Yet another funny cultural difference between Ann and I cropped up while planning this video. It seems the word ‘teetotal’ isn’t as commonly used in the States, so ideas of ‘tea totalitarianism’ floated around Ann’s head. Like, you give up alcohol and start dictating an exclusively tea-fuelled lifestyle.

Which is actually kinda close to the truth for me.

Throughout my university years, plus a good chunk of my twenties, alcohol was my best friend. Or so I thought. It allowed me to loosen up in a social situation and ‘bond’ with my drinking buddies. Because otherwise I was, well, lost. I’ve always been an introvert, and alcohol gave me Dutch courage, a loose tongue, and a sense of belonging.

What’s more, whenever I went out, alcohol was a given. You couldn’t socialise without it. And if you did, you were possibly… a Christian.

But then there was the morning after. The pounding head, spinning room, and an uncontrollable desire to get a fry up. And most of all, that sinking feeling as I wondered what the hell had happened the night before. I’ve been in more dangerous situations due to alcohol than I’d like to admit, and there came a time when I realised that I was shooting myself in the foot if I wanted to grow into a better version of me.

Do you relate?

If so, this week’s video will help.

The following tips were essential in my quest to up-watt my life and let binge drinking go. I’m grateful to be out of the woods today, thanks to a rock solid guardian angel and learning to like myself enough to let a better version of me shine through.

Ann, on the other hand, has never touched a drop, and she is one of the most vibrant people I know when it comes to socialising and relating to others. So it just goes to show that you don’t need alcohol to have fun, nor does being ‘tea’-total turn you into a social misfit.

Please excuse the interesting wall ‘feature’ behind us – one of the joys of living in a 19th century Parisian building!

Did you enjoy this video? If so, please like and subscribe on YouTube! We release inspiring and practical videos on the topic of holistic health every Friday.

And if there’s anyone in your life who needs a little nudge to embody their best self, then do share this video with them.

Sending love and a stiff matcha latte,

P.S. We’re excited about this veggie potluck tomorrow, hosted by the French Vegetarian Society. It’s not too late to sign up, so click on the link and we’ll see you there! We’ll be sharing our yum recipe for Moringa energy bars.