Living Wildly Well

“Dry January”, “Sober-ish”, “sober-curious”, have you heard these going around? The idea even made it into a recent apple news headline. So…

What is Mindful Drinking?

Mindful drinking means being aware of your choices around alcohol. It prompts you to ask yourself why, how, and when you’re drinking. This practice encourages you to pause and think before reaching for a drink. For many, this leads to healthier habits that allow enjoyment in social settings while maintaining control over your well-being.

Mindful drinking does NOT require total abstinence. Instead, it helps you evaluate your drinking habits and make choices that align with your fitness and health goals.

Benefits of Mindful Drinking

Adopting mindful drinking can bring numerous advantages:

1. Clarity of Mind: Reducing alcohol intake can significantly improve mental clarity. Research shows that even moderate drinkers experience a 20% increase in focus and productivity when they cut down on alcohol.
2. Better Physical Health: For those who track heart rate, you’ll see a pretty big impact from drinking. Resting heart rate goes up and heart rate variability goes down. Whoop recently shared their end of year data, and members averaged an -16% recovery after drinking. It also disrupts sleep, likely adding to the negative number.
3. Enhanced Social Experiences: Mindful drinkers often realize that positive social interactions become more fulfilling. Engaging in conversations without the fog of alcohol helps relationships thrive.
4. Increased Self-Awareness: Mindful drinking allows you to identify your triggers and motivations. Acknowledge when you’re reaching for a drink out of habit or stress, not true desire.

Tips for Kicking Off Your Dry January

Are you ready to embrace mindful drinking this January? Here are practical tips to get started:

Set Clear Goals

Define your objectives for Dry January. Are you planning to completely abstain from alcohol, or do you prefer to focus on moderation? Setting specific goals provides direction and motivation. For instance, you may commit to no alcohol on weekdays, aiming for greater clarity during the week.

Explore Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

There are finally easily accessible and delicious non-alcoholic beers, spirits, and mocktail options. For example, brands like Heineken and Athletic Brewing Company offer non-alcoholic beers with a taste comparable to their alcoholic versions. Experimenting with these alternatives can make social events more enjoyable, and you might find a new favorite drink. I will be releasing an ebook in January if you are looking for some great recipes!

Keep Busy

Fill your schedule with engaging activities unrelated to drinking. Consider trying out new hobbies or fitness classes. A recent survey showed that 60% of individuals who filled their leisure time with activities other than drinking reported reduced cravings and greater social enjoyment.

Practice Mindfulness

Integrate moments of mindfulness into your daily routine. Whether through meditation, yoga, or simple deep-breathing exercises, reconnecting with your body can enhance your awareness of drinking habits. Even a 5-minute break during your day can help ground you.

Join One of the #DryJanuaryReset Tracks Here!

Four lovely ladies, including myself, are hosting a #DryJanuaryReset on Instagram, and I hope that you’ll join us! But you don’t have to be on Instagram to choose to Live Wildly Well, do it on your own or grab a friend to join you. If you are looking for some guidance on how to set up the month long challenge for yourself, I have three “tracks” that you can choose from here.

• Track One: The Classic Dry January
  • In this track, you’ll focus simply on staying alcohol-free for the month, and that is enough!
• Track Two: Adding Mindfulness and Movement
  • If you are ready to go a little deeper, set yourself up for weekly movement goals as well.
• Track Three: All-In for Transformation
  • You’re looking for a traditional January fitness challenge to really push yourself. You’ll get a point for each day that you log the healthy habits of:
    • staying alcohol free
    • yoga practice
    • cardio session
    • strength training
    • mindfulness
  • Add one point each week for following at least 80/20 of your healthful eating goal.
  • Subtract five points if you give in a have a drink.
  • Aim for 18-20 points per week- an amount that is challenging but achievable for YOU!

Making it Sustainable

After Dry January, how do you maintain a mindful approach to drinking?

Reflect on Your Journey

At the end of the month, take time to evaluate your experience. What insights have you gained about your relationship with alcohol? Many people find they feel healthier and more energetic, which can reinforce a commitment to change.

Create a Support System

Sharing your journey with friends or joining our sober curious group here and on Instagram can provide encouragement and camaraderie. Having supportive individuals around you can tremendously empower you to stick to your goals.

Continue to Educate Yourself

Knowledge can transform your decisions. Keep learning about the effects of alcohol on your body and mind. Research indicates that informed decision-making leads to healthier lifestyle choices.

Celebrate Achievements

Remember to celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. Acknowledge your commitment to mindful drinking and reward yourself in ways that contribute to your wellness.

Embracing Your Mindful Journey

As you embark on your mindful drinking journey this January, recognize that there’s no single path to follow. Discover what suits you best while respecting your health goals. A sober curious lifestyle can lead to long-lasting positivity, not just this month, but for years to come.

So, are you prepared to kick off your Dry January and unlock the benefits of mindful drinking? The choice is yours, and a rewarding journey of self-discovery and improved health awaits. I hope that you’ll join us!