If you’ve stopped drinking and your sleep feels worse instead of better, you’re not alone — and nothing has gone wrong.

In this episode, Abi unpacks why early sobriety often comes with broken sleep, vivid dreams, and early-morning wake-ups, and why this phase is a normal part of recovery, not a sign of failure.

You’ll learn:

• How alcohol sedates rather than restores sleep
• Why REM sleep disruption and rebound affect early sobriety
• The role of cortisol in 3am wake-ups and night-time anxiety

Abi also shares her own experience of sleep struggles after quitting alcohol and offer three gentle ways to support your sleep without pressure: routine, light exposure, and simple wind-down rituals.

If sleep is making you question your relationship with alcohol, this episode will help you understand what’s happening — and remind you to be patient with your body.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

Listener note: This episode includes a short, non-graphic mention of suicide within a broader discussion. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please listen in a way that feels supportive.

In this episode of The Sober Connection, host Abi King engages in a candid conversation with Jeremy Maxwell, a co-owner of a CrossFit gym and a person in recovery from addiction.

Jeremy shares his journey from being a high-functioning addict to navigating the complexities of sobriety, including the impact of early trauma, the challenges of relapse, and the importance of community support. They discuss the role of exercise in mental health, the initiative 'Move the Weight' aimed at fostering community and connection, and redefine what recovery truly means.

The conversation emphasises that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances but also about addressing underlying issues and learning to cope with life's challenges without resorting to old habits.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2

In this episode of The Sober Connection, Abi discusses the transformative journey from coping with sobriety to experiencing genuine joy.

She emphasises the importance of recognising the emotional stages of sobriety, particularly during the hectic festive season, and offers practical steps to intentionally create joy in one's life.

Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Abi illustrates how sobriety can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life.

Get in touch:

Abi

NEW eBook - 30 Days to Freedom - A Gentle Reset

Available here - www.levelupsobrietycoaching.com/30-days-to-freedom-ebook/

Instagram @levelup_sobriety OR @thesoberconnectionpod

Email hello@levelupsobrietycoaching.co.nz

Affiliate links:

Terps & Co. www.drinkterps.co.nz - enter code ABI20 for 20% off storewide

I use Riverside.fm for my podcast editing software. Click the link below to find out more!

https://www.riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_5&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=abi

My podcast episodes are hosted and distributed by Buzzsprout. Click the link below for a $20 Refer a Friend voucher (T&Cs apply)

https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=2404910

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/in-motion
License code: N5GLWPT8QQSRU7D2