14 days into my one-month challenge. Still at zero drinks! Time for a mid-term write-up:
Thirst:
I haven't craved for a drink even once. Since college, I apparently had simply conditioned myself into drinking 1-2 drinks on most weekdays and 4-5 or more at parties. I never thought quitting was this easy. Over the last two weeks, all the occasions where I would normally have had a couple of drinks were just as much fun being sober. An epic 150 mile hilly bicycle ride is still epic without the reward beer, a party is still a party etc etc. Just say no and drink something alcohol-free, that's all.
Physical & mental health effects:
To be honest, I haven't noticed any differences in sleep quality or quantity, or mental sharpness.
I do find myself recovering exceptionally well from strenuous exercise though, but that might also be due to the high level of general fitness I already had.
I haven't noticed any differences in body composition or skin quality, but I haven't been scrutinizing these parameters very carefully.
I did some literature research and I'm fully convinced of the health benefits of not drinking for my liver, body composition, testosterone levels and recovery from exercise.
I have been feeling a bit stressed and anxious sometimes lately (the 'whirl in the stomach' feeling), but that's more likely due to some weird events in my private life (return from biiiig trip 1.5 mo ago, subsequent relationship breakup, uncertainty about housing situation and doubts about future career / life path). On the upside: previously I'd definitely have soothed this anxiety with 2 beers, but apparently I can manage without booze as well.
And now?
I will definitely complete the remaining 2.5 weeks of this challenge. If I don't, please punch me in the face. There are still lots of parties, dinners and special events to come, but I know I can manage.
On the end date of this challenge (a bar / microbrewery tour with colleagues) I will limit my consumption to 2 or 3 beers and definitly not go on a binge. If I fail, please punch me in the face.
After that, I will continue to abstain from the weekday beers, and on the bar nights/parties/special occasions where I would previously drink 4-5+, I will limit myself to 2.
If I fail, please punch me in the face ;-)