzkill, but remember – you always have the power to say no. Whether it’s declining another round of shots or politely passing on the wine with dinner, trust that your choices are valid and worthy of respect.  This may seem a little daunting at first but I encourage you to give it a try and it will become easier. 

So here’s to raising our glasses with intention and embracing the joy of mindful drinking. Cheers to you!