Dry January Or Dryish January? Choose Your Reset Wisely

The New Year brings new resolutions, many of which won’t last the month. Amidst the pledges to lose weight, quit smoking, learn new skills, and spend more time with family, is the pledge to stop drinking. There are plenty of benefits to drinking less, from saving money to improvements in health. However, opponents of Dry January argue moderate alchohol consumption can lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular diseases. They also point to the positive impact of socializing with friends (over a drink, perhaps) to combat seasonal depression.

The History of Dry January

Long before Dry January was a thing, drinkers sought ways to reassess their relationship with alcohol. However, it wasn't until 2013, with the launch of the Dry January campaign by Britain's Alcohol Change UK that the idea gained global traction. Social media quickly became a platform for participants to share their experiences, turning a localized initiative into a worldwide movement.

Do You Need To Be Completely Dry In January?

Dry January experienced a surge following the increased alcohol consumption of the Covid shutdown, but the concepts of "Dryish January" and "Damp January" have recently become popular as more flexible alternatives. Transitioning from the excesses of the holidays to the abstinence of Dry January can be a major adjustment. Like most diets, a cold-turkey approach can throw you for a loop, and set you up for failure. If want to abstain but think you'll still crave a drink, try mocktails like Saint Agrestis, which many non-drinkers swear by.

Don't rule out striking a balance that allows for moderate alcohol consumption. This may be more sustainable and allow you to create better drinking habits that last beyond February 1st. Mindful strategies include only drinking on weekends, limiting consumption to social occasions, establishing drink maximums, and opting for low-proof libations like beer, wine, and lower ABV spirits. These approaches emphasize the importance of finding a healthy relationship with alcohol.

Initiatives like Dry January, and its offshoots, offer structured and mindful options to curb excessive drinking. The opportunity to reset and reconsider habits is key for anyone who wants to have a healthier relationship with alcohol. After all, embracing moderation is always the goal. Regardless of how you approach your consumption in January, make sure you're fostering habits for yourself and others that promote conscientious decisions that will power you through the year... At least until the next holiday season.