It’s been a challenging two years, and if you live in Ontario, you are probably disheartened with the news of another lockdown.  Additionally, there have been significant hits to the economy, job losses, school disruptions, loss of loved ones, an overburdened health system, cost of living increases, and disagreements regarding vaccines.

There is no surprise that alcohol consumption has sharply increased during the pandemic, and in conjunction with the usual holiday increase, we may be drinking more than we usually would.  In the spring of 2020, sales in the U.S. increased 34 per cent.  In Canada, 24 per cent of alcohol users are drinking more than they did before the pandemic, according to a survey conducted in May.  Source

Dry January is a public health campaign to abstain from alcohol for the month of January, and perhaps taking this break is something to consider if any of this sounds familiar.  

The idea for Dry January is an initiative of Alcohol Change U.K., that started in 2013.  It campaigned with the promise that, post-holiday, revellers could “ditch the hangover, reduce the waistline and save some serious money by giving up alcohol for 31 days.”

Dry January can seem trendy; however, it is harmless and benefits your health.  Since our social lives often revolve around alcohol, going without can be challenging.  Maybe you habitually drink a glass of wine with dinner, have a drink at the end of the day, or when you are with your friends.  Or maybe you’ve developed a habit of drinking to numb feelings of sadness and anxiety.  Over time, these habits can add up and impact your health, relationships, and finances. 

This is a perfect time to abstain since social gatherings and dining out have been nixed for the next few weeks in Ontario.  Taking this break can help you assess your relationship with alcohol as we tend to drink more than we realize. This step back might help you discover how much you drink and what your drinking patterns are.  

Health Benefits

Dr. Roy Buchinsky, Director of Wellness at University Hospitals in Ohio, said some of the first things his patients report during a Dry January is noticing improved sleep and mental health.  While many people think a drink can help you relax to sleep, consuming alcohol before bed has been found to interrupt REM sleep. With improved sleep, patients found they had more energy and became more active. Cutting out alcohol can also help reduce other health issues and diseases like diabetes, cancer, liver and heart disease.

If you are dealing with alcohol dependency, you should not suddenly abstain as acute alcohol withdrawal can cause severe medical complications. Ensure that you are connected to the appropriate medical supports.

What to drink instead?

I live in Prince Edward County, the home of over 40 wineries, 12 breweries and more than 6 cider houses.  I’m surrounded by temptation.  I certainly have my moments of overindulgence, but also regularly take long breaks from drinking, even at social gatherings.   I enjoyed plenty of outstanding red wine in December.  I drink lots of water and tea regularly, but sparkling water does the trick if I want to decrease my alcohol cravings, and I’ve been drinking lots of it since January 1st.  Experiment and have some fun making non-alcoholic drinks.  Try mocktails, kombucha, flavoured iced tea and coffee.   

Whether you’re eager to try Dry January or simply want to lessen your pandemic drinking habits and reap some health benefits, give The Dry Challenge a chance.  This month, focus on recovering from December’s overindulgence, find healthier approaches to unwind and new ways to socialize when things open up again.  

Be well. 

Anita

DISCLAIMER; The information provided on County Yoga Loft’s website blog is for general health care informational purposes only. All information on the site is provided in good faith. However, it should not replace consultation or advice from a physician and/or other healthcare practitioners. The use or reliance of any information contained on this site is solely at your own risk.