Yes, totally agree. I went for a walk outside this afternoon around the streets and ended up finding a small lake with surrounding trees not too far from my house. It really made a difference being surrounded by nature instead of the buildings.
Listening to some music while walking in nature definitely boosts my self esteem and mood.
Someone posted this on an app I'm using to track my sobriety progress.
"I stopped drinking for 30 days at first and then found it worked
for me so well, i ended up sort of leaving it behind me more so than
quitting."
I really like this. Leaving it behind like a chapter in your life story rather always in the process of quitting. Obviously one has to be mindful everyday e.g. recognizing triggers/urges and building a healthy lifestyle, but it's nice to have a different way of framing it.
I've had similar experiences to you. I found in the end there is no moderation and being sober is the only way forward that I can live happily and healthily.
Welcome Sprout! I was also surprised to see how much I had drank and spent. A little bit depressing thinking of 'what if...' but I try to stop that and think of how much I will save in the future (as well as health and other benefits).
Welcome. You've taken the first step. Congratulations. Pretty sure you meant that figuratively, but if not I'd open that cap back up and pour the devil down the sink The less temptations we have (especially at the start), the better.
I also had restless sleep for the first week. Unusual nightmares that would leave me spooked. My sleep is much better now though. When I was drinking a lot I probably got 5 or 6 hours per night and would wake around 4 or 5 am and not get back to sleep. Now I sleep at least 9 hours of quality sleep. That alone is worth giving it up.
Thanks for sharing guys. Very thought provoking. Yes, I agree with both of you. Social anxiety definitely fueled my drinking. I hate that awkward feeling small talk dries up and people start looking at their feet. By nature I'm introverted, but I do enjoy other peoples company. By drinking it allowed the conversation to flower better (well so I thought).
I'm on day 27 now so I've come across a few social situations without drinking e.g. being in a bar, restaurants etc and have found it OK. The real challenge will come when catching up with old high school friends and family if I decide to go back home around Christmas time. It's at these times I think I'll feel social anxiety the most.
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The less temptations we have (especially at the start), the better. 
