Alcohol

Alcohol impairs concentration and clarity of thought. While I am not in any way moralistically opposed to alcohol or drug use, I feel I must acknowledge the impedance that alcohol usage exerts against mindfulness and clarity of thought.

Intoxication, even when mild, distorts perception. Sometimes, these distortions inspire new takes on reality, otherwise mired in unpleasant routines and depressed moods. However, for every positive hypothesis on the effects of drinking alcohol, there is a score of scientifically proven negative side effects of drinking. The liver, pancreas and brain do not fair well with regular alcohol consumption.

My own experience since giving up routine drinking of alcohol has been fairly clear. If I consume any alcohol now, usually no more than 4 ounces of wine, I feel the negative effects profoundly the following day. I feel cloudy and my nervous system responds haltingly to commands which routinely cause no hesitation in my muscular responses. I find that my mind is more easily assaulted with distractions. Gradually, after twenty-four hours, these effects pass.

A person who seriously wishes to maximize his/her mental ability and general awareness will avoid the regular use of alcohol. The science behind that choice is clear. For me, as a humanist in practice, the maintenance of a clear and present mind is essential in every moment of every day. Therefore, alcohol inhibits my effectiveness in my humanist practice.