I Quit Wine - how to stop drinking and have a much better life

Episode 038: Doing Big Things Without Alcohol In this episode of I Quit Wine, I'm sharing all about a huge personal milestone—my son's wedding—and how I navigated the entire multi-day celebration completely alcohol-free.Yes, three days of events (pre-wedding, the big day, and post-wedding celebrations), surrounded by champagne toasts and clinking wine glasses—and I didn't drink a drop. And the best part? I had a brilliant time. I danced, I laughed, I connected, and I woke up feeling fresh every morning (unlike some others, bless them!).Here's what I cover in this episode:

In this episode, I'm joined by the lovely Sally German, a coach who shares her inspiring journey of quitting alcohol and how journaling became a powerful part of her recovery and personal growth.Sally's story is incredibly relatable—like so many women, her drinking was woven into her social life, career, and stress management. But after years of questioning her relationship with alcohol, trying to moderate, and experiencing the emotional toll it took, she made the brave decision to quit for good.We also dive deep into one of my favourite tools for sobriety and self-discovery: journaling. If you've ever felt a bit weird writing things down or didn't know where to start, this conversation will give you the nudge you need.✨ What We Talked About:Sally's JourneyFirst drink at 10 or 11—can you believe it?Drinking quickly became the norm in her late teens and twentiesShe tried all the moderation tricks (dry months, training for a marathon) before finally saying goodbye to alcoholIt took around 10 years from her first “maybe I should stop” moment to full sobrietyThe Challenges of QuittingSocietal conditioning and the fear of missing out are realFriends often didn't understand her choice, which made things even tougherSally shares how hard it was to imagine social life or travel without alcohol—but also how freeing it's been since quittingJournaling for Sobriety & GrowthJournaling started as something awkward for Sally… and me too, to be honest!Now it's a daily essential for both of usIt's not just about writing—it's a space for emotional release, pattern spotting, and serious self-awarenessTips for Starting a Journaling PracticeKeep it simple: start with “Right now I feel…” or “Today I'm feeling…”5 minutes is plenty to begin withTry it in the morning with your coffee or at night to wind downPush through the initial discomfort—it gets easier, and the insights are so worth it

In this episode of I Quit Wine, I'm answering some of the biggest questions about quitting alcohol—how hard it really is, what to expect in early sobriety, and whether you can ever “reset” your drinking habits. I'll also share insights from my own journey, what finally worked for me after years of trying, and why addressing the root causes of alcohol dependence is so important.✅ Early sobriety is challenging, but it gets easier with the right support and daily practices.✅ Alcohol cravings aren't just triggered by stress—happy moments can also lead to urges.✅ There's no such thing as “resetting” drinking habits—quitting completely is often necessary.✅ Long-term sobriety isn't just about avoiding alcohol; it's about healing the deeper reasons we drink.

I Quit Wine Podcast - Episode 035Finding Joy Beyond the Glass: Relearning Happiness Without WineEpisode Summary:In this episode, I discuss the challenges of quitting alcohol and discovering true joy in life without wine, particularly for women in midlife and menopause. Many women struggle to imagine a fulfilling life without alcohol, viewing it as their "best friend" and main source of joy. However, breaking free from this dependence opens the door to a richer, more meaningful life—though it takes time, reflection, and support.Key Topics Covered:✔️ The emotional and psychological ties to alcohol and why it feels like a “best friend”✔️ Overcoming the fear of life without alcohol and learning to find joy in new ways✔️ How self-worth, productivity, and busyness can contribute to alcohol dependence✔️ Personal story: A 3-month camper van trip that highlighted lifestyle differences and the importance of stillness✔️ The role of hormones in midlife (decreasing estrogen & oxytocin) and their impact on self-reflection and purpose✔️ The rise in alcohol consumption among Gen X and Boomer women compared to younger generations✔️ The unique challenges midlife women face—caring for aging parents, raising teenagers, and experiencing perimenopause✔️ The importance of self-compassion, curiosity, and patience in exploring life without alcohol✔️ Practical steps for rediscovering joy through non-drinking activities like coloring, walking, and beach visits✔️ The role of support, self-reflection, and addressing subconscious patterns in quitting alcohol✔️ My experience with Root Cause Therapy and how it helped uncover underlying worthiness issuesResources & Support:

