Friday 18 April 2014

British Drinking!



I don't know whether it is the British mentality or if it is just considered socially acceptable. But when is it OK to consider a night out binging which risks your health in such a severe way, normal?? I have noticed it is not just young people but people from various ages, slamming down a pint, inviting people on drunken nights out and slurping down tequila as fast as possible. I endlessly hear people say "I need a good night out" or "last night must have been good because I can't remember a thing". Is that not frightening? We place so much importance on this poison (which is what it is). And quickly forget the horrendous effects of this it has on us. It causes liver failure, weight gain, sluggishness, tiredness, dehydration, blood or alcohol poisoning and the list goes on.  I have had countlessly invited people over for a dinner or chats, film night etc, but I feel I have probably become more separated from people because I choose to be sensible. Sensible does not mean boring either. Is it not more boring to rely on an exterior substance to make things fun?
Don't get me wrong I have done my fair share of this, however I feel I have recognised quite early on how detrimental this was to my behaviour, how vulnerable I was and the effects it had on both my physical and mental well-being. Since consciously choosing to drink less everything has improved. I am able to take on more exercise, eat healthier, and I have done so much in one year than some people do in five. I study, meet new people and get to enjoy life without having that heavy, sluggish feeling after.

I am no expert in other cultures. What I can say is visiting various countries in my life I have actively made a note on others behaviours when out. Going to Italy, I have noticed that their attitude on drinking is totally different. They seem to know how to manage their alcohol a lot more and have it in proportion. Lets take a look at how the Italians, are, open, jolly and will often vent their emotions quite easily. The British, I find, are a lot more reserved and still have the 'stiff upper lip' attitude. Just a theory but perhaps alcohol is that door to open up. A way to release certain unwanted thought and feelings. Countless times I have had drunken texts or conversations where I have thought "why didn't you tell me that before?". Are we so unable to have these conversations with a sober mind? I can tell you I am nowhere near perfect and sometimes actively telling people what you think can be challenging as I always feel I could hurt feelings. What I do try and do is reflect on thoughts and emotions and make sense of them, I exercise out frustration and I use my energies in a more suitable way, rather than spending more than I can afford getting absolutely plastered.

I apologise if this seems very opinionated however I have had numerous conversations where people say I'm 'mad' for exercising so much and basically disciplining myself, asking me how I can afford a gym membership. Well I use around one nights worth of drinking money and use it on a whole month of going to exercise classes and ensure I spend out on healthier food.