From Chardonnay to Chai: My Sobriety Journey as a Mom

Not long ago, my evenings ended with a glass (or two) of Chardonnay. It felt like my little ritual — a way to relax after a long day of motherhood, chaos, and expat life in India. Wine was my pause button, my reward, my escape. At least, that’s what I told myself.

But somewhere between the endless refills and the heavy mornings, I realized that Chardonnay wasn’t giving me what I was really craving. Instead of calm, I felt foggy. Instead of joy, I felt numb. And instead of connection — with myself, with my family — I felt distance.

Today, my ritual looks very different. It begins not with a cork popping, but with the sound of water boiling and the sweet, spicy scent of cardamom rising from a cup of chai. What started as a desperate decision — to step away from alcohol — has turned into the most life-giving choice I’ve made so far.

My Turning Point

I had known for a long time that I needed to change something, but I had no idea how. Sometimes I managed to stay sober for a few days, even a few weeks. But I always ended up lying in bed, completely drunk, just to start all over again.

I had bought many books about quitting alcohol, but never read them. And normally, I read a lot. Then came the moment when my family was really angry with me. I felt mentally and physically exhausted. Something had to happen — so I finally picked up the book The Sober Diaries by Clare Pooley.

I can’t tell you exactly what part of the book sparked the change. Maybe it was the fact that she’s also a mom, maybe her idea of the “wine witch” (I call the little devil in my head Lucifer), or maybe something else entirely. Whatever it was — it worked.

This week marks exactly half a year since I drank my last glass of Chardonnay. And I must say: it has paid off

Final Thoughts

Choosing chai over Chardonnay has transformed my life in ways I never expected. Sobriety has open doors to new experiences, deeper connections and a healthier lifestyle.

Six months ago I thought I was giving something up — today I know I’ve gained everything that really matters.

"If you’d like to follow along with my journey — the struggles, the joys, and the little moments of expat motherhood — come join me for a cup of chai. See you soon!