Get ready to start living your best life in the new year by vowing to live a healthier lifestyle. And, what better way to do that than with Dry January?
The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to reassess your drinking habits. Whether you partied a little too hard over the holidays or just need a reset, January is the ideal time to cut back on alcohol and re-energize.
If you’re considering participating in Dry January, you’re in good company. According to a Morning Consult survey, 15% of people planned to take part in Dry January 2023, with 70% committing to the entire month alcohol-free.
According to Ashley Pena, L.C.S.W., a licensed social worker and executive director at Mission Connection, Dry January may serve as a crucial step for individuals grappling with alcohol dependency.
But Dry January isn’t just for heavy drinkers. According to Sherie Nelson, R.D.N., wellness director at Elior North America, participating in Dry January can help create a lasting behavior change for anyone.
The health benefits of Dry January are plentiful, whether you go completely alcohol-free or opt for a “damp” January. But no matter how you approach it, cutting back on alcohol can benefit your health.
To get started with Dry January, Pena suggests assessing your alcohol intake and seeking guidance from a professional if needed.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a frequent drinker or not—making changes to your alcohol intake can be challenging. And it’s important to navigate this journey safely with professional help, Pena says.
So, what exactly is Dry January and how can it benefit your health? Let’s find out.
What is Dry January?
Created by U.K.-based nonprofit Alcohol Change UK, “Dry January” means abstaining from alcohol for the entire month. It began in 2013 with over 4,300 participants and has grown into a worldwide movement with millions of enthusiastic participants.
Participants claim that going alcohol-free for one month can reverse the negative health impacts of regular drinking and improve sleep and energy levels.
