The Benefits Of Going Dry: Why Men & Women Should Try Dry January

Welcome to January, the beginning of a new year, and also the beginning of a new challenge for many individuals - Dry January. Dry January (or Dryuary!) is a month-long challenge in which individuals abstain from alcoholic beverages. This challenge has been gaining popularity over the years, with almost 4 million people attempting it in 2020. It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can have negative effects on the human body, but what are the benefits of abstaining for a month? In this article, we’ll share with you the benefits of going dry and how it can positively impact your life.

Better Sleep & Increased Energy

One of the main benefits of not drinking alcohol is that your body gets better sleep. Drinking heavily can disrupt your sleep patterns, which can leave you feeling groggy and tired the next day. According to the National Sleep Foundation, alcohol exerts its most substantial effects during the first part of the sleep cycle, making it difficult to get a full night's sleep. By participating in Dry January, you can expect to see a significant improvement in the quality of your sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed and alert. Going dry can also boost your energy levels, as alcohol is a depressant that can leave you feeling sluggish. Give your body the rest it needs and you’ll find yourself feeling more rested and renewed! 

Improved Mental Health

Alcohol can also have a negative impact on your mental health. It’s a depressant that can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and it can make it difficult to combat stress. Going dry can lead to improved mental clarity and a decrease in anxiety levels. You may notice improvements in your mood, from feeling more relaxed and calm to being able to handle stressful circumstances better. Many people will also find their mood is lifted and they can focus on tasks better after a month of not drinking. 

Improved Physical Health

Cutting back on alcohol can lead to significant improvements in your physical health. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to high blood pressure, liver disease, and other health problems.

Several organs work to break down alcohol, including your stomach and pancreas. But, your liver bears the biggest burden of processing alcohol and excessive drinking can lead to a fatty liver. There is evidence that it’s reversible when you abstain from alcohol or even drink less, so a month off from drinking can give your body the chance to recover and reverse some of these negative effects. Dry January won't necessarily erase all the damage from having a few too many wines but it's a great start! 

Weight Loss

Alcoholic beverages are high in calories, with a small glass of wine totalling as much as 150 calories and a pint of beer over 200 calories. Having just a couple of drinks a day can contribute to weight gain, and that's without taking into account the extra calories that are often consumed when you have a hangover, with many of us guilty of guzzling fizzy drinks and eating fry-ups the following morning! Taking a month-long break from alcohol can help you to shed some pounds and slim down. This might inspire you to continue living a healthier lifestyle overall too! 

Clearer Skin

Alcohol consumption can dehydrate your skin, making it appear less healthy and vibrant. It can often lead to puffiness, dry patches and dark circles. When you stop drinking, your skin will be able to re-hydrate, leaving you looking and feeling more refreshed. In fact, you could well see the same beauty benefits from those products you spend a lot of money on, simply by allowing your skin to rehydrate and rejuvenate properly. 

Financial Benefits

Drinks can be expensive, and alcohol is no exception. A month of not drinking alcohol can save you significant amounts of money, and you can put this savings into other parts of your life, such as savings accounts, paying off debt, or treating yourself to something special. It can also help you re-evaluate your relationship with alcohol and whether it’s worth the cost. Try going dry this January and see how much less you spend in your grocery shopping or on a night out! 

Strengthening Your Relationships

Lastly, going dry can strengthen your relationships with others. Alcohol can sometimes cause tension in relationships, whether it’s through drinking too much and saying or doing something you regret, or simply not being fully present due to the effects of alcohol. Taking a break from drinking can give you the chance to connect with others on a deeper level, and really enjoy their company without the crutch of alcohol.

Dry January - Are You In? 

Dry January can be a healthy experiment for men and women to participate in for various reasons. With improved mental health, better sleep, clearer skin, weight loss, improved relationships and financial benefits, it's a win-win situation. Many people, especially those conscious about their health, could benefit significantly from taking a break from alcohol.  If you want to give it a try, we recommend setting a goal and finding support from friends or family. You might be surprised at how good you feel after a month of abstaining from alcohol. Give your body and mind a chance to reset and start the year off on a positive note. Happy Dry January!