For many people, alcohol and the festive season go hand in hand. ‘Tis the season of excess, when normal rules around eating and drinking go completely out the window. Champagne cocktail for breakfast? It would be rude not to.
The Christmas drinking narrative is changing though. These days, increasing numbers are deciding to cut down on their alcohol consumption over the festivities or are choosing to go completely sober.
In this episode of The Irish Times Women’s Podcast, we hear three different perspectives on drinking (or not) at Christmas. Writer and recovery advocate Mary-Kate Harrington talks about her personal experience with alcohol addiction and how she is preparing for her second sober Christmas.
Navigating the festive season without alcohol is something you must get yourself ready for, says Harrington, who suggests having an “accountability buddy” on hand to confide in during “vulnerable moments,” or doing nice things for yourself instead, like going for walks or “jumping in the sea”.
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“You can swap pinot for pilates and have an absolutely wonderful time,” she says. “And you know, coming from the pinot-head that I was, I can’t believe I’m saying that.”
We also hear from podcast producer Suzanne Brennan, who talks about why she’s becoming more mindful of drinking this festive season and discusses what non-alcoholic alternatives are on offer, while presenter Róisín Ingle talks about her decision to give up drinking one year ago and how it’s brought much joy to her life.
You can listen back to this episode in the player above or wherever you get your podcasts.
