In general, leaning into your friendships is one of the best ways to relax without alcohol. Meaningful human connections “release dopamine and opioids in our brain,” Lembke says. “We are social ...

This article is part of SELF’s second annual Rest Week, an editorial package dedicated to doing less. If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that taking care of yourself, physically and ...

From gentle movement to two-voice journaling, experts share science-backed strategies for calming your nervous system without reaching for a drink.