Traveling can be stressful, and airports are full of potential triggers for the newly sober. You may have used flying as an opportunity to drink in the past, and it can be hard to determine how to spend the money and time you used to hand over at the bar. Just as with any other aspect of travel, your chances of things going smoothly are greater if you plan ahead. There are several tools to pack in your carry-on that can help ease your transition into sober travel, and even make it an enjoyable experience.
Plan Ahead
While traveling sober, it is important to plan for beverages. Water is always an option, but it can be comforting and pleasurable to sip on something a little more interesting when you would once have a cocktail. Start collecting different varietals of teas and keep them with you at all times. Different teas can provide you with a pick-me-up when you need it, or help you relax when you are feeling anxious. You should also prepare for travel by curating a few playlists for your trip, creating upbeat soundtracks for spending time in the airport and calming playlists for falling asleep on the plane. Music can help you tune out your surroundings and prevent intrusive triggers from popping up unexpectedly.
Be Ready to Manage Fear and Discomfort
Because travel is often fraught with stress and anxiety, as well as common fears of flying, it can be helpful to turn to a higher power. This might mean praying or surrendering yourself to the universe, but a tangible item to focus on can help you find your center. Even if you aren’t particularly religious, carrying a cross or prayer beads in your pocket during travel can give you something tactile to hold and manipulate when you are anxious, and if you choose to pray it can help you direct your energy.
Traveling is one of many aspects of life that require adjustments in sobriety, but will ultimately lead to better experiences without the booze. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.