A fresh start, a clear mind, and a healthier you – that's what Dry January is all about.
Every year, millions of people worldwide take on the challenge of staying alcohol-free for the entire month of January. What started as a public health campaign in the UK has become a global movement – and for good reason. After the indulgent holiday season, Dry January offers the perfect opportunity to reset, reflect, and discover what life feels like without alcohol.
Whether you're looking to improve your health, save money, sleep better, or simply prove to yourself that you can do it – this guide will help you succeed.
What is Dry January?
Dry January is a challenge to abstain from alcohol for the entire month of January. It's not about judgment or permanent abstinence – it's about taking a conscious break and experiencing the benefits firsthand.
The campaign was launched by Alcohol Change UK in 2013, and since then, participation has grown exponentially. In 2024, over 9 million people in the UK alone participated, with millions more joining worldwide.
Why Take on Dry January?
The Health Benefits
Research shows that just one month without alcohol can have remarkable effects:
- Better Sleep Quality: Alcohol disrupts REM sleep. Without it, you'll wake up more refreshed.
- Improved Liver Function: Your liver gets a much-needed break to regenerate.
- Clearer Skin: Alcohol dehydrates the skin. Many people notice a healthy glow after just two weeks.
- Weight Loss: Alcoholic drinks are calorie-dense. Cutting them out can lead to noticeable weight loss.
- More Energy: Without the depressant effects of alcohol, energy levels naturally increase.
- Better Mental Clarity: Improved concentration and cognitive function.
- Reduced Blood Pressure: Studies show measurable improvements in cardiovascular health.
The Financial Benefits
Let's talk numbers: If you typically spend CHF 50 per week on alcohol, that's CHF 200+ saved in January alone. That's a nice vacation fund, a new hobby, or simply extra breathing room in your budget.
The Psychological Benefits
Completing Dry January gives you a sense of accomplishment. It proves that you're in control, not your habits. Many participants report feeling more confident and motivated to make other positive changes in their lives.
How to Succeed at Dry January: Practical Tips
1. Plan Ahead
Success starts with preparation. Stock your fridge with delicious alcohol-free alternatives so you're never caught without options. Having quality substitutes makes the challenge feel less like deprivation and more like discovery.
2. Find Your Alcohol-Free Favorites
The world of alcohol-free beverages has evolved dramatically. Today's options are sophisticated, complex, and genuinely enjoyable.
For Wine Lovers:
The Leitz Eins-Zwei-Zero Riesling offers crisp acidity and fruity notes that pair perfectly with meals. Oddbird Blanc de Blancs brings elegance and fine bubbles for special occasions. These aren't compromises – they're genuine alternatives that stand on their own merit.
For Spirit Enthusiasts:
Lyre's has mastered the art of replicating classic spirits. Their Coffee Originale makes an exceptional Espresso Martini, while their American Malt works beautifully in an Old Fashioned. You can enjoy all your favorite cocktails without the alcohol.
For Something Unique:
Copenhagen Sparkling Tea Company offers a category of its own. These sparkling teas have the complexity of wine, the elegance of champagne, and unique flavor profiles you won't find anywhere else. Perfect for when you want something truly special.
3. Navigate Social Situations
Social pressure is real, but remember: you don't owe anyone an explanation. Simple responses work best:
- "I'm doing Dry January."
- "I'm taking a break from alcohol."
- "I'm good with this, thanks."
Most people are supportive, and many will admit they've considered trying it themselves. You might even inspire others to join you.
4. Create New Rituals
If your evening wind-down routine involves a glass of wine, replace it with something equally pleasant: a high-quality alcohol-free wine in your favorite glass, a walk, a warm bath, or a new hobby. The ritual is often more important than the alcohol itself.
5. Track Your Progress
Use an app or journal to track:
- Days completed
- Money saved
- How you feel (energy, sleep, mood)
- Any challenges and how you overcame them
Seeing your progress in black and white is incredibly motivating.
