When January arrives, I always say, “this is the month to stop drinking… for real.” I mean, celebrating Dry January is just the beginning of going alcohol-free forever! It’s more like a chance to pause yourself, take stock and set your intentions for the upcoming journey. However, you can’t take Dry January as just about taking a break from alcohol for a month - it’s a journey beyond that, a chance to reset, clear our minds, and nurture our mental health.
When I committed myself to stay away from alcohol for a month, I had no idea what to expect. I was so comforting to those social drinks, you know, having a glass of wine with friends. It wasn’t just the alcohol; it was my habit, the familiarity, the sense of relaxation it brought. But something inside me knew it was time for a change. I began to realise how alcohol was affecting my mind and my mood. It just felt like the right time to make a shift. Taking a break didn’t just give my body a rest, it gave my mind the space to reset and find clarity. It wasn’t immediate, but as the days went on, I started feeling the benefits in ways I didn’t expect. In fact, it was during this journey that I found myself inspired to start Sans Drinks! It’s been quite a journey and it’s no better time to share the experience with you!
Dry Jan means:
1. Clearer mind and less anxiety
It didn’t take long before I realised that my mind felt clearer. We often link alcohol with stress-relieving properties, but in reality, it is actually a depressant. It’s easy to believe that a drink will help you relax, but over time, I started to notice that it only added to my feelings of anxiety and stress. In the days after drinking, I would often find myself caught in overthinking and relentlessness.
But once I started doing Dry January, something really started to shift. Just after a few days of not drinking, I started noticing fewer racing thoughts and an overall sense of mental calm. My mind felt sharper, and even more focused. It was as if the fog had lifted, and I could think more clearly. And my sleep, too, improved. Alcohol had always disrupted my rest, but now, I was waking up feeling more refreshed and without any guilt. That extra sleep made me manage my anxiety, and I felt a deep sense of peace that I hadn’t realised I was missing.
2. Improved mood and emotional balance
One of the things that surprised me most about Dry January was how much more stable my mood became. When I used to drank, I’d often experience emotional highs and lows. The post-drink sluggishness or hangover would leave me irritable and exhausted. I also noticed how alcohol sometimes exacerbated feelings of sadness or frustration that I might have otherwise brushed off. It just felt like my emotions were married to the fluctuations of drinking.
After quitting alcohol, I started to feel that my emotions are more stable. There was less of that unpredictable rollercoaster of mood swings. Even my energy levels had remained steady throughout the day, and I wasn’t feeling emotionally drained after a night out. I was more emotionally balanced and in control of my reactions from how I interacted with others to how I handled daily challenges.
3. Increased self-esteem
It’s funny how something as simple as not drinking can have such a huge effect on your self-esteem. For me, Dry January became a personal challenge. I wanted to prove to myself that I could go a whole month without reaching for a drink. Each day that passed made me feel a little stronger and more empowered.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about sticking to a goal, especially when it’s something that needs discipline. Over time as I made my way through the month, I realised that I wasn’t just achieving something external, I was proving to myself that I had the willpower to make better choices for a mindful life and my mental well-being. That sense of accomplishment (a little small), boosted my confidence and made me feel more in control of my decisions.
4. Better relationships
Another unexpected benefit of Dry January was the impact it had on my relationships. In the beginning, I thought it might be challenging to socialise without alcohol, especially in a group where drinking was considered a central part. But I soon found that without drinking, my conversations were more meaningful. And I was able to connect with others on a deeper level.
You may find alcohol often works as a social lubricant; but it also has a way of masking real emotions. When I was not drinking, I found myself being more present and attentive to those around me. Honestly, I was able to have genuine conversations without the haze of alcohol clouding my thoughts. It was refreshing. Not only that, but there was a sense of clarity that came with being fully engaged - no more regrets or conflicts after a night out. I found that my relationships (with my loved ones) felt more authentic and grounded.
Also Read- Doing Dry January? These tips will help you enjoy it
5. Embrace non-alcoholic drinks
A big part of Dry January is to find new ways to enjoy social interactions without the usual drink in hand. But let’s be honest, replacing alcohol can feel like a challenge at first. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised by how many delicious non-alcoholic drinks there are now. The options are better than ever, and I’ve stocked most of them at Sans Drinks. They make it much easier to stay on track.
These are my recommendations:
Guinness 0.0 Non-Alcoholic Stout
Worth noting: Brewed using the finest natural ingredients. Delivers deep and roasted notes. Low in sugar.
Social proof: “I absolutely love this . Tastes similar to the real deal. Big cans too. A little flatter than normal Guinness but half way through a normal it’s flat anyway. Pours like a full strength , looks great on the pour with the velvet layers shimmering down. For a non alcoholic beer it fills the void for me….better than any non alcoholic stout I have ever tasted.”
[product name="lyres-american-malt-bourbon-whiskey-non-alc"]
Worth noting: Complex, full-bodied spirit, offers a classic flavour profile with a mellow finish. Vegan, low in sugar, and 93% fewer calories than traditional bourbon.
