Have you decided to take on the challenge of Dry January? If so, congratulations – you’re halfway there! Dry January is a great way to start the year off on the right foot. Studies have shown that participants are consistently able to avoid binge drinking in the 6 months that follow, and you’ll also be able to reap the physical and mental health benefits of teetotal living. On the other hand, it’s easy to feel you are missing out on the fun. The good news is that there are plenty of activities that can be just as enjoyable and fulfilling without alcohol. And just because you abstain from alcohol, doesn’t mean you have to abstain from celebration! Here are seven Dry January ideas to get you started.
Learn the art of mocktails. Just because you’re going dry doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious drink at a fun event. In fact, many people find they prefer the taste of mocktails without the alcohol. How about a delicious salted caramel white Russian? Or, if you like a fizzy gin and tonic, swap it out for a fruity sparkler, garnished with the same botanicals you might normally add to your gin. If you’re craving a warming drink, try a mulled ginger and apple instead of cider or wine. There are so many great recipes online, so get mixing!
Take up a hobby. One of the great things about Dry January is that, once you create the mental space for it, sometimes you rediscover passions and interests that you have neglected or never found the time to explore. There are lots of great hobbies you can try, such as crafting, ceramics, photography, knitting, or gardening. Start a blog, write a book, or paint a masterpiece! This is your chance to express yourself in a new way.
Do a puzzle. During the pandemic, lots of people turned to puzzles as a way of passing time at home. The great thing is that they’re good for couples or families, or on your own! It might not sound very exciting, but you’ll be surprised at how engrossing it can be.
Get fit. One of the best Dry January ideas is to use your newfound free time to get into shape. Whether you opt for a gym membership, attend yoga classes, or just take a few walks around your neighborhood, exercising has plenty of health benefits that can help you stay fit and motivated throughout the month (and on into the rest of the year).
Take a trip. One of the best parts of sober living is the amount of money you’ll save. So why not use that extra cash to take a mini getaway to somewhere new. Whether you’re flying to a new city or taking a road trip to the beach, trips are a great way to explore the world and make great memories.
Host an alcohol-free party. Invite your friends over for an alcohol-free evening. With a few fun activities like board games, card games, or charades, as well as delicious food, you’ll have a great night. Best of all, it’s one that no one will forget!
Take a class. Why not use your month of sobriety to learn something new? Take a class on drawing, cooking, sewing, French, or any skill that interests you. Not only can it be fun and rewarding, but it also looks great on a resume!
Celebrating in January, dry or not, can be equally as great of a time!
xoxo,
Mindy
