Wine? Not.
Dear Lil,
I need help finding a nightly fix! In the past, I have really enjoyed having a glass or two of wine each night. However, this nightly habit is a bit expensive and unhealthy on several levels. Weed is another option, but it is also not great for your lungs to smoke every night. I am really looking for a good ‘fix’ to help wind down the night— something that feels like a nice little treat. Bonus points if it is slightly illicit, bonus bonus points if it is low/calorie free and bonus bonus bonus if it is <$2 a serving! HELP!
Many thanks,
Em
LIL: I am vaguely aware of the existence of CBD sodas and other herbal drinks that are supposed to relax you or make your brain feel pleasantly tingly (mostly because they get advertised on comedy podcasts!) So there may be a new, healthier wine substitute out there waiting for you.
In my experience, though, “health food” drinks usually cost a lot more than $2. So my other drink suggestion is much more boring. Instead of two glasses of wine… have one glass of wine. You’ll still get a little relaxation-assist from the alcohol and the ritual. But the calories and dollars are cut in half.
Since your main drawback for weed was the smoking part, how about edibles? Of course, there are tons of low-calorie options that you can buy. But, Emma, I know you prefer DIY in all things except mac n’ cheese (nothing beats Kraft!) you can also make your own. Explore the category of baked goods that I call salad cookies: they usually include oats and replace some of the sugar with fruit or grated carrots.
We have already come to the end of my knowledge on drugs. So I have some suggestions for other little habits to add to your evening that might do the same job wine does.
BUT FIRST: I have to say that Emma specifically told me not to suggest yoga. So if I don’t mention it, it’s because of her preferences and definitely not because I have a personal bias against yoga (due to being very bad at it.)
If wine helps you decompress after a long day: when you get home, change into comfy clothes— but not just anything! Take the time to choose a purposeful (while soft & stretchy) outfit that still makes you feel cute. Hog the mirror and allow yourself to primp as much as you want.
If wine makes you feel a little fancy: instead of pouring a drink, make yourself a personal fruit salad. There’s a method to my madness! This treat is healthy but refreshing and decadent. It would be much more efficient to just eat a whole piece of fruit, but why not elevate the experience?
If wine helps you turn off your brain: the absolute best way to do this is to play one of those dumb phone games where you move the little guys around to get three in a row and then they explode. The only problem is that sometimes I think those games are more addictive than anything else we’ve talked about here. A healthier alternative might be a sudoku puzzle. For bonus points, do it on paper instead of a screen to give your eyes a break.
Whatever fixes you try, never feel bad for taking a little time for yourself or having a treat at the end of the day! You deserve it!
Cheers,
Lil
