With so many new years resolutions being talked about as we approach the new year, an up and coming movement you may not have heard about is just around the corner.

What is it?

Dry January is a chance to challenge yourself to commit to no alcohol consumption for the entire month of January. It can be a powerful way to reflect on your relationship with drinking while enjoying benefits reported by many participants, such as better sleep, a brighter mood, and increased energy.

If you’re a social drinker and looking for some simple tips for navigating Dry January, here's a quick list.

• Before the start of the challenge, try to identify your reasons for choosing to go alcohol free in the first place. For example, is it to potentially improve your health or mood? Reminding yourself of your reasons can help you stay motivated and keep you going in the long run. 
• Know how you will politely decline when offered a drink in a social situation.
• When feasible, Invite your friends and family on the journey with you. Doing so can establish a stronger support system.
• Use this time as an opportunity to explore some great mocktail beverages and discover your new go-to drink. 

The good news is that now it’s easier than ever to participate due to the vast varieties of high-quality non-alcoholic beers and sophisticated mocktails on the shelf. Here are just a few alternatives you can find at Market Street. 

• Not Beer Sparkling Water
• Hiyo Mocktail
• Wildwonder
• Sutter Home non-alcoholic sparkling brut (0.5% ABV)
• Heineken 0.0% Non-Alcoholic Beer- 6 Pack Bottles

When It’s All Said And Done

Thinking about having a drink once Dry January ends? If you are, try to stay within the recommended daily limits set by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020-2025): One drink for women and two for men per day. One drink can look like a 12 fl oz beer, a 1.5 fl oz shot of liquor, or a 5 fl oz glass of wine. Just remember that these are maximums, not targets. Science shows that the less you drink, the lower your risk for certain conditions like heart disease and cancer, so staying mindful of every glass makes a difference.

Happy New Year! And if you do decide to take on the challenge, best of luck!