Sober Curious?
Participating in a Dry January Can Explore Your Relationship With Alcohol.
No other day of the year are we more motivated to commit to our health than the first of January. After a month of holiday sweets, eggnog, and champagne, no one feels their best. Waking up hungover on January 1 we vow to NEVER DRINK AGAIN.
Starting the new year inspires new habits. The popular health challenge of “Dry January” or a commitment to not drink alcohol during January is one example.
Benefits of being sober for a month
Need a reason to give up alcohol for a month? There is a sleuth of health benefits to abstaining from alcohol.
Improve physical health
- Better Sleep
Giving up alcohol can lead to better sleep and feeling more rested. Studies have shown that consuming alcohol disrupts sleep cycles leading to insomnia, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness.
- Glowing Skin
Less alcohol means better hydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. Being free of alcohol means improved skin and a less bloated or puffy appearance.
- Weight Loss
Weight loss can be a pleasant side effect of skipping alcohol. Alcohol contains empty calories and drinking to excess can cause cravings for sugar and carbohydrate-rich foods. Alcohol can also lower self-control in food regulation.
- Enhance Internal Health
Heavy alcohol use can disrupt the function of multiple organs such as the liver, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, heart, and bone. Abstaining from alcohol can achieve partial to full recovery of the affected organs.
Elevate mental health
- Decreased Anxiety and Depression
Cessation of alcohol is linked to decreasing symptoms of anxiety and depression. According to research, women in particular experience a positive impact on overall well-being by abstaining from alcohol.
- Better cognitive performance
According to a recent study, an increase in cognitive performance can be seen in as little as 18 days after stopping alcohol.
Examine social and personal relationships
Taking alcohol out of the social equation allows our relationships with others and ourselves to be examined.
We can explore our relationship with alcohol itself. Do you drink because you feel uncomfortable in social situations? Do you drink because you feel unhappy with the relationships surrounding you or yourself? Do you need to incorporate other self-care techniques to deal with stress in your life?
Taking the time to connect with others sober can strengthen relationships and increase the quality of time spent with those you love.
Financial Benefits
Cocktails and the snacks that follow can add up financially. You may find more room in your budget when you stop drinking. You can choose to connect with others in more organic ways such as being outside on hikes or bike rides or exploring new destinations.
Personal Growth and Long-Term Habits
- Self-reflection and goal-setting
With a clear mind, take advantage of self-reflection. What are your current drinking habits? Are you comfortable with where you are or do you want to develop healthier habits? Set goals you wish to obtain and steps to achieve those goals.
- Discipline and long-term health habits
This is a great time to decide what your drinking should look like in the future. Do you wish to give up alcohol altogether or curb back on the amount of alcohol you drink?
Consider seeking community support from other groups or activities to grow your social circle and interests outside of alcohol.
Are you up to the challenge?
The decision to give up alcohol for any length of time is a personal choice. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your relationship with alcohol, experience withdrawal symptoms from abstaining, or if you’re considering making significant changes to your lifestyle.
Having a dry January doesn’t mean giving up alcohol forever but it can have positive long-term effects on your health and wellbeing.
