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Published: January 3, 2025 by Missie Hall
January 1st is the perfect time for setting new goals and improving our health and well-being. I mean we’ve all said the classic phrase ‘New year, new me’ right?
For many people, the new year encourages them to reconsider their relationship with alcohol. As a result, the infamous phrase ‘Dry Jan’ was coined. While it’s a great idea, the challenge can be tough, and when it doesn’t go as planned, it can leave us feeling disappointed. For a lot of people committing to a completely sober month can feel daunting, so why not try a “Dry-ish” approach?
Becoming more mindful with your drinking can be the perfect middle ground. It’s all about making intentional choices that align with your values, cutting back, and exploring alcohol-free alternatives. So, here are some tips to help you start the year with balance:
Top Tips for Mindful Drinking:
• Try New Alcohol-Free Drinks: With the rise of alcohol-free options, from spirits to craft beers to wines, there’s plenty to explore and a lot to love.
• Switch Up The Venue: Why not suggest to your friends to start meeting in coffee shops, parks, or other non-drinking spots.
• Set Limits: Before going out, decide how much you want to drink and stick to it. This can help you stay in control.
• Create New Drinking Rules: Set boundaries that suit your lifestyle and wants. For example you can create the rule of only drinking at the weekends or only at social gatherings.
• Be the Designated Driver: Everyone loves the designated driver. Being the DD keeps you alcohol-free and earns you some serious brownie points with your friends.
• Opt for Low-Alcohol Drinks: If you don’t fancy a completely alcohol free beverage, start choosing lighter drinks, like singles instead of doubles, or low-alcohol versions of your favourites.
• Track Your Drinks: Start tracking your drinks in your notes app! It’s a simple way to stay mindful and keep within your limits. You can then compare your weekly intake with the recommended guidelines to see how you’re doing.
• Try New Hobbies: A great way to cut down on drinking is by finding new hobbies. Stat exploring fitness classes, art workshops, or LGBTQ+ community events – activities that don’t revolve around alcohol.
• Plan Fun Activities for the Next Day: Having something exciting planned helps you limit your drinking and avoids the dreaded hangover.
• Try Sober Events: Try attending some sober events. If you love to boogie there are loads of sober raves and event waiting to be explored.
Are you ready to take the first step towards more mindful drinking habits? Join us for the LGBT Foundation’s Dry-ish January event! You’ll meet like-minded people, learn to make delicious alcohol-free cocktails, and see how a night out can be just as enjoyable without the hangover.
Let’s toast some nozeco to a mindful new year!
If you want to learn more about mindful drinking or are concerned about your alcohol intake, get in touch with us at recovery@lgbt.foundation for support.
