Are you participating in Dry July this year?  We all know the importance of Giving Your Body a Break From Alcohol on a regular basis.

Dry July is a month-long initiative where participants abstain from alcohol to raise awareness and in some instances funds for a great cause. It is a great opportunity to be part of a “community” that has supportive initiatives that can have positive outcomes.

However, jumping straight into abstinence on July 1 might not appeal to everyone, so we have come up with some practical and mental ideas to help you get ready:

1. Set Clear Goals and Intentions

Understand Your Why: Reflect on why you’re participating. Whether it’s for health reasons, to support a good cause, or to challenge yourself, knowing your motivation will help you stay committed.

Set Specific Goals: Decide if you’ll go completely alcohol-free or allow yourself some flexibility, such as participating only on weekends or special occasions.

2. Inform Your Social Circle

Tell Friends and Family: Let them know about your commitment so they can support you and understand your decision at social events.

Find a Buddy: Consider finding a friend to join you in Dry July. Having a partner can provide mutual support and accountability.

3. Plan Your Social Activities

Alcohol-Free Events: Plan activities that don’t revolve around alcohol. This could include movie nights, hiking, coffee meetups, or exploring new hobbies.

Alternative Drinks: Stock up on non-alcoholic beverages like Buds & Beads Sparkling Teas, non-alcoholic wines, and herbal teas. This ensures you have something enjoyable to drink in social settings.

4. Prepare for Cravings and Temptations

Identify Triggers: Be aware of situations where you typically drink and plan how to handle them. This could involve avoiding certain environments or having a strategy for saying no.

Healthy Alternatives: Find activities that can replace the act of drinking, such as exercising, reading, or cooking.

5. Educate Yourself

Health Benefits: Research the benefits of not drinking alcohol, including improved sleep, better mental clarity, and potential weight loss. This knowledge can help you stay motivated.

Support Resources: Look into resources and communities dedicated to Dry July or alcohol-free living. Online forums, support groups, and apps can offer additional support. Here are some of our favourites:

@dryjuly, @soberawkward, @neurolab

6. Plan for Fundraising (if participating for charity)

Set Up a Fundraising Page: If you’re raising money for cancer support, set up your fundraising page early and share it with your network.

Promote Your Efforts: Use social media and other platforms to promote your participation and encourage donations.

7. Monitor Your Progress

Keep a Journal: Document your experiences, noting any challenges and how you overcame them, as well as any positive changes you notice.

Celebrate Milestones: Reward yourself for sticking to your commitment. Plan small rewards for weekly achievements to stay motivated.

8. Reflect and Plan for the Future

Post-July Plans: Consider how you want to approach alcohol consumption after Dry July. Reflect on what you’ve learned and how it has impacted you.

By preparing mentally, socially, and practically, you can increase your chances of a successful Dry July and make the experience enjoyable and fulfilling.

Good Luck xx