Time to reset your drinking habits
You don’t have to go full “Dry January”, but the new year offers a good opportunity to pause and think about alcohol.
Each January, many Australians embrace a “sober curious” trend by pausing or reducing their alcohol intake.
A refresh after holiday indulgence can bring more than just a clearer head; it can provide a physical and emotional reboot.
HealthDirect, the Australian Government health advice portal, recommends no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than four on any single day. (If that sounds like a lot, a standard drink is not as big as you probably think it is.)
Staying within these limits can significantly reduce risks to your liver, heart, and mental health. Even small amounts of alcohol are linked to an increased cancer risk.
Many may have already chosen to go completely alcohol-free for “Dry January”, while other have adopted a gentler “Damp January” approach. Both satisfy the need for a reset and help reshape drinking habits.
A New South Wales Health report notes that after observing a Dry January, about half of Australians reported improved sleep and more energy and felt healthier overall.
How can you make this resolution stick? HealthDirect suggests practical steps: counting drinks, alternating alcohol with water, having a meal before drinking, and simply saying “no” on occasions.
For some, tapering – gradually reducing intake – is smoother and safer than quitting abruptly. Others may find it empowering to take an extended break, be it in January or any other month.
An emerging strategy inspired by the workplace concept of “quiet quitting” means setting gentle boundaries. You could limit yourself to one glass occasionally, rather than living alcohol-free. This mindful approach supports balance without the pressure of total abstinence.
Embracing sobriety brings a range of emotional and social benefits. A break from booze can reduce stress and anxiety, deepen self-awareness, and boost self-esteem.
Couples and friendships often shine when free from the tension or regret that sometimes accompanies alcohol. “Sober curiosity” isn’t about cold turkey; it’s about choice.
Questioning your drinking habits can lead to better energy, relationships, mental health, and even finances.
By choosing to pause or reduce alcohol at the beginning of the year you’re doing more than following a trend. You’re recommitting to your wellbeing in a thoughtful, achievable way.
Small changes often lead to big results – so, whether you’re already taking a break from the booze, just slowing down after a hectic holiday season, or thinking about pausing for a while, this could be the perfect time to find your own healthier groove.
Related reading: Healthdirect, NSW Health
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