In this episode, I explore my relationship to alcohol and how this is playing out in other areas of my life. How you do alcohol is how you do everything is actually excellent news as it will teach you how to have a much better life. I share how a recent detox from sugar has reminded me about dopamine sensitivity and how many of us will react. Join me in the IQW Freedom Formula to learn to exact steps to having a much better life without wine: https://iquitwine.com/iqwff/

Sarah discusses how people often underreport their alcohol consumption, with the common belief that individuals drink at least double what they admit to. She reflects on her experiences as a student nurse seeing patients with severe alcohol-related health issues. Sarah shares how her views have evolved, noting that the focus should be on how alcohol makes someone feel rather than just the quantity consumed. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's personal relationship with alcohol, especially for "gray area drinkers" who may experience negative impacts from relatively moderate consumption.| Sarah encourages the listener to reflect on how their drinking makes them feel, rather than just the amount. She shares examples of women in her programs who struggled with the impacts of even a small amount of alcohol. She invites the listener to explore her "I Quit Wine Freedom Formula" program to address their relationship with alcohol. https://iquitwine.com/iqwff/ Sarah invites the listener to follow her on Instagram, send her a message, and share any insights from listening to her podcast episodes. She emphasizes her approachability and desire to engage with her audience. https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_/

Episode Title: But I Love the Taste of Wine Host: Sarah Leather Episode Summary: In today's episode of I Quit Wine, Sarah dives into a common challenge for people quitting alcohol: “But I love the taste of wine!” Sarah shares her personal story of once loving the taste of wine with certain meals, but realizing that it's not just the taste she was craving. It's the feeling that alcohol provides after those first few glasses, not the taste itself. She explains how our brains have been conditioned to associate certain feelings with the consumption of alcohol, and offers a perspective shift that helps break free from that mindset. Sarah also touches on the role alcohol has played historically in nursing homes and hospitals and how alcohol was used for various purposes in medical settings. She reflects on her own experiences, her changing relationship with alcohol, and how she now feels indifferent or even repulsed by it. Sarah encourages listeners to observe their thoughts about alcohol and the stories they've told themselves, like "I drink for the taste," and gently challenges these beliefs. She shares how emotional sobriety is about shifting perspectives and seeing the truth about what alcohol has taken from your life. Finally, Sarah highlights the importance of building new, healthier habits and mindsets, while encouraging listeners to explore her IQW Freedom Formula for deeper support. Key Takeaways: We often convince ourselves we drink for the taste, but it's really the feeling that follows that we crave. Alcohol doesn't taste good on its own—our associations with it have been built over time. The journey to emotional sobriety involves breaking down long-held beliefs and building new ones that support a healthier, happier life. Sarah shares personal stories, from her teenage drinking years to her now peaceful, alcohol-free life, where the smell of wine no longer tempts her. The I Quit Wine Freedom Formula is a supportive resource for those seeking to quit alcohol. Mentioned in This Episode: I Quit Wine Freedom Formula – A self-paced program to help you transform your relationship with alcohol. Visit iquitwine.com/iqwff for more information. One-on-one coaching sessions are available! Sarah is offering deep-dive coaching to help you create a clear plan for quitting alcohol. Book your session via the link in the show notes here: I have a new offering: 75-minute one-on-one coaching sessions for personalized guidance. It includes the IQW Freedom Formula (if you've already purchased it, you will get a 30-minute follow-up session). You can ⁠see it here⁠: https://bit.ly/IQW75minuteFFbonus Connect with Sarah: Instagram: @iquitwine_sarah Website: iquitwine.com Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review or rating! It helps other people find the podcast and makes a big difference. Sarah would love to hear your thoughts—send her a DM on Instagram to share your story! Podcast Links: I Quit Wine Freedom Formula Book a One-on-One Coaching Session

