She Strengthens

A Sobering Experience: How Abstaining from Alcohol Transformed My Life

This year, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery by participating in Dryuary, a campaign that encourages individuals to abstain from alcohol for the entire month of January. Inspired by my dad and sister, I decided to take the challenge and see how it would impact my life.

Rethinking My Relationship with Alcohol

Dryuary is more than just a temporary abstinence from alcohol; it’s an opportunity to reassess our relationship with this popular substance. As someone who has struggled with anxiety, I was curious to see how giving up alcohol would affect my mental health and overall well-being.

The Financial Benefits

The first noticeable change was in my social life. Without the expense of alcohol, my “social” budget plummeted from $250-$300 per month to a mere $109.32. While being unemployed contributed to my frugality, cutting out alcohol made a significant difference in my bank account.

Social Situations: Not as Daunting as I Thought

I was surprised to find that abstaining from alcohol in social situations wasn’t the hardest part of the challenge. In fact, it became a fun experiment to find alternative beverages to enjoy. Whether it was a non-alcoholic ginger beer on a date or a sparkling water and lime with friends, I discovered that not drinking didn’t have to be boring.

Mental Clarity and Awareness

The most remarkable change, however, was in my mental health. I found that I was more resilient in stressful situations, and my overall sense of presence and awareness was heightened. I communicated more effectively, experienced deeper emotions, and had more energy throughout the day. My sleep quality also improved, with fewer restless nights.

Uncovering the Root of My Cravings

The most insightful discovery was that I only truly craved alcohol when I was anxious or upset. This realization prompted me to be more mindful of my motivations for drinking and to make more intentional choices about when and why I consume alcohol.

A Lasting Impact

Completing Dryuary was a liberating experience that has inspired me to be more thoughtful about my relationship with alcohol. I’m excited to see if I can replicate this success next year and continue to grow from this experience.