If you took part in Dry January the chances are you’ve already discovered some of the benefits of reducing your alcohol intake – including better sleep, extra energy, clearer skin, weight loss and saving money.
However, the real magic often happens when Dry January is over. According to research published by Alcohol Change UK, Dry January helps people to drink more healthily all year round.1
If being alcohol-free for 31 days has shown you that you don’t need alcohol to have fun or relax – or has helped you build the resilience to avoid drinking more than you want to – why not keep the progress going?
February is a time when some of us will slip back into our old drinking routines. If pouring a glass of your favourite tipple is proving too much to resist, here are a couple of tips to help you continue with the healthy habits:
- Make time to reflect on how Dry January has benefited you and write your thoughts down. Think about your newly boosted levels of health, well-being and happiness, and the money you have saved.
- Ask yourself if you really enjoy drinking alcohol? If that first glass of wine after Dry January isn’t how you remember it, take stock of the reasons why you’re drinking.
- Try not to let others cloud your judgement. Choosing not to drink is a decision we should all be able to make freely. ‘Sober shaming’ can be harmful but showing solidarity with one another can make a huge difference. Use #StopSoberShaming to show your support or find out more on the Alcohol Change UK campaign page.
Please reach out to us if you have any questions. We’re at your service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- Alcohol Change UK. Dry January. https://alcoholchange.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/dry-january/why-do-dry-january-1/why-do-dry-january. Accessed 25 January 2022.
