My Dry January Journey
A Lesson in Prioritizing Rest, Hydration, and Discipline
As January came to a close, I took a moment to reflect on my experience with Dry January—and the takeaways were more impactful than I expected.
Rest and Recovery: A Clearer Path to Energized Mornings
One of the most profound changes I noticed was the ability to truly prioritize rest. I hadn’t realized how much my evening glass of wine was actually stealing from my sleep. Whether it was staying up to finish the last sip of wine (especially when I had already spent $25 on the bottle) or heading to bed while my liver processed the alcohol, I often woke up feeling less than refreshed. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been able to establish a consistent wake-up time, and it’s been incredibly refreshing. I feel more in tune with my body’s natural rhythms and energy levels—something I didn’t even realize I was missing before.
Hydration Over Hindsight
As someone who already struggles to drink enough water, I know how alcohol makes this issue even worse. On February 1, I went to a winery, but instead of reaching for a glass of wine, I felt no desire other than to drink water. As a fitness professional, I know how crucial it is to stay hydrated and healthy, and I recognize that alcohol does not serve that purpose. Dry January reminded me that staying hydrated is a non-negotiable part of my well-being—and something I’m actively committed to improving.
A Sobering Reality Check
I initially embarked on this journey after reading recent studies linking alcohol consumption to various types of cancer. Although I don’t classify myself as someone with an alcohol problem, I think it’s important to regularly check in with ourselves. Dependencies can creep up on us, often without us even realizing it. Dry January was a reminder to double-check my relationship with alcohol and ensure I’m living in a way that aligns with my health and wellness goals.
Closing Thoughts
While Dry January has officially come to a close, the lessons it taught me will stick around much longer. It’s about more than just taking a break from alcohol; it’s about being in tune with my body, listening to its needs, and making choices that support my overall well-being. For anyone considering trying something similar, I highly recommend it—not just for the physical benefits, but for the chance to reflect, reset, and develop a deeper level of discipline and awareness.
