Pro Tips for a Successful Dry January

After an over-indulgent holiday season, we’re ready for a reset at the start of the new year. Whether that be with fresh intentions and goals for the year ahead, or a renewed focus on wellness, cutting back on alcohol in January is a great way to kick off the new year feeling present, refreshed, and centered.

Participating in Dry January doesn’t mean missing out on the social events or the fun typically associated with drinking. Non-alcoholic spirits mimic the ritual and social aspect of drinking without negative effects like disrupted sleep, empty calories, and hangovers. Here are three popular tips to set yourself up for a successful month of going dry.

1. Plan Ahead:

• Take inventory: Clear out any remaining alcohol in your home to avoid temptation.
• Stock up: Purchase a variety of non-alcoholic beverages you enjoy, such as sparkling water, herbal teas, fruit juices, mocktails, or specialty non-alcoholic beers and wines.

2. Rethink the way you drink

Functional alternatives to alcohol offer a sophisticated way to indulge in the ritual of a traditional cocktail without negative effects on your health. Hemp-infused spirits offer a more natural way to unwind and are a great option for those looking to experience a gentle, calming sensation akin to that nightly glass of wine. For moments of revelry and those looking for a social lubricant during gatherings, try a non-alcoholic spirit infused with adaptogens designed to stimulate and elevate mood.

3. Experiment with Flavors:

Look for mocktail recipes or create your own by mixing different juices, flavored syrups, and garnishes. Venture beyond the familiar and experiment with unique flavors or ingredients.

4. Start a new ritual

Replace alcohol habits by designating a specific time in your day to enjoy a non-alcoholic drink. This can help replace the habit of having an alcoholic beverage. Develop a relaxing evening routine with herbal teas or alcohol-free nighttime beverages to signal the end of the day.

5. Find your tribe

Having a support system is one of the best ways to ensure success when trying something new. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals cultivates a positive environment that ensures everyone’s mutual success. Recruit a friend or family member to partner with you on going dry for a month and enjoy a strengthened bond and new-found common ground.

6. Find Distractions

Keep yourself occupied with hobbies or activities that you enjoy and that don’t involve alcohol. Physical activities not only distract but also release endorphins, helping you feel good without alcohol.

7. Reflect and Reward:

Keep a journal to note how you feel physically and emotionally throughout the month. Celebrate milestones!

Reward yourself at the end of the month for completing the challenge. It could be a nice dinner, a spa day, or something you’ve been wanting to buy.

8. Seek Support if Needed:

Online communities: Join forums or groups where people are also participating in Dry January. Sharing experiences can be motivating and supportive.

If you find it challenging to stick to your commitment or face withdrawal symptoms, seek guidance from a healthcare professional or counselor.

9. Explore Functional NA Spirits:

Aplós Calme, for example, offers a gentle calming, uplifting sensation instead of alcohol’s hangovers and health issues. Infused with hemp and crafted for moments of unwind, Calme features a layered, botanical flavor profile, and work well in complex cocktails, or paired with dinner.

Aplós Arise is a functional spirit crafted to put you at ease in social settings. Infused with adaptogens and crafted for moments of revelry, Arise offers an herbal citrus profile with notes of agave flower, lemon verbena, and black sarawak peppercorn.

Most importantly, though, Aplós spirits are a way to replace alcohol without feeling like you’ve been deprived of that reward at the end of the day or the indulgence of a cocktail with friends.

Remember, the goal is to use this month to reset and reassess your relationship with alcohol, so be kind to yourself throughout the process. Enjoy discovering new flavors and experiences with non-alcoholic drinks!