In this episode of the I Quit Wine podcast I discuss the importance of simplicity in quitting alcohol and introduce a new program for alcohol-free living. Simplicity and constraint can significantly ease the decision-making process when quitting alcohol I have created the "IQW Freedom Formula," a comprehensive 30-day program to help women quit drinking The program offers tools for managing cravings, emotional sobriety, and addressing underlying reasons for drinking I emphasize the ongoing nature of emotional sobriety and the importance of continual self-work Simplicity is one of my top values, along with spaciousness and freedom Constraint concept: fewer choices lead to more ease and simplicity Analogy: Low-frills supermarkets (e.g., Lidl, Aldi) offer less choice, reducing decision fatigue Quitting alcohol eliminates complex decision-making around drinking, reducing mental burden Example: My weekend alone - only one alcohol-free beer consumed, contrasting with past behavior Includes first 3 modules immediately, with others released over time Features a private podcast for deeper, more honest discussions Covers mindset processes, thought management, and creating desired results Priced at a "ridiculous" one-time fee, with potential price increases in the future Tools for managing cravings Strategies for both good and challenging times Information on brain chemistry, nutrition, and environmental factors Naturopathic insights from Sarah's 25 years of practice Guidance on achieving emotional sobriety Techniques for managing the "voice" that encourages drinking Distinction between stopping drinking and achieving emotional sobriety Emphasis on the process nature of recovery - cannot be rushed or fast-tracked Importance of continual self-work and gradual improvement Strategies for managing the ego or "voice" that undermines sobriety efforts Interested listeners can access the IQW Freedom Formula at iQuitWine.com/IQFF Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah_/ for updates and connection Listeners are encouraged to email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com with questions or stories Please leave a review or rating for the I Quit Wine podcast - it will make me so happy!

Sarah reflects on her 59th birthday, contrasting youthful drinking experiences with mature overthinking about alcohol Drinking habits often evolve from social fun to problematic coping mechanisms, leading to overthinking and health issues Sarah is developing the "IQW Freedom Formula" to help women end overthinking drinking and improve their lives Alcohol-free celebrations, like birthdays, are presented as more enjoyable and fulfilling Sarah shares her journey from carefree teenage drinking to problematic adult consumption Initial drinking experiences: relaxation, confidence boost, social connection Evolution to "grey area drinking" in 30s-40s: habit formation, stress relief, emotional regulation Overthinking phase: constant negotiation, guilt, attempts to moderate Liver health concerns increase with age and quantity consumed Hormonal changes (perimenopause, menopause) reduce alcohol tolerance Neurochemical effects worsen in 40s-50s Sleep disruption: difficulty achieving deep sleep, leading to more overthinking Not necessarily about quantity, but mental burden and health effects Can last for years (18 years in Sarah's case) Stopping and starting attempts common Affects quality of life even when consumption is relatively low Aims to end overthinking drinking and improve overall life quality Holistic approach: brain rewiring, nutrition, sleep, exercise, coaching, therapy Includes trauma-informed and somatic practices Daily practices to manage cravings Promises better sleep and reduced morning anxiety Sarah celebrates her 15th alcohol-free birthday Reports increased enjoyment of food, company, and overall experience Highlights ability to drive home safely after celebrations Follow Sarah on Instagram @iquitwine_withsarah_ for updates DM or email Sarah with the word "freedom" for early access to the IQW Freedom Formula Watch for the launch of the IQW Freedom Formula to End Overthinking Your Drinking program

In this episode, I share insights on navigating social events, particularly weddings, without alcohol. Planning ahead is crucial for successfully attending alcohol-free events, especially regarding drink choices and potential social pressures Non-alcoholic options are becoming more prevalent, with alcohol-free beer sales up nearly 20% in Ireland Many people report enjoying events more without alcohol, particularly appreciating the hangover-free mornings Younger generations (18-25) are drinking 25-35% less, indicating a cultural shift towards reduced alcohol consumption I also speak about my recent personal experiences with being alcohol-free at weddings plus: Challenges of socializing without alcohol Importance of non-alcoholic drink options Strategies for navigating alcohol-free events Shifting cultural attitudes towards alcohol Personal reflections on alcohol-free journey Next Steps: Follow me on Instagram: @iquitwine_with_sarah for more content and engagement Check iQuitWine.com/iQWA for additional resources Consider booking single paid deep dive session with me (contact via Instagram DM or email iqwwithSarah@gmail.com) Stay tuned for future podcast episodes on navigating alcohol-free holidays

Welcome back to the show. I have an update (more like pupdate!) & share how to manage when everything feels so freaking hard. Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think! The doors will soon be opening for the upgraded version of the IQW Academy, called IQW Collective. So cool! It will include the 90-day program from IQW Academy plus a private podcast just for your ears and much more You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll let you know as soon as it's ready.

Mary Wall joined IQW Academy soon after it began & is also a brilliant coaching colleague. She shares such an inspiring story about her journey with alcohol and her 'life after wine'. Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think! The doors are currently open for the IQW Academy, you can see the current special offer at IQuitWine.com/iqwa You will also get the brand new course called IQW21 which will give you an incredible boost over 21 days. If you're not sure if a group is the right support you need right now and want to explore working 1:1 together, I'm delighted to be offering 3 mini-sessions this week. In the 30-minute session, we will explore what's the cause of your over-drinking and create a plan for a much better relationship with alcohol. You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll give you the link to book your session.

