The Lithuanian Health Union (LSS – Lietuvos sveikuolių sąjunga) launched the “Celebrations without Alcohol” challenge for the first time, encouraging everyone to avoid intoxicants during the winter holiday period from December 25th to January 7th. The goal is to start a new, sober phase of life, discovering more enjoyable and meaningful activities.
The challenge’s sole condition is to abstain from alcohol during the winter holidays (December 25th to January 7th). Milda Šimkutė (17 years old), a volunteer at LSS, hopes this initiative will lead people to reconsider how holidays are celebrated and the lessons children learn from them. It’s a chance to examine relationships with loved ones and friends and see if genuine communication is possible without alcohol.
Simonas Dailidė, president of LSS and sober for over 13 years, believes overcoming this two-week challenge is a great Christmas gift to oneself. He highlights that living alcohol-free for a year is more challenging, as social events often involve drinking. He encourages people to embrace a healthier, more interesting life stage.
Arminas Mockevičius, LSS vice president and sober for 10 years, shares his experiences of alcohol-free celebrations, noting a positive impact on family and friends. He emphasizes the richer experience of sober festivities.
One participant notes the damaging legacy of Russian occupation on Lithuanian drinking habits. Another, Eglė Kislovski, speaks on the importance of setting a positive example for children and finding joy in a life without alcohol. Milda mentions personal strategies like yoga, meditation, and nature walks for coping with life’s challenges.
Martyna Bareikaitė (16 years old), another coordinator, encourages everyone, from youth to seniors, to join the challenge. She has never tried alcohol and feels she hasn’t missed anything significant.
The Facebook group “30 Day Challenge” will support participants with inspiring stories, experiences, and alternative, fulfilling ways to celebrate without alcohol.
Find more from SVEIKUOLIAI.LT (Lithuania, December 2023)
Alcohol Awareness 