Ten things that are more fun than drinking

Posted on 21 September, 2016

‘Friday afternoon drinks’ is a staple of many Canberrans’ working week.

To be honest, until recently, it’s been the HerCanberra team’s habit — popping the top off a cold beer or a bottle of something fizzy has been a way for us to debrief and unwind together after a hectic week. But times they are a changin’.

You see, one-third of our team is now pregnant, so we’ve had to find other ways to have fun together…and you know, we’re actually really enjoying finding alcohol-free ways to support our expectant mums (even when we’re not together).

And it seems that we’re not the only ones. The newly launched Pregnant Pause campaign is encouraging Canberrans to take a pause from alcohol in support of their pregnant loved ones.

So as a nod towards all those mums-to-be here are 10 things that we’ve discovered are more fun than drinking, with some help from HerCanberra writers who have discovered it for themselves.

10 THINGS THAT ARE MORE FUN THAN DRINKING

Getting creative

Forget checking your social feed while absently sipping your Chardy — you need to be in the zone to create something amazing. Making time for a hobby is awesome for your mental health and a great way to truly engage with your friends.

“Whether it is knitting, sewing, baking, whatever. Creating something is way more fun than drinking” – Amanda

Party on your couch

So you’re not drinking alcohol, but sometimes a good Netflix session is all you need (chill optional).

“I have SO MUCH fun watching Netflix at home and making homemade pizzas. I think I’ve turned into a hermit but I LOVE it.” – Ashleigh

Unexpected adventures

Sometimes things are best experienced alcohol-free. Round up your friends and do something out of the ordinary.

“We went on a ghost tour a few months ago which was really good fun. I also took my niece and nephew on a stargazing event a few weeks ago which was very cool!” – Martina

Grown up party games

Forget Snakes and Ladders, there are some great ‘grown up’ party games around at the moment – be warned though, some of these are pretty out there.

“Cards Against Humanity! It gets pretty raucous and you forget that you’re not even drinking!” – Kate

Dollar dollar bills

“If you’re not drinking because you’re expecting, use the money you would usually spend on a big night out (or a couple of nights, depending on how much you drink) and take yourselves for a massage or save up for a babymoon!” – Bronwen

All of the giggles without the hangover

Sometimes all the fun you need is just your Smartphone.

“Creating memories with friends using hilarious Snapchat filters. They make you look pretty ridiculous anyway so you don’t need to involve alcohol at all!” – Belinda

Online shopping

This one is a no-brainer. If you’ve ever had a regrettable online spree when you’re drinking, you know exactly what we’re talking about.

“You make so many better choices shopping online when you’re not drinking and you’ll have more money to spend!” – Laura

Fresh air feels good

While you are embracing the health benefits of a complete break from alcohol, why not take it further and increase your exercise levels. A gentle walk costs nothing, clears the head and gets the blood pumping just the right amount.

“I am far less likely to want a drink if I am feeling virtuous and relaxed from some exercise.” – Emma

Get absorbed by the big screen

Long before the premium lounge opened, people went to movies to see the movie with the simple pleasure of a choc top and box of popcorn.

Blockbusters require full concentration in any event.

Who says you can’t go out?

The best thing about not drinking? All the calories you’ll save.

“When I gave up grog for three months I actually really enjoyed going out with friends for a drink and not feeling bad to have bar food. Like as a treat – I felt like I could get through the diet by giving myself the occasional hot dog and knowing it wasn’t compounded by the four beers I also usually had with it” – Jose

Things are always better with a buddy

Not drinking is sometimes a personal choice but other times it’s one you make for others, and a supportive community can make all the difference.

“My husband didn’t drink much throughout our first pregnancy but would still have the occasional night out with the boys or a wine when we were at dinner with friends and family. He has committed that if/when we have another child he will join me and he won’t drink at all.” – Bronwen

Why not be a hero and take zero? Pregnant Pause encourages Canberrans to make a pledge to take a break from alcohol during their own pregnancy or the pregnancy of a loved one. And by taking up the challenge and joining the Pregnant Pause community, you’ll gain access to great offers plus go in the draw to win prizes. So if you’re expecting, or know a mum-to-be, why not sign up, wine down, and win!

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