The Start of a New Year with Dry January
A New Year means a fresh start, and for many people, it signifies a commitment to sobriety during the first month of the year, popularly referred to as “Dry January.” This growing trend encourages individuals to abstain from alcohol, allowing them to reset after the indulgence of the holiday season.
Expert Insights on Dry January
Experts suggest that the month-long break can lead to several benefits, including better sleep, improved mood, and enhanced overall well-being. “I think it’s a really great idea for a lot of people,” said Dr. Michelle DiBlasi, the chief of inpatient psychiatry at Tufts Medical Center. “Dry January kind of gives some people the opportunity to maybe reduce the amount of alcohol that they are drinking or just to say maybe I’ll just try going a month without doing it and see what sort of benefits there are.”
Live Healthier with Alcohol-Free Options
Businesses catering to this trend are on the rise. For instance, Pat Doling, owner of Dray Drinks, reported an increasing interest in alcohol-free wines and cocktails among his customers in Boston and Cambridge. He noted, “Many of the things here today are pretty comparable to the alcoholic version. Post-pandemic, there’s been a lot of focus on just health generally and the various things that keep your body good all the time.”
Practical Tips for Success
For those committed to participating in Dry January, here are a few tips to stay on track:
- Find a non-alcoholic substitution
- Seek a supportive friend or group
- Maintain a positive mindset
- Set clear goals and track your progress
Long-Lasting Impact of Dry January
Research from the American Psychological Association suggests that completing Dry January can lead to a significant reduction in alcohol consumption in the following months. Those who succeed often drink less frequently even six months after the month-long challenge. “I’ve seen this with people where they’ve tried it, just trying not drinking at all or just drinking less, and they often times see such improvement in their mood, wellbeing, and energy levels that they often don’t really want to go back to doing it,” Dr. DiBlasi added.
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