By Monica Olano, Co-Founder and CEO, Cali Sober Mom
If you’ve found yourself Googling “what is a California sober mom,” you’re likely feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of Mommy Wine Culture and considering alternatives. As a mom who has navigated this transition, I want to share my journey and insights to help you feel empowered and confident in reducing your alcohol intake and exploring the California sober lifestyle.
Mommy Wine Culture vs. California Sober
Mommy Wine Culture has ingrained the idea that alcohol is essential for managing the stresses of motherhood, despite its well-documented health risks, such as increased anxiety, depression, and addiction. Embracing a California Sober lifestyle challenges this harmful norm, offering what many find to be a healthier and more sustainable alternative.
Being California Sober involves replacing alcohol with cannabis or hemp products. This shift isn’t just about substance swapping; it’s about finding healthier ways to cope with the stresses of motherhood. Unlike alcohol, which can worsen anxiety and depression, I find that cannabis offers calming effects without those downsides.
A personal story
I faced those downsides after the birth of my twins, which led to severe postpartum depression and anxiety. Initially, I turned to alcohol, but it only worsened my condition. Determined to change, I explored cannabis as an alternative. This shift transformed my life, allowing me to be more present and engaged with my children.
Cannabis offers several benefits over alcohol. It can provide relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep without alcohol’s negative health impacts. My experience with cannabis edibles and beverages has been positive, helping me find balance and well-being.
My journey inspired me to create a podcast and advocate for cannabis reform. Through social media, I connect with other moms who share similar experiences or are curious about the California Sober lifestyle. Many women reach out for advice and support. This community has been a vital part of my journey and it can be for yours, too.
Practical tips for transitioning your lifestyle
- Start slow: If you’re new to cannabis, start with small doses and gradually find what works best for you.
- Choose the right products: There are many options, from edibles to beverages. Experiment to find your preference.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the different strains and their effects. This knowledge will help you make informed choices.
- Join support groups: Connect with others who are also transitioning their lifestyles. They can provide valuable support and advice.
- Be open with friends and family: Have honest conversations about your choice. This can help reduce stigma and garner support.
Final thoughts
The cannabis and hemp beverage industry is still in its early stages, offering a unique opportunity for growth and innovation. Entrepreneurs in this space are taking risks and achieving incredible success. The popularity of California Sober is more significant than many realize, and it’s time to start talking about it openly.
Transitioning to a California sober lifestyle can be a transformative experience, offering a healthier and more sustainable way to cope with life’s challenges. By educating yourself, starting slowly, and connecting with supportive communities, you can confidently reduce your alcohol intake and embrace this new lifestyle.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Many of us are here, navigating the same path, and together, we can redefine what it means to be a mom in today’s world. By exploring healthier alternatives like cannabis and creating supportive communities, we can challenge harmful norms and embrace a more balanced lifestyle. So, we are initiating a new era this year: Hemp Mom Summer! This season is all about embracing the California Sober lifestyle, finding joy in healthier alternatives, and building a supportive community of like-minded moms. This Hemp Mom Summer, let’s celebrate our healthier choices and a new era of mindful motherhood.
About the author
Monica Olano is Co-Founder and CEO of Cali Sober Mom, a cannabis content platform. Monica hosts the Mommy’s New Medicine podcast and advocates for cannabis reform in her home state of Louisiana and beyond. For more of Monica’s insights, you can follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn.