We spent the weekend at our cabin in Minnesota, getting things cleaned up and winterized for the freezing temperatures just a few short weeks away.

I happily chose pulling weeds as my project. Truth be told, I have a strange obsession with weeding.

Don't be confused. I do not have a green thumb. I am not a gardener. Just a weed puller.

What might seem like a chore to some people is one of my favorite sources of dopamine and provides instant gratification.

I realized that since giving up alcohol over three years ago, I had discovered many positive alternatives to the dopamine hits I was craving from alcohol.

For instance, spending time in nature and green spaces reduces my stress and enhances my mental clarity.

Gardening activities like weed pulling promote mindfulness, providing a calming and grounding experience.

This gradual, long-lasting dopamine rise from nature starkly contrasts the surge and crash of alcohol consumption.

While alcohol offers temporary euphoria and relaxation, it is often followed by a sharp drop in dopamine levels, leading to anxiety and depression.

Where do you get your dopamine hits?

Here are a few examples of positive alternatives to the artificial high of alcohol:

🏃‍♀️ Any form of exercise – Move your body!

🥾 Hiking – Nature and movement make this a rich source of dopamine and mental health benefits.

🛏️ Simply making your bed – This sense of accomplishment first thing in the morning is a great foundation to start your day.

🎧 Music – Listening to your favorite tunes can trigger a release of dopamine and positively impact your mood.

📝 Creative expression – Writing/Journaling, painting, drawing, crafting – all are positive outlets.

👩‍🌾 Pulling weeds! If you don't have a garden, you can borrow mine.