As a new year begins, many people take a long, hard look at themselves. The inevitable over-indulgence of the festive season might be there when they look in the mirror. Or they might see the turn of the calendar as the perfect time to make some lifestyle changes.
Now, I’m sure there are some people who vow, as New Year’s Day awakens, to go harder, indulge more; who make a resolution to commit to the cause of drinking more booze (and bloody well enjoying it).
Fair play.
But for most people, new year’s resolutions inevitably take the form of learning something new, improving their job prospects or, often, being a bit healthier.
That’s where Dry January comes in.
The origins of Dry January
Dry January started in the United Kingdom, introduced by the charity Alcohol Change UK (formerly known as Alcohol Concern) in 2013. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol and encourage individuals to take a break from drinking for the month of January. In the years following its inception, Dry January gained momentum and garnered support worldwide. The campaign’s success can be attributed to its relatability, the growing interest in health and wellness, and the desire to reassess and reset after the festive season.
The rise of social media platforms also played a significant role in the proliferation and success of Dry January. Hashtags such as #DryJanuary and #AlcoholFree gained popularity, allowing participants to share their experiences, challenges and achievements. Online communities and support groups provided a sense of camaraderie, encouragement, and a space for individuals to seek advice and inspiration throughout the month.
The success and credibility of Dry January can be attributed to the support and endorsement it has received from reputable organisations, including universities and healthcare institutions, such as Public Health England. The campaign aligns with public health initiatives and recommendations to reduce alcohol consumption for improved health outcomes. UK universities, such as Oxford and Newcastle, have conducted research highlighting the benefits of reducing alcohol intake, further supporting the significance of Dry January.
Why people choose to do Dry January
One of the primary reasons individuals choose to participate in Dry January is to prioritise their health and well-being. Alcohol consumption can have various negative effects on the body, including liver damage, increased risk of certain cancers and weight gain. By abstaining from alcohol for a month, participants give their bodies a chance to recover, improve their overall health, and establish healthier habits. These can include simple things like being better hydrated and sleeping better.
Alcohol can also affect our mental and emotional well-being. Many people participate in Dry January to gain mental clarity, improve focus and enhance their overall emotional state. Alcohol is a depressant and can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. By taking a break from alcohol, participants often experience improved moods. A dry month can lead to improved concentration and mental clarity.
Participating in Dry January can also help you save money – especially useful if getting to grips with your finances is another of your new year’s resolutions.
Challenge yourself
For some, not drinking in January is seen as a personal challenge, an opportunity to test out their willpower and cultivate a renewed sense of self-discipline. By setting a clear goal and successfully completing the month without drinking alcohol, can give a real sense of achievement, particularly if alcohol is a common feature of your social life.
And on that note, doing the month dry can also make you recalibrate your social life. You can see it as a form of social experiment, discovering alternative activities and ways of socialising that don’t revolve around alcohol.
We all know how easy it is to form habits (and how much easier bad habits are to embed themselves ). Participating in Dry January means you can step back and assess your relationship with alcohol. It provides an opportunity to reflect on drinking habits, identify any problematic patterns, and make conscious decisions about future alcohol consumption. Dry January can serve as a catalyst to form healthier long-term habits regarding alcohol consumption.
Some people also use Dry January as an opportunity to raise funds for charitable causes. By turning their personal challenge into a platform for fundraising, participants contribute to the greater good while achieving their own goals.
The role of NA drinks in Dry January
Non-alcoholic wine and beer can really come into their own during Dry January. There is a growing demand for NA drinks anyway, as people generally become more health conscious and aware of the role alcohol can play in their health and well-being, but Dry January brings these products to the fore. They allow people to have the benefits of abstaining from alcohol while still enjoying the taste of drinks they love. They can also be really handy in social situations during the month.
Dry January is actually often the first time lots of people explore the world of non-alcoholic drinks. Fortunately, with growing demand comes more choice. So whether you prefer a crisp lager, a malty dark brew, a fruity white wine or a roust red one, there will be a non-alcoholic drink to suit your palate – and make Dry January a whole lot more enjoyable.
Image credit: Waldemar