The 2nd Week in January is when most are likely to quit dry Jan

January is a common time for setting those January resolutions, typically health related with Dry January being particularly popular to offset the excess of Christmas and New Year. 

However, it seems that the time people are most likely to give up on these resolutions is the second week of January. And the second Friday in January being a key tipping point for bailing on Dry Jan.  Key reasons include the temptations offered during weekend socialising, a motivation dip and stress or habitual triggers.

So, as we eagerly head into the weekend, now seems an opportune time to remind ourselves of the many physical, mental and social benefits of giving ourselves a break from alcohol and some helpful tips to keep us dry this weekend.

1.      Improved sleep

2.      Improved energy flow

3.      Better mood

4.      Improved clarity and focus

5.      Improved skin

6.      Healthier choices around food – less inclination to reach for unhealthy snacks

7.      Influences a healthier lifestyle – one positive health action will often lead to another

8.      Less burden of the liver improving our immune response and hormone balance  

Useful hacks to stay off alcohol

1.      Sound obvious – but if you find the temptation too hard to bear, avoid social situations where alcohol is present.  Suggest an alternative meeting point; coffee shop, walk and talk, theatre etc

2.      Avoid triggers within arms reach at home. Keeping bottles out of sight really does help to keep the urge out of mind

3.      Trick the brain by replacing the glass of beer /  wine with a non-alcoholic substitute; alcohol free beer / gin (avoid alcohol free wine, trust me there is yet to be a decent low sugar wine to hit the market). Tonic water with lime, Mother Root Ginger Switchel with soda or elderflower or lime with soda - make the drink enticing and attractive. Consider the glass you are going to drink from.  Making a switch is very effective at satisfying the habit of a drink, without having to reach for the alcohol. For a warm drink, explore the gorgeous array of herbal teas, a chamomile blend or night time tea are a perfect post dinner brew, which can aid digestion and support winding down to bed time. 

4.      Track your progress.  Free tracking apps help with accountability support. The apps help to celebrate your wins and monitor your progress. Seeing it build over time can be so rewarding.

5.      Practice stress management techniques to cope with stress instead of using alcohol; mindfulness, breathwork, exercise / yoga, a bath.

What are your favourite alcohol free alternative or activities this month, I would love to hear them.