In this episode of the I Quit Wine podcast I speak about what to drink when you're not drinking alcohol. I know I love a grown-up drink in a grown-up glass. But I also find that at certain times, alcohol-free drinks can leave me wanting more. Take a listen and I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can share a review on your podcast app and tell me what you think! The doors are currently open for the IQW Academy, you can see the current special offer at IQuitWine.com/iqwa You will also get the brand new course called IQW21 which will give you an incredible boost over 21 days. If you're not sure if a group is the right support you need right now and want to explore working 1:1 together, I'm delighted to be offering 3 mini-sessions this week. In the 30-minute session, we will explore what's the cause of your over-drinking and create a plan for a much better relationship with alcohol. You can send me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ and I'll give you the link to book your session.

Hello lovely! I love sharing about all things alcohol freedom & there's one part that rocks my world. That is having daily non-negotiables. Once you stop negotiating with yourself, everything changes. For me, it's deleting the thought 'just one more time' or 'just while I'm in France' from my mind. Because it's never 'just once more'. In this episode, I share with you how to stop the stop/start cycle with daily non-negotiables. Daily non-negotiables are the backbone of the IQW Academy. It's so good & nourishing! 'It's a really lovely group. I've been part of it for a while and love it. I would highly recommend it.' The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month. Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months. ⁠Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount.⁠ https://iquitwine.com/iqwa     I can't wait to support you.   If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

In this episode, I speak about the effect that drinking has on our minds and how you were made for more. I share this amazing quote from The War of Art: “Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance.”― Steven Pressfield If you are ready to overcome the resistance, IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.   ‘Hi Sarah, I want to share my deep gratitude with you. I joined your academy last week out of desperation. I've been stopping & starting drinking for the last 5 years and nothing has worked. I thought that there was something wrong with me. I read all the quit-lit books & listened to lots of podcasts. A few weeks ago I stumbled across your podcast & knew you were the one to help me overcome this problem. Most people don't get it. They think I'm fine & should just keep trying to moderate. But I always knew there was more to life than constantly thinking about when & how much I would drink. You get it. I think it's your mix of personal and professional experience that makes you different from all the others. Your academy feels like home. I was missing the connection you provide. It feels safe to be there and be on this journey with you. The other women all get it too. I love how it doesn't matter how much we drank or how long we've stopped (or still trying to stop for good), your program gives us what we need for our version of success. Thank you.' The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month. Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months. ⁠Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount.⁠ ⁠Join here⁠ at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa     I can't wait to support you.   If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com  

In this episode, I speak with my client Aneta Idczak about her journey to having a much better life after wine. If you're someone who thinks that you don't drink enough for it to be a problem, then you need to hear this story. You don't need to have a 'rock bottom' to stop drinking. It isn't about how much you drink but how it makes you feel. Aneta Idczak is Trauma-informed Somatic Coach and Yoga Teacher, Trainer and Mentor.  She specialises in training other practitioners in trauma-informed somatic approach in their work and business.http://www.anetai.co.uk/ As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!!       You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!).   IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine.   ‘Hi Sarah, I want to share my deep gratitude with you. I joined your academy last week out of desperation. I've been stopping & starting drinking for the last 5 years and nothing has worked. I thought that there was something wrong with me. I read all the quit-lit books & listened to lots of podcasts. A few weeks ago I stumbled across your podcast & knew you were the one to help me overcome this problem. Most people don't get it. They think I'm fine & should just keep trying to moderate. But I always knew there was more to life than constantly thinking about when & how much I would drink. You get it. I think it's your mix of personal and professional experience that makes you different from all the others. Your academy feels like home. I was missing the connection you provide. It feels safe to be there and be on this journey with you. The other women all get it too. I love how it doesn't matter how much we drank or how long we've stopped (or still trying to stop for good), your program gives us what we need for our version of success. Thank you.' The price of IQW Academy is rising on the 1st of next month. Join this 90-day program now & stay for up to 12 months. Join now to enjoy the huge savings discount. Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa     I can't wait to support you.   If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com   If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

In this episode I explore 'Alcohol & Grief- why it's normal to feel sad to stop drinking'. When you stop drinking you can experience a rollercoaster of emotions. Grief is one that stood out for me but for years I felt guilty about this. It's normal to experience grief when a person or pet dies. But letting go of drinking alcohol can create similar emotions. Take a listen to find out why. As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!! You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!). *Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine. Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa I can't wait to support you. If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

