Kyle Richards Speaks About Being 'Fully Present And Clear' After 1 Year Sober

In a heartfelt message shared on her Instagram account, reality TV star Kyle Richards expressed gratitude to her fans and followers for their supportive comments as she celebrated one year of being "alcohol-free." Richards recently shared a lengthy post on Instagram marking the incredible milestone.

The actress and television personality, known for appearing on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," opened up about her decision to quit alcohol and how it has positively impacted her life, calling it a "win-win."

Keep on reading to learn more.

In a heartfelt message shared on her Instagram stories, Richards expressed gratitude to her fans and followers for their supportive comments on her sobriety journey. The reality TV personality shared a sweet selfie of herself sitting outside in the sun wearing a black sports bra and dark sunglasses.

"Sitting outside reading all your DM's regarding my last post," Richards noted. "It seems many of you have similar stories and want to go that route but are unsure how to. We are so programmed to think that we have to drink when we go out to socialize. Many of us are just on autopilot. And so many of us are accustomed to not being fully present these days anyway."

She shared encouraging words with fans and followers who might want to travel the same path but haven't taken the first step.

"There are plenty of things you can order that taste better than alcohol, are better for our bodies, and won't leave you feeling like sh*t & remorseful the next day," Richards wrote. "Plus, being fully present and clear about everything you say and do feels good."

The "RHOBH" star also described her decision to quit alcohol as a "win-win" situation.

Richards highlighted the numerous benefits she has experienced since embracing sobriety, including improved mental clarity, increased energy levels, and enhanced overall well-being. She seemingly expressed her gratitude for being able to prioritize her health and focus on her personal growth.

"As someone who has always struggled with anxiety, I was shocked to find myself surprisingly calm in situations that normally trigger my anxiety. Safe to say it's a win-win for me," Richards concluded.

Richards, 54, recently took to Instagram to share her milestone achievement with millions of followers. She posted a radiant selfie of herself in a black singlet and brown cowboy hat, donning a pouty smile as she reflected on the challenges she faced along the way.

"Today marks one year alcohol-free for me," Richards began. "Several things made me conclude that I didn't want to drink. First and foremost, I didn't feel it had a place where I wanted to be."

The reality star noted that she had to decide to quit alcohol as "I knew it was no longer serving me physically, mentally or spiritually" before sharing that the process "was much easier than I thought it would be."

"I never put a time frame on when I would drink again or say IF I ever would. I know I have never felt better physically or been clearer mentally," Richards continued. "I've learned that I still overshare, but at least I don't have the 'anxiety' thinking about it. I've learned I still do stupid things sometimes and beat myself up about it."

The bravo star noted that her decision was "met with resistance by some," but she didn't throw the towel on it, noting that her peers were "mainly supportive."

According to People magazine, Richards and her husband, Mauricio Umansky, have reportedly "separated" after 27 years of marriage. A source close to the couple revealed they've been separated for a while now but still live together under the same roof.

"Kyle and Mauricio have been separated for a while now but still live under the same roof. They remain amicable as they figure out what's next for them and their family," the source shared.

However, in a joint statement released on their respective Instagram accounts, Richards and Umansky emphasized that "any claims regarding divorcing are untrue," although they've indeed had "a rough year."

"In regards to the news that came out about us today... Any claims regarding divorcing are untrue," the statement read. "However, yes, we have had a rough year. The most challenging one of our marriage. But we both love and respect each other tremendously."

"There has been no wrongdoing on anyone's part. Although we are in the public eye, we ask to be able to work through our issues privately. While it may be entertaining to speculate, please do not create false stories to fit a further salacious narrative," the statement concluded, with the pair thanking fans for their "love and support."