It’s nearly October and time for a challenge (because 2020 hasn’t been challenging enough!) Go Sober for October is here and waiting for you to take part. This is your opportunity to better your health, while doing something amazing for charity. The campaign was launched by Macmillan Cancer Support to raise money for people with cancer. Give Sober for October a try - sleep better, feel better and save money.
So, what are the health benefits of going Sober for October?
Getting better sleep
You may notice after just one week away from alcohol that you’re sleeping better. When you consume alcohol, your body misses out the crucial rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. With less REM sleep, you’re likely to wake up feeling groggy and unfocused. Good quality sleep helps to boost your immune function and support cardiac health as well as control stress and anxiety. When you get high quality sleep you feel more refreshed during the day, your stress levels are lower and with more energy you’re able to perform better both at work and at the gym.
Better sleep and exercise also enhance creativity, encourage quicker learning, sharpen the memory and improve concentration.
Raising the mood
Once you’ve banished those horrible hangovers, you’ll have the time and energy to fit in a morning workout. Exercise releases the body’s feel-good hormones dopamine and serotonin, which instantly lift your mood. Plus, hitting your personal fitness goals can boost your self-esteem—and there’s no doubting the confidence that comes with it.
Saving money
On top of the mental and physical health benefits and general improved wellbeing, a month without alcohol is good for your wallet too. By giving those alcoholic drinks a miss, just think how much you’ll save! The average UK household spends £868 on alcohol each year[1]. Why not transfer over the money you would have spent on drinks this October to your savings account?
+ No hangovers!
So… are you ready for the challenge? Get ready to raise a glass (of water) and start on Thursday 1st October!
[1] Office of National Statistics Family Spending report (2019)
