dry february
Dry February, round 2. This will be my second year in a row completing dry February. Like many people, I enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail on the weekend to unwind from the Monday to Friday, 9 to 5 grind. I also take pleasure in the culture around crafting cocktails and often try new recipes I see on TikTok or Instagram. However, it is very easy for alcohol to become a habit rather than a once in a while treat. Not to mention all of the information surfacing lately about the detrimental effects it can have on our long term health and well-being. Committing to a dry month is a refreshing change of pace that offers an excellent opportunity to get creative with mocktails, give our bodies a healthy break and even donate to worthy causes.
My profile on the Dry Feb website benefitting the Canadian Cancer Society.
In 2023, I wanted to do a dry month and I saw a sponsored post on Instagram for Dry Feb benefitting the Canadian Cancer Society. I signed up and was able to raise almost $300 to donate all while holding myself accountable to completing my dry month. It felt really fulfilling to fundraise for a cause that means a lot to me and my family while fostering a good habit that benefits my health. I slept better that month than I usually do, I felt more present with those around me at social gatherings and I didn’t suffer from anxiety related to thoughts of the less favourable effects of alcohol on my body. Other notable benefits were my sensitive skin feeling less dry, my body feeling better and a reduction in my overall anxiety levels.
As someone who has experienced anxiety in varying degrees throughout my life I can say that although alcohol may help calm my mind and allow me to relax in the moment, I notice a distinct uptick in my overall anxiety levels for at least 2-3 days post alcohol consumption. This onslaught is two fold; the first wave comes as intrusive thoughts about the negative effects of alcohol on my body and trouble sleeping. The second comes the following morning as generalized anxiety pervading my consciousness for days later. Eliminating these effects is my first motivator for doing an alcohol-free month.
This year, I have been focusing more on my health and fitness, putting more effort into reducing my sugar intake and eating mindfully. I have also been going to the gym more frequently, primarily lifting weights, running/walking on the treadmill and practicing yoga. Alcohol contains a substantial number of calories and whether it is a glass of wine or a gin and tonic, that beverage come with a high sugar ticket. I am looking forward to seeing how cutting out alcohol affects my experience while working out, my recovery time as well as potentially allowing for more visible results.
Aside from my mind and body feeling better when I do not consume alcohol, I get to indulge in my love of crafting cocktails by experimenting with mocktails. I have found a few that I really enjoy which I will share throughout the month of February to provide some inspiration for anyone who is also completing a dry month, chooses not to drink or is just curious about exploring mocktails. The two that I have been going for the most lately are the Amaretto Sour and the White Linen. I have actually never had an alcoholic Amaretto Sour but after having a non-alcoholic version I don’t even know that I need to (its that good).
There are many benefits to limiting or eliminating alcohol from your life. A spirit here and there can add a layer of fun and relaxation to an evening, helping us to come out of our shell or unwind after a long day. However, there is so much benefit and growth to be found in continually challenging our habits, beliefs and routines. Asking ourselves why we do what we do and stepping outside our comfort zones to gain some perspective. I know that so far I have been met with the most fulfillment from the journeys that demanded the most of me. My fitness and health journey has been one of the most challenging because it demands consistency and self discipline on a daily basis. I am the only one holding myself accountable to going to the gym, eating well and drinking enough water. This month I am eliminating alcohol in an ultimate goal of better understanding my relationship with alcohol and hopefully coming down to a healthier lifestyle filled with daily habits that enrich and add joy to my life.
All of this to say, I completed Dry Feb last year and it was a very rewarding experience overall. I could choose just any month but I find it even more fulfilling to do this in combination with raising money for a cause near to my heart. I also got my parents in on it this year so we can all support each other in healthier habits. I look forward to indulging in mocktails, experiencing better sleep and feeling more energetic overall. Challenges like this are a great way to hone self discipline, strengthen the mind and do something good for thebody. Here’s to February being a month full of fun and sticking to the goals we set for ourselves.
Click the image above to donate to my fundraiser.