Throughout the course of history, the people of Mongolia have established themselves as a strong-willed and sturdy group of humans. From the country’s wintery border with Siberia to the heat of the Gobi Desert to the south, Mongolians live in a variety of environments and have developed subcultures that are unique to specific regions. Even today, they hold fast to their nomadic traditions, with some people erecting yurts in parts of cities. However, another tradition that has made it to modern times is horse milk, which, according to a religious leader, may have started to outpace alcohol. Let’s take a closer look at this unusual relationship.
Inflation Following Independence
Like other countries that had been ruled by the Soviet Union, Mongolia experienced economic troubles once the Soviet reign came to a close, resulting in poor employment rates and a massive inflation rate of 250%. As a result, and as expected, alcohol consumption also began to skyrocket. Jargalsaikhan Mendee, former Mongolian defense attaché to the U.S. and a political scientist, explains that the economic problems of the 1990s triggered a national craving for alcohol.
Just Drink Mare’s Milk
In a unique twist, the Dalai Lama presented a unique exchange. In an interview with John Oliver in 2017, the Tibetan spiritual leader explained how he convinced Mongolia to stop drinking alcohol and, instead, turn to consume traditional mare’s milk. According to Mendee, the Dalai Lama had encouraged the population to start drinking airag, a traditional Mongolian drink dating back thousands of years and crafted from fermented mare’s milk.
Overall, the concept is that people will gain a preference for a drink that’s not as alcoholic as vodka. Airag contains 5-10% alcohol, while vodka contains a staggering 30-40% of alcohol. While it might not be complete abstinence, the mare’s milk could be a gateway to healthier living.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can easily be one of the most frightening aspects of healing. During the course of the recovery process, you will suffer from minor to severe symptoms that may include night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember that you can find the strength to overcome these problems. However, you must always seek medical attention when you have decided to cut ties with alcohol, as the withdrawal process can be notoriously dangerous. Never attempt to do this without the supervision of a trained specialist.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
