What is Dry January & why is it a "thing"?

Every January for the past several years, I’ve heard about “Dry January”.
I’ve never paid much attention to it.

Today I was watching a morning show and again, they were discussing this topic. So I decided to do some research.

Dry January is basically keeping away from alcohoclic beverages for the month of January. After a long Holiday season, some use January as a form of detox. A way to recoup from the fesitivies, I suppose.

I’m guessing the reason I haven’t become aquainted with Dry january, is because I do not regularly drink. Heck, I don’t socially drink. Now, don’t get me wrong, I can drink & my early 20’s I enjoyed a few mixed cocktails, but I never let it become a thing for me. My brother said that he didn’t see me drink until I was 33. I’ll have a glass of wine or two while cooking Christmas dinner or while eating it. I will confess that I did my very first (and will be only) shot of Jameson Whiskey with my family after my brother’s Memorial Services in December, as a tribute to our fallen soldier.
Being a child of an alcoholic, I have always been very keen on how easily I can fall to this addiction. Unfortunaly, my brother embraced it. He was not always nice when he drank.

2020 was a horrid year and as I was watching this show today, someone was saying that she enjoys a glass of wine after work. But since she is working from home, it’s not as moderated. If you go to happy hour, each glass is $6-$12 (I’m guessing). Then you need to tip your server and think about your drive home.

Well, working from home, you eliminate the factors listed above and a glass can easily become a bottle (or two) in one night. Stress plays a big role in drinking, it’s a way to escape the problems plaguing you. Parties and gatherings usually have alcohol and in same cases, you feel like you need to drink to fit in.

So why would you participate in Dry January?

Some people may want to get back into a healthy routine, some may want to become sober for good.
I found an article from 2019 that listed some good reasons why Dry January is beneficial.

1. You’ll learn a lot about your relationship with alcohol.
   You may discover whether is stress or social related and it can help you with moderating your intake if you choose to do so.

2. You could save money.
   How much is a bottle of wine, a case of beer, or your favorite whiskey? Think about the money you spend weekly or even monthly & what else you could be doing with those funds.

3. Your sleep and energy may improve.
   Alcohol can make you sleepy. However, it doesn’t provide you with a restful sleep and have a long night out, and your hangover friend will be hanging around.

4. You could lose weight.
   Beer belly anyone? If you are socially drinking, then you’re probably eating. A nibble here & there and the next thing you know, the entire plate of loaded fries is gone!

5. You may feel the desire to drink less often.
   The shine of drinking could wear off. Instead of a rum & coke, have a coke, or sprite, or setlzer water. You may be just as content.

6. Your body will be happier.
   Alcohol can damage so many things in your body and excessive drinking can damage cells and cause liver problems.

If you are thinking about participating in Dry January, Congratulations!

Choosing to refrain from alcohol may be a challenge for some and support is out there.
Family and friends who are supportive and can encourage you is always a good thing.
If you need more help that what they can provide, I encourage you to seek it.

If you drink regularly and heavily, please be mindful of dangerous withdrawls and adverse reactions. A professional may be able to help you with a plan to gradually end your desire or need for alcohol.

I raise my glass of iced water to you (cause I’m trying to be healthier myself)
and toast you to a healthy 2021!