ENTERTAINMENT

FX’s Shōgun: an exploration of Seppuku, Honor, and Mental Health

FX’s Shōgun, a retelling of James Clavell’s 1975 novel, is not just a historical epic—it is a profound exploration of honor, death, and mental health. At the heart of the series is the depiction of seppuku (ritual suicide), a practice deeply ingrained in Japan’s samurai culture, which becomes a thematic anchor for understanding the mental strain that societal expectations can impose on individuals. The historical practice of seppuku, though foreign to many Western audiences, is meticulously portrayed in Shōgun and offers an opportunity to delve into the complex relationship between suicide, honor, and Japanese history.

MENTAL HEALTH
Finding Hope in a World of Crisis: The Hidden Gift of Self-Healing

In today’s world, it’s easy to feel lost. Inflation is skyrocketing, housing costs are spiraling out of control, and we are still reeling from the aftermath of a global pandemic. We face an unrelenting drug epidemic, social media pressures, and an endless barrage of crises that make it feel like the world is stacked against us. There’s a deep sense of unfairness that hangs over our collective heads, leading many to question if life is as good as it used to be or whether it holds any hope for the future.

TRAVEL
Staying in Tune—The Dance of Travel and Connection in Sobriety

Traveling is usually a great adventure—a dance with the unfamiliar that invites us to embrace new sights and sounds. Yet, for those on the path of sobriety, this exhilarating journey can hold its challenges. The allure of exploration often masks the lurking triggers and temptations that can arise in new places, which makes it all too easy to feel lost or adrift without the comfort of familiar support systems. This is why staying connected while traveling is vital for your recovery.

#WEDORECOVER
Zac Efron Celebrates his 37th Birthday and 11 Years of Sobriety

Zac Efron stopped drinking in 2013 after he was admitted into an inpatient facility. In a 2016, the actor stated that sobriety helped him find structure in his life. He told Elle Magazine, “There was a moment when my morning routine was, like, Get up and Google yourself. But that stopped, dramatically and instantly, probably three years ago,” he said.

“I realised that viewing yourself through other people's pictures is not living your own life. I wasn't really being myself. A lot of my hobbies had gone out the window. I couldn't skateboard or surf for fear of being followed. Crossing the line of fear is what leads to greatness.”

#QUITLIT
What are the Health Benefits of Sobriety?

Embarking on the journey to sobriety is one of the most transformative decisions you can make for your overall well-being. It’s a question many have pondered: “What are the health benefits of sobriety?” The answer is both extensive and profound. Sobriety offers a myriad of benefits that touch every aspect of your life, from physical health to mental clarity, emotional stability, and social well-being.

SOBER EVENTS
Ghosts of Nebula Seattle Goes Alcohol-Free on October 20th

Get ready to experience the supernatural like never before—Ghosts of Nebula Seattle is hosting a special alcohol-free event at the Georgetown Steam Plant on October 20th. For one night only, immerse yourself in a spine-tingling adventure while staying true to your health and lifestyle goals. While October 20th is the only fully sober day, the experience is open from October 18th – November 2nd.

#QUITLIT
“Under the Influence” by James R. Milam and Katherine Ketcham

“Under the Influence: A Guide to the Myths and Realities of Alcoholism” by James R. Milam and Katherine Ketcham is a seminal work that delves into the complexities of alcoholism, offering a comprehensive analysis that dispels common myths and provides valuable insights for both addicts and their families. It’s been the core “textbook” of sorts for the Lakeside Recovery Treatment Center. As a person in long-term recovery myself, I have read this several times and given copies out to friends and doctors who want to understand more about the disease of alcoholism.

ENTERTAINMENT
Review of The Resident: An Analysis of Addiction and the Power of Family Support

The Resident, a medical drama set at Chastain Park Memorial Hospital, offers gripping narratives on various medical and personal issues, including addiction and recovery. One of the standout storylines revolves around Nic Nevin (played by Emily VanCamp) and her family, particularly the complex dynamics with her sister, Jessie (played by Julianna Guill), and their father, Kyle (played by Corbin Bernsen). Both Jessie and Kyle struggle with addiction, with Jessie battling substance use disorder and Kyle grappling with alcohol misuse and codependency. Through this arc, The Resident powerfully portrays the impact of addiction on family dynamics and the crucial role of family support in recovery.

#ADDTOCART
Sober October Gift Guide – Buy Something for Your Sober Boo

Embrace Sober October in Style with these must-have selections for you and your sober boo!

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, October arrives with the promise of autumn adventures and the perfect opportunity to embrace a sober lifestyle. Whether you’re on a personal journey of sobriety, showing support for friends and loved ones, or simply curious about a sober lifestyle, there’s no better time than “Sober October” to make a statement. Elevate your experience with a range of sober merchandise that celebrates your commitment and spreads the message of a thriving, alcohol-free life. Join me as we explore some must-have items to rock this Sober October and beyond.

MENTAL HEALTH
The Kingdom of The Stork

In the liminal space between what is and what will be, I find myself suspended, like a feather caught in an updraft. In this moment of uncertain flight, the true nature of existence begins to reveal itself to me—not as a static being but as a curious creature in constant flux—forever migrating toward an unseen horizon.

SOBER EVENTS
Daybreaker Launches The Purple Tour

Have you heard about The Purple Tour? It’s not your average event—an electrifying gathering designed to unite us all, no matter our political leanings. This fall, at Daybreaker, we’re not just dancing; we’re igniting a movement. When it comes to civic engagement, we’re trading the stuffy DMV vibes for the energizing pulse of a party. Welcome to the real celebration—one that values unity, community, and the joy of having your say.

#QUITLIT
Discover Tawny Lara’s Transformative Writing Courses for Aspiring Authors

In the bustling world of storytelling, finding your unique voice and achieving your writing goals can feel daunting. Aspiring authors, content creators, and self-publishing enthusiasts often find themselves at a crossroads, searching for the right guidance to turn their creative ideas into tangible success. Enter Tawny Lara—an influential voice in the literary world offering two groundbreaking courses designed to elevate your writing career in 2025.