Not Just A Fad: The Benefits Behind A “Dry” Month Of Sobriety

“Dry January,” “FebFast,” “Dry July,” and “Sober October.” Whatever you call it, “dry” months, or months dedicated to reducing or abstaining from alcohol, have gained popularity in recent years. These catchy names are more than just a fad; they challenge people to take a break from alcohol for a month to explore the benefits of being free from alcohol. Besides giving your liver a break, the benefits from abstaining from alcohol are wide. Let’s explore why you may want to try a sober month and the benefits it can bring.

What Exactly Is A “Dry” Month?

“Dry” months are a series of 28-31 days where a person refrains from alcohol and commits themselves to remaining sober for an entire month. Some of the most popular times to complete a “dry” month are after the winter or summer holidays. 

Dry January starts the new year with a month of no alcohol, allowing a person to recenter and start the new year with a fresh start. FebFast is another great month for people to try out a sober lifestyle with a shorter commitment time (28 or 29 days). Dry July, first made popular in Australia to help raise funds for cancer research, is a great way to achieve your health goals while giving back to others. Sober October, popular in the United Kingdom, also combines fundraising for health charities with achieving personal health goals. 

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No matter which month you choose to explore a “dry” lifestyle, you will reap the benefits.

What Are the Benefits of A “Dry” Month?

• Physical Health Benefits
  Eliminating alcohol consumption for any period of time helps to decrease the risk of liver disease, improves your cardiovascular health, helps your digestion, and can lead to body changes such as weight loss and hormone balance. Additionally, it may lead to better sleep, leaving you refreshed and ready to take on the day.

• Mental Health Benefits
  The benefits go well beyond physical improvements. Decreasing your alcohol intake can help to reduce anxiety and depression. Furthermore, mental clarity improves which can lead to increased productivity in your work and personal life.

• Charitable Giving
  Some “dry” months have an element of social giving and fundraising. You, along with millions of other likeminded individuals, can raise money for charitable causes such as cancer research and other health charities, focused on improving the lives of others. When you join others in a common movement, you have a built-in support system and a way to share your experiences with others around the world. 

• Padding Your Financial Wallet
  Let’s face it, alcohol can be expensive! Whether you enjoy cocktails at a fancy restaurant, beers at a dive bar, or a bottle of wine in the comfort of your own home, alcohol expenses add up. Using the money saved on alcohol towards your savings goals or other investments can lead to better financial habits.

• Personal Growth
  A month of abstaining from alcohol can lead to a tremendous amount of self-improvement and self-reflection. A lot of discipline and willpower can be required to partake in a “dry” month, and a sense of achievement at the end of the month can build confidence and self-esteem.

Why Should I Consider A “Dry” Month?

Choosing to participate in a “dry” month is a very personal decision and everyone has their own reasons for doing so. It can be a way to reset your body, mind, and spirit, especially after a time of increased drinking like around the holiday season. It can also help you jump start new healthy habits, whether it’s at the beginning of the year or mid-year and challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and test your willpower. 

A ”dry” month is a great way to reset yourself and adopt new healthy habits. Participating in a “dry” month offers multiple benefits that can improve your physical and mental health, improve your financial savings, develop personally, and even give back to your community through charitable means. No matter the time of year you choose to participate, a period of abstaining from alcohol can bring new healthy habits and be a transformative experience!