Delicious Alcohol-Free Recipes for Dry January
The Perfect Alcohol-Free Aperitif
Sparkling Tea Spritz
Ingredients:
- 150ml Copenhagen Sparkling Tea (Bla or Lyserod)
- 50ml tonic water
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
- Citrus slice (lemon or grapefruit)
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
Fill a wine glass with ice, add sparkling tea and tonic water, garnish with herbs and citrus. Sophisticated, refreshing, and zero alcohol.
Alcohol-Free Negroni
Ingredients:
- 30ml Lyre's Italian Orange
- 30ml Lyre's Aperitif Rosso
- 30ml Lyre's Dry London Spirit
- Orange peel
- Ice cubes
Preparation:
Stir all ingredients with ice in a mixing glass, strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, garnish with orange peel. A classic cocktail, zero compromise.
Cozy Evening Mocktail
Warm Spiced Apple & Ginger
Ingredients:
- 200ml apple juice
- Fresh ginger slice
- Cinnamon stick
- Star anise
- Orange slice
Preparation:
Warm apple juice gently with spices (don't boil), pour into a mug, garnish with orange. Perfect for cold January evenings.
What to Expect: Your Dry January Timeline
Week 1: The Adjustment Phase
The first few days can feel strange, especially if you're used to having a drink most evenings. You might feel restless or find yourself reaching for a beer out of habit. This is normal. Stay busy, try new alcohol-free drinks, and remind yourself why you're doing this.
Week 2: The Breakthrough
Around day 10-14, most people report a noticeable shift. Sleep improves, energy increases, and the challenge starts feeling easier. You're finding your rhythm, and alcohol-free living doesn't feel like such a big deal anymore.
Week 3: The Momentum
By week three, you're in a groove. The benefits are undeniable – you're sleeping better, feeling sharper, and probably looking better too. Friends and family might start commenting on how well you look.
Week 4: The Victory Lap
You made it! The final week often brings a sense of pride and accomplishment. Many people find themselves thinking, "If I can do this, what else can I achieve?"
Beyond January: Making It Last
Here's something interesting: studies show that 70% of Dry January participants drink less even six months later. Many people discover they simply don't miss alcohol as much as they thought they would.
You don't have to choose between all or nothing. After completing Dry January, consider:
- Mindful Drinking: Only drinking when you genuinely want to, not out of habit.
- Dry Days: Designating certain days of the week as alcohol-free.
- Quality Over Quantity: Drinking less but choosing better when you do.
- Alcohol-Free Alternatives: Keeping your fridge stocked with quality options so it's always easy to choose alcohol-free.
Join the Movement
You're not alone in this journey. Millions of people worldwide are taking on Dry January 2025. Social media is full of support, tips, and encouragement. Use hashtags like #DryJanuary, #DryJanuary2025, and #AlcoholFree to connect with others.
Stock Up for Success
The key to a successful Dry January is having delicious alternatives readily available. Here's what we recommend having on hand:
- A variety of alcohol-free wines – sparkling, white, and red
- Quality alcohol-free spirits – for your favorite cocktails
- Sparkling teas – for something truly unique
- Mixers and garnishes – tonic water, fresh herbs, citrus
Final Thoughts: You've Got This
Dry January isn't about perfection – it's about progress. If you slip up, don't throw in the towel. Just start fresh the next day. What matters is the intention to change your relationship with alcohol, even temporarily.
The benefits you'll experience – better sleep, more energy, clearer skin, saved money, and a sense of accomplishment – are well worth the challenge.
And here's the best part: you don't have to sacrifice enjoyment. With today's incredible selection of alcohol-free alternatives, you can still have that evening ritual, celebrate special occasions, and enjoy sophisticated drinks – all without the alcohol.
Welcome to Dry January 2025. Here's to a clearer mind, a healthier body, and discovering what you're truly capable of.
Ready to start your Dry January journey? Shop our complete selection of alcohol-free wines, spirits, and sparkling teas. We deliver throughout Switzerland directly to your home.
