Being more mindful while drinking can help people who are trying to avoid overindulging during the holiday season. Here are some tips for practicing mindful drinking:

• Savor the Beverage – Take a moment to appreciate the way the drink tastes, how it smells, and how it looks. Use all your senses to notice the color, aroma, mouthfeel, and flavor of your drink.

• Slow Down – Drink slowly to give your body and mind time to register the effects of alcohol. Enjoy each sip and savor the experience rather than rushing through your drink.

• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages including NA beer or wine to stay hydrated and pace yourself. Take a moment to check in with yourself between drinks to see if you really want another one.

• Choose Quality over Quantity – Choose higher-quality drinks and savor them rather than consuming large quantities of lower-quality beverages.

• Mindful Engagement – Focus on the people around you and the holiday event you are engaging in, rather than just focusing on the alcohol. Engage in meaningful conversations and enjoy your company and the activities you have planned.

• Mindful Breathing – Take a few moments to practice deep, mindful breathing before going to a holiday event, or even take a minute in the middle of a party to breathe. This can help you stay centered and aware of your body and emotions.

• Avoid Distractions – When drinking, avoid using your phone. Stay present and fully engaged in the experience of drinking.

After you have been to a holiday event or party, take a few minutes to reflect on your experience. Consider what went well, what could be improved, and how you felt overall. The key to mindful drinking is being intentional about the experience.