How to navigate Dry (or maybe moist) January and avoiding/reducing alcohol

As we are working our way through January, here at ANON drinks we know the pressures that everyone will face when trying to reduce or avoid alcohol. 

Whether you are trying to reduce your alcohol intake, or eliminate it completely, we feel that the following advice from Emily Syphas at www.alcoholchange.org.uk will certainly help you navigate your way through Dry January.

1. Call ahead

If you are going out somewhere either for business or pleasure, then call the bar ahead of time and make sure they have some alcohol-free drinks options, or at least make sure you understand what their options are. Not only does this take away the worry about what you’re going to drink, but it also takes away that voice in your head which tells you ‘just have one’. 

2. Set yourself a ‘time limit or power hour’

If a situation seems like it might be a potential trigger for you to have a drink, but you really want to go, set yourself the goal of a ‘time limit or power hour’. Go for one hour, and if you aren’t having a good time after that or you’re feeling uneasy, give yourself permission to leave. 

3. Be the organiser of the event/dinner/meeting

Offer to organise the day or night’s plans. This way you could suggest a non-alcohol-related alcohol activity, or make sure that wherever you are going has a fabulous alcohol-free drinks selection. You are helping your friends by taking a task out of their hands and you can make sure that the destination is somewhere you feel comfortable.

4. Reframe your thoughts

Think of alcohol-free socialising as an adventure. A chance to explore a new part of you, a chance to make deeper connections and remember conversations, a chance to figure out exactly what you like and don’t like. 

5. Have an exit strategy

Know how you’re going to get home – whether it’s checking the nearest bus or tube stop, bringing a local taxi number with you or pre -booking transport. Having your route home planned stops you having to rely on anyone else and can help take the pressure off thinking you have to stay all night. The last thing you want is to be waiting around for a friend who has decided they want to stay out all night. An exit strategy allows you to socialise on your own terms.

6. Don’t be afraid to leave

You don’t owe anyone an apology, you don’t need to feel guilty, and you certainly don’t need to go into details. If you’re not feeling it, for whatever reason, you can leave – without feeling bad about it.

Emily Syphas is a Sobriety Empowerment Coach, Founder of community Sober & Social and host of the Sober Sips Podcast. 

Alongside this great advice we would also like to offer our own suggestions, most of which might sound quite straightforward, but nevertheless we think they might help.

1. Eat Healthy

Eating healthy doesn't mean you have to eat bland foods. There are plenty of delicious dishes that are low in calories and high in nutrients.

2. Drink Water

Drinking water keeps you hydrated and prevents dehydration. Dehydration causes headaches, fatigue, and muscle cramps. So drink lots of water throughout the day.

3. Stay Active

Staying active also helps prevent dehydration. Exercise increases blood flow, which helps flush toxins from your body. Plus, exercise burns calories, so you'll feel fuller faster.

4. Don't Overindulge

Don't overindulge yourself after eating a big meal. Eating too much food makes you feel sluggish and bloated. Instead, try having smaller meals throughout the day.

5. Avoid Alcoholic Drinks

Alcohol contains empty calories. It may make you feel happy, but it won't give you energy. Instead, either opt for non-alcoholic alternatives to your favourite tipple or perhaps alternate between the 2.

6. Be Mindful

Mindfulness is being aware of everything happening around you. When you're mindful, you can focus on the present moment. Being mindful helps you stay calm and relaxed.

7. Have Fun

Have fun with your family and friends. Enjoying life and ‘enjoying the moment’ is the best way to a positive mindset.

Summary

In closing, navigating through Dry January & Sober October and avoiding/reducing alcohol can be a challenging task, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can also be an opportunity for self-improvement and personal growth. At ANON Drinks, we understand the importance of finding alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages, which is why we offer a range of non-alcoholic spirits, such as Spiced Cane, Bittersweet Aperitif and English Garden, to help you achieve your goals. Remember to follow the advice provided by experts, such as Emily Syphas, and to take care of your physical and mental well-being by eating healthy, staying active, drinking water, and avoiding overindulgence. Lastly, don't forget to have fun, enjoy the moment and don’t feel guilty for leaving a situation that doesn’t feel comfortable for you. Remember that you are in control of your own choices and actions, and that choosing non-alcoholic options can be a positive step towards a healthier and happier you.