Social proof: “I’m not a fan of Bourbon Whiskey, but I wanted to make an alcohol free version of Bailey’s Irish Cream for Dry July. This product worked a treat in a recipe I found online. The taste was better than I remember.”
[product name="ms-sans-margarita-premixed-alcohol-free"]
Worth noting: Premixed and ready to pour. Made with alcohol-free spirits, Tahitian lime juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Low in sugar, low in calories, and vegan-friendly.
Social proof: “Love this with half soda water and ice. A splash of Tabasco sauce is great for a bit of extra kick. It’s not sweet and is very refreshing.”
[product name="giesen-0-marlborough-riesling"]
Worth noting: Combines the citrus essence of Marlborough with the floral allure of Waipara. Zingy lime and ripe mandarin.
Social proof: “Having completed 100 days alcohol free and preferring not to drink at home. I need it an alternative to wine that I could happily drink each afternoon. Whilst I wouldn’t normally drink a sweet wine, I have found this Riesling to be very palatable particularly if it’s nice and cold.. it’s refreshing and doesn’t have the strange taste that many of the other zero alcohol wines have. I soon got used to the sweeter drink. And didn’t have to be concerned that it meant extra calories as it’s considerably less than a normal glass of wine anyway..”
[product name="apple-thief-pink-lady-non-alcoholic-cider"]
Worth noting: Delightful balance of medium flavour with a subtle tartness at the finish. Crystal-clear appearance with a gentle yellow-green tint. Vegan-friendly, gluten-free.
These top picks have made my transition from being alcoholic to non-alcoholic a lot easier and more enjoyable. It’s pretty amazing to taste these delicious alternatives full of flavours without feeling like I’m missing out.
6. Extra time for self-care
Last but not least, another surprising benefits of Dry January is getting the extra time I’ve had for self-care. Without the temptation of having a drink after a long day, I’ve found myself using that time for activities that really nourish my mental and physical well-being. For say, you may want to read a new book, practice yoga, get a good night’s sleep!
It’s a chance to rediscover hobbies and activities that you might not have time for! I feel more present in my life and I’ve noticed a deeper sense of contentment that wasn’t there when I was caught up in the drinking cycle.
If you’re considering doing Dry January, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s not about depriving yourself or feeling like you're missing out; it’s about being a “NEW YOU” what it feels like to be fully present, emotionally balanced and in control of your life.
I’m excited to continue this journey, and I hope you’ll join me in embracing the mental health benefits of a month without alcohol and even further! Tag @Sansdrinks in your Dry January monents and we’ll feature them all. Use hashtags in your post #DryJanWithSansDrinks.
When January arrives, I always say, “this is the month to stop drinking… for real.” I mean, celebrating Dry January is just the beginning of going alcohol-free forever! It’s more like a chance to pause yourself, take stock and set your intentions for the upcoming journey. However, you can’t take Dry January as just about taking a break from alcohol for a month - it’s a journey beyond that, a chance to reset, clear our minds, and nurture our mental health.
When I committed myself to stay away from alcohol for a month, I had no idea what to expect. I was so comforting to those social drinks, you know, having a glass of wine with friends. It wasn’t just the alcohol; it was my habit, the familiarity, the sense of relaxation it brought. But something inside me knew it was time for a change. I began to realise how alcohol was affecting my mind and my mood. It just felt like the right time to make a shift. Taking a break didn’t just give my body a rest, it gave my mind the space to reset and find clarity. It wasn’t immediate, but as the days went on, I started feeling the benefits in ways I didn’t expect. In fact, it was during this journey that I found myself inspired to start Sans Drinks! It’s been quite a journey and it’s no better time to share the experience with you!
Dry Jan means:
1. Clearer mind and less anxiety
It didn’t take long before I realised that my mind felt clearer. We often link alcohol with stress-relieving properties, but in reality, it is actually a depressant. It’s easy to believe that a drink will help you relax, but over time, I started to notice that it only added to my feelings of anxiety and stress. In the days after drinking, I would often find myself caught in overthinking and relentlessness.
But once I started doing Dry January, something really started to shift. Just after a few days of not drinking, I started noticing fewer racing thoughts and an overall sense of mental calm. My mind felt sharper, and even more focused. It was as if the fog had lifted, and I could think more clearly. And my sleep, too, improved. Alcohol had always disrupted my rest, but now, I was waking up feeling more refreshed and without any guilt. That extra sleep made me manage my anxiety, and I felt a deep sense of peace that I hadn’t realised I was missing.
2. Improved mood and emotional balance
One of the things that surprised me most about Dry January was how much more stable my mood became. When I used to drank, I’d often experience emotional highs and lows. The post-drink sluggishness or hangover would leave me irritable and exhausted. I also noticed how alcohol sometimes exacerbated feelings of sadness or frustration that I might have otherwise brushed off. It just felt like my emotions were married to the fluctuations of drinking.
After quitting alcohol, I started to feel that my emotions are more stable. There was less of that unpredictable rollercoaster of mood swings. Even my energy levels had remained steady throughout the day, and I wasn’t feeling emotionally drained after a night out. I was more emotionally balanced and in control of my reactions from how I interacted with others to how I handled daily challenges.
3. Increased self-esteem
It’s funny how something as simple as not drinking can have such a huge effect on your self-esteem. For me, Dry January became a personal challenge. I wanted to prove to myself that I could go a whole month without reaching for a drink. Each day that passed made me feel a little stronger and more empowered.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about sticking to a goal, especially when it’s something that needs discipline. Over time as I made my way through the month, I realised that I wasn’t just achieving something external, I was proving to myself that I had the willpower to make better choices for a mindful life and my mental well-being. That sense of accomplishment (a little small), boosted my confidence and made me feel more in control of my decisions.
4. Better relationships
Another unexpected benefit of Dry January was the impact it had on my relationships. In the beginning, I thought it might be challenging to socialise without alcohol, especially in a group where drinking was considered a central part. But I soon found that without drinking, my conversations were more meaningful. And I was able to connect with others on a deeper level.
You may find alcohol often works as a social lubricant; but it also has a way of masking real emotions. When I was not drinking, I found myself being more present and attentive to those around me. Honestly, I was able to have genuine conversations without the haze of alcohol clouding my thoughts. It was refreshing. Not only that, but there was a sense of clarity that came with being fully engaged - no more regrets or conflicts after a night out. I found that my relationships (with my loved ones) felt more authentic and grounded.
Also Read- Doing Dry January? These tips will help you enjoy it
5. Embrace non-alcoholic drinks
A big part of Dry January is to find new ways to enjoy social interactions without the usual drink in hand. But let’s be honest, replacing alcohol can feel like a challenge at first. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised by how many delicious non-alcoholic drinks there are now. The options are better than ever, and I’ve stocked most of them at Sans Drinks. They make it much easier to stay on track.
These are my recommendations:
Guinness 0.0 Non-Alcoholic Stout
Worth noting: Brewed using the finest natural ingredients. Delivers deep and roasted notes. Low in sugar.
Social proof: “I absolutely love this . Tastes similar to the real deal. Big cans too. A little flatter than normal Guinness but half way through a normal it’s flat anyway. Pours like a full strength , looks great on the pour with the velvet layers shimmering down. For a non alcoholic beer it fills the void for me….better than any non alcoholic stout I have ever tasted.”
Worth noting: Complex, full-bodied spirit, offers a classic flavour profile with a mellow finish. Vegan, low in sugar, and 93% fewer calories than traditional bourbon.
Social proof: “I’m not a fan of Bourbon Whiskey, but I wanted to make an alcohol free version of Bailey’s Irish Cream for Dry July. This product worked a treat in a recipe I found online. The taste was better than I remember.”
Worth noting: Premixed and ready to pour. Made with alcohol-free spirits, Tahitian lime juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Low in sugar, low in calories, and vegan-friendly.
Social proof: “Love this with half soda water and ice. A splash of Tabasco sauce is great for a bit of extra kick. It’s not sweet and is very refreshing.”
Worth noting: Combines the citrus essence of Marlborough with the floral allure of Waipara. Zingy lime and ripe mandarin.
Social proof: “Having completed 100 days alcohol free and preferring not to drink at home. I need it an alternative to wine that I could happily drink each afternoon. Whilst I wouldn’t normally drink a sweet wine, I have found this Riesling to be very palatable particularly if it’s nice and cold.. it’s refreshing and doesn’t have the strange taste that many of the other zero alcohol wines have. I soon got used to the sweeter drink. And didn’t have to be concerned that it meant extra calories as it’s considerably less than a normal glass of wine anyway..”
Worth noting: Delightful balance of medium flavour with a subtle tartness at the finish. Crystal-clear appearance with a gentle yellow-green tint. Vegan-friendly, gluten-free.
These top picks have made my transition from being alcoholic to non-alcoholic a lot easier and more enjoyable. It’s pretty amazing to taste these delicious alternatives full of flavours without feeling like I’m missing out.
6. Extra time for self-care
Last but not least, another surprising benefits of Dry January is getting the extra time I’ve had for self-care. Without the temptation of having a drink after a long day, I’ve found myself using that time for activities that really nourish my mental and physical well-being. For say, you may want to read a new book, practice yoga, get a good night’s sleep!
It’s a chance to rediscover hobbies and activities that you might not have time for! I feel more present in my life and I’ve noticed a deeper sense of contentment that wasn’t there when I was caught up in the drinking cycle.
If you’re considering doing Dry January, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s not about depriving yourself or feeling like you're missing out; it’s about being a “NEW YOU” what it feels like to be fully present, emotionally balanced and in control of your life.
I’m excited to continue this journey, and I hope you’ll join me in embracing the mental health benefits of a month without alcohol and even further! Tag @Sansdrinks in your Dry January monents and we’ll feature them all. Use hashtags in your post #DryJanWithSansDrinks.
