In December we heavily focus on the spirit of giving to others, but the start of January is a chance to turn that kindness and generosity inward. One meaningful way to give back to yourself is by participating in Dry January, a commitment to pause alcohol consumption for the month. Despite the many obvious physical benefits of taking some time away from drinking, pausing alcohol can also give us great insight into how we think, relate to the world and form new habits. While I am not an expert, I can share with you some insights and benefits I’ve picked up along the way of living alcohol-free.
Starting Fresh: My Journey
Full disclosure-I have never officially participated in Dry January, but I do know something about the early days of not drinking. By the time my first January without alcohol rolled around, I was 3 months sober. I was fairly solid, but I was also sitting with the uncertainty that comes with starting something new. I knew drinking well. I knew what to expect. What I didn’t know in the early days of my recovery was how to sit with the unknown, unbind myself from outcomes and expectations and embrace the journey. And while I didn’t experience Dry January in the traditional sense, I understand the courage it takes to try something unfamiliar and the rewards that come from pushing past the discomfort. Sometimes the rewards are not immediately obvious, but they do come! Hang in there.
A Different Perspective: The Alcohol Experiment™
For those who are looking to do introspective work on their relationship with alcohol, Annie Grace’s, The Alcohol Experiment™ is a free 30-day challenge that has daily reflections, practical insights, education on alcohol and more. One of my favourite teachings from Annie Grace is shifting the mentality of alcohol being something you “give up” to focusing on what you are gaining from removing it. Rather than viewing going alcohol-free for any amount of time as a “loss”, Annie Grace suggests viewing it as reclamation. Whether it’s better sleep, stronger relationships or increased energy, try to focus on the gifts of Dry January throughout the month. I’ve met many people who tell me that participating in her 30-day experiment was a game changer in how they viewed their own relationship with alcohol. Many enjoy the benefits so much that they continue their alcohol-free journey beyond 30 days.
The Rewards of Dry January
The benefits of Dry January will vary from person to person but I can vouch for many perks that I still enjoy after 5 years of sobriety. Waking up without a hangover is something that I still revel in every day. I have less brain fog and more mental clarity. I’ve also been able to build my emotional resilience and respond to difficult situations with thoughtfulness and intention. Each individual will experience their own unique benefits from living alcohol-free, but what I can personally attest to is that the gifts of sobriety extend far beyond 31 days.
Whether this is your first time participating in Dry January, something you do every year, or you’re seasoned in an alcohol-free lifestyle, the month offers numerous benefits and serves as a valuable learning opportunity. It’s a chance to hit the reset button, reflect on your relationship with alcohol, and discover how life can feel with more clarity, energy, and purpose. I wish you all the best as you start your journey.
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By: Emily Thompson
Emily has been sober for 5 years and works in children's mental health. As the Social Media Manager for Clearsips, Emily is passionate about building supportive sober communities and staying active in recovery spaces.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general information purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Sometimes cessation from alcohol can cause physical withdrawal symptoms that require medical care. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting Dry January.