Why dry January
it's my first time... have you done it?
I don’t know what it is about this year, but I feel like dry January is all the rage. I didn’t choose it because everyone is doing it. It’s actually been a thought every January for the last several years.
I didn’t grow up with alcohol as a part of my life. In fact, I waited until I was 21 before trying it. It was one of those things that I honestly didn’t care for when I first tried it and in hindsight, maybe I should have left well enough alone. But as the years progressed and I got more and more interested in the food scene (and travel), I found myself exploring various cocktails and wines to pair with the food I was eating.
Drinking for me has really become something I enjoy and it is very rare that I ever over indulge (just isn’t worth it the next day). It’s a fun social activity and as I’ve grown more fond of red wine, I’ve enjoyed exploring all the different tastes and learning how they are made, how regions impact flavors, etc.
But since Covid, I’ve seen my frequency with alcohol grow. I was good for a long time to hold my glasses of wine for the weekend - maybe a special dinner out or grilling with friends. Then I started finding myself grabbing a glass or cocktail during the week - after a long day of work or on a work trip with colleagues. Then I started noticing that when we were out I’d have a cocktail with apps, a glass of wine with dinner, and an espresso martini with dessert. And what used to be a treat, started feeling like a habit.
I’m ashamed to admit that for the last two years I considered a dry January - but I honestly didn’t want to give it up for the whole month. This year, I don’t know what changed but I have craved the reset. And two weeks in, I haven’t missed it. It’s also made me grateful for seasons where I just say “no.” Not because it is bad or good - but because I can. Feels a little like a life metaphor to me? Makes me wonder, what else should I be saying “no” to. Curious, what do you think?