Are you ready to honestly explore the love affair you've had with alcohol? Maybe, like so many of us, it's turned into a love/hate relationship. Taking way more than giving. Are you ready for the end of the affair? As I mentioned during this episode, IQW Academy is open. What a loving gift this would be to yourself!! You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!). *Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine. Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount. Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa I can't wait to support you. If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

There's nothing like your own version of Groundhog Day to create all the guilt and shame with alcohol. I used to ask myself 'If I'm so smart, why do I keep doing this?' Not a fun way to live your life. In this episode, I share my own personal GHD and relate it to an escalator in a massive shopping centre. Take a listen and see if you relate. If you're following this podcast, you probably do! As I mentioned once or ten times, IQW Academy is open! You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!). *Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine. Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount. Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa I can't wait to support you. If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

Drumrol, please! IQW Academy is open! You can hop in now and start getting the support, inspiration, motivation & information you need to stop drinking, stay stopped and have a much better relationship with alcohol (& yourself!). *Everything in IQW Academy will be 100% confidential and your stories will never be shared without permission. IQW Academy is a sacred safe place to explore your relationship with wine. Join now to enjoy the 90% OFF Launch Special discount. IQW Academy starts on Monday 13th of February. Join here at the lowest price it will ever be: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa I can't wait to support you. If you have questions, pop me an email at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com If you have a friend who needs this, please share the special link with them: https://iquitwine.com/iqwa

In this episode I speak with my wonderful friend & colleague Lesley Hossner. Lesley shares her story of her past love affair with wine, especially when she was on her work trips around the world. She came on women's coaching retreat that I ran in Portugal 4 years ago and it had a profound impact on her. My brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA) officially starts on February 13 2023. I announced it on a previous podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time. If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQW Academy, please see the special launch offer of 90% off right now! https://bit.ly/IQWAcademy

Welcome to another episode of I Quit Wine. Most of the emails I have the pleasure of receiving speak about the wish to believe that life could be better after wine. Many of the women say that despite feeling so much better without it, they keep going back to it. There's a very simple reason for this, they don't fundamentally BELIEVE that their life is better. I explore this concept and more. I also mentioned my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA). I announced it on the last podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time. If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQW Academy, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

Welcome to another episode of IQW. I don't have a hangover. Have you ever said that? Whilst silently suffering wishing the day away? Or saying things like 'I'm just a bit tired today' and dismissing any thought of a hangover? All the while knowing the truth. It doesn't matter how much you drink, it matters how it makes you feel. Listen in and let me know what you think. I also mentioned my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA). I announced it on the last podcast and am so thrilled to see so many women say they'd like to hear more. I can't wait to start sharing the information in a few day's time. If you need some help navigating your drinking & want to hear more about IQWA, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

What exactly is Grey Area Drinking and is it really a problem? In this episode, I speak about what it is, what the symptoms are and what to do about it. I also made an exciting announcement on the podcast about my brand new program called I Quit Wine Academy (IQWA). If you need some help navigating Grey Area Drinking & want to hear more about IQWA, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com Or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & tell me one thing you'd love to change about your relationship with alcohol.

We all know that there's a price to pay for purchasing alcohol. In this episode, I share some of the science along with some of my own personal experiences of what alcohol actually costs us, especially our health, wealth and happiness. If this resonates, pop along to https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & say hi. Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and share your story with me. It's such a privilege to hear the stories and the inspiration that's being received from this podcast. My heart is overflowing with gratitude.

In this episode, I speak about the 3 things that changed everything with my relationship with alcohol. These are things that help everyone who is questioning whether they need to take a break or make some changes to their drinking. I love hearing your biggest takeaways from each episode, so feel free to DM me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ Life is seriously better without alcohol and I'm so inspired by all of the emails I'm receiving from listeners to this podcast. If you'd like to email me and share what's resonating with you or would like to speak about coaching, you can send me a message at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

In this episode, I talk about how to manage a craving or urge to drink using your mind and also lots of other ways. This skill could make a huge difference to you when you want to take a break or stop drinking altogether. Please share your best ways to self-soothe with me on Instagram, and send me a DM at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com as I love seeing your emails.

Welcome to episode 011 of I Quit Wine. In this episode, I speak about lots of things including grief, puppies and chocolate. But mostly I speak about discovering a great question to ask myself. It's from the book The One Thing and I'd love you to take a listen here and see what comes up for you. I would love to hear about your first domino so feel free to DM me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ Life is seriously better without alcohol and I'm so inspired by all of the emails I'm receiving from listeners to this podcast. If you'd like to email me and share what's resonating with you, you can send me a message at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com And feel free to let me know any alcohol-related topics you'd like me to talk about.

Today I'm talking about what to do when you lose your sobriety mojo. We have primitive brains that crave instant gratification. In this episode, I share what works for me when I start thinking that wine would be a good idea (it never is the solution!). Come & say hi @iquitwine_withsarah https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ Also, I love nothing more than reading your emails. We can store so much shame about drinking and as Brene Brown says, 'shame cannot survive being spoken and met with empathy'. Feel free to email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram. I have something special coming for you soon. In the meantime, be kind to yourself.

Despite years of alcohol-free time and all the knowledge, experience, and professional work, I still had a little niggling voice in my head telling me I was missing out. But like a toxic 'friend', it might be time for a break. If you're over the hangovers and overthinking your drinking, then it's time to write a eulogy for wine. In this episode, I talk about how to say a fond farewell to your 'best friend' for a while and tell your subconscious mind that this is it. It's not forever, there's no need to declare that you'll never drink again. But you know that a break would be a good idea. And how much better things will be on the other side of the bottle. Please share your eulogy with me on Instagram, and send me a DM at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com as I love seeing your emails.

Peri-menopause & menopause are the time of our lives when we finally have some time to ourselves to have a bit of fun. But also a time when our livers start to scream if we drink too much (or anything at all for many women). In this episode, I share some facts from the book The Upgrade by Dr Louann Brizendine. If you need any evidence that wine is not your best friend, you will not be disappointed. If you need some help navigating alcohol in menopause, please email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com Or DM me at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & tell me one thing you'd love to change about your relationship with alcohol.

Are you an all-or-nothing person? I am! In this episode, I dive into what this means & why it is not such a bad thing. I also share how to manage a craving when it starts. If you love this podcast, pop over to Instagram & say hi. Send me a DM & share anything you'd like about your journey to a better life without alcohol. https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

We all know that hangovers don't feel great. But what is alcohol actually doing to our bodies? And what are the benefits of not drinking for a while? In this episode, I share some of the science along with some of my own personal experiences of the upside of not drinking alcohol. If this resonates, pop along to https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ & say hi. Or you can email me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and share your story with me. It's such a privilege to hear the stories and the inspiration that's being received from this podcast. My heart is overflowing with gratitude.

Do you get upset that as soon as you stop overdrinking that you start overeating? I sure did! For me, I wanted to stop drinking and lose some weight- not gain weight. I know that so many people say not to worry about it for the first few months but many of us who have health issues know that piling on the sugar (and the pounds) can have serious effects on our health. Listen in to this episode to hear about the very best tool I know to overcome overconsuming all the things. Make sure you're following me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/ And if this resonates, reach out to me at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com and I will reply to you very soon.

The reason I often share for stopping drinking is that I hate hangovers. Who does? Especially the fuzzy head and lack of clarity, that's the hardest thing. But there's another reason that was even worse than feeling terrible in the mornings. Listen to this episode where I share the real reason I could no longer keep drinking & finally end the stop/start cycle I'd been on forever. I'd love to hear what resonates with you, pop along to my Instagram & let me know: https://www.instagram.com/iquitwine_withsarah/

In this episode, Sarah Louise tells a story of searching for something that was lost (her sister's glasses) and how this relates to her search for a much better life without wine. Sarah works with women who are 'grey area drinkers'. This means they are not alcohol dependent or severely addicted, but they know they sometimes have a glass (or 3) more than they planned to. They are successful in all other areas of their lives and are questioning their relationship with wine. If you'd like some help with your drinking, email Sarah at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

Are you sick & tired of thinking about drinking? In this podcast, Sarah talks about how to end the incessant voice in your head that won't stop thinking about drinking. She also talks about how she recently had a hangover of a different kind. If you'd like to reach out to Sarah you can email her at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com

In this first episode of the I Quit Wine podcast Sarah speaks about her journey with her 'drinking goals' and why moderation is challenging for so many. 'Why can't I moderate?' is a question that so many women ask over & over again. Having 1 or 2 drinks on occasion is a goal held by many, but Sarah explains why this is rarely achievable and what's a much better goal. Email Sarah at iqwwithsarah@gmail.com with any comments or questions or to request a health coaching session.