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Welcome Dry (Dry-ish? Damp?) January 2024 Welcome Dry (Dry-ish? Damp?) January 2024

Welcome Dry (Dry-ish? Damp?) January 2024

Dry January Just Might Be Your Best Start to 2025

It's intention-setting season. Many of us set intentions for a healthier, more mindful year leading up to January 1st. Enter Dry January: a month-long break from alcohol that's become a global wellness movement. What started in the UK 11 years ago is now a widely practiced month of healthy drinking choices. But Dry January isn't about deprivation – it's about health. So if your January is simply Dry-er (you're cutting back on the amount of alcohol you drink), or maybe Damp (you're limiting drinking to a day or two a week), you're still "doing it". And you WILL reap the benefits. 

"What Happens When You're Not Drinking" Benefits You May Notice

The benefits of taking a break from alcohol kick in faster than you might think. Within the first week, many Dry January-ans report better sleep quality – waking up feeling genuinely refreshed. Your skin might look more "glowy" (goodbye, dehydration!), and on weekend mornings you  probably won't need "night after" recovery time so might find yourself with more opportunity for adventure.

And my favorite is an improved clarity of mind. Without alcohol, you may experience an increased ability to focus and a better mood. Plus, your bod benefits are undeniable – from improved liver function to better digestion and potentially even weight loss.

Dry January isn't About Missing Out

If you're reading this, you probably already know the mindful drinking culture is bursting with sophisticated alternatives that match and exceed traditional alcoholic counterparts in complexity and taste. From craft NA beers to functional booze-free options to non-alcoholic spirits, wines and proxies, and ready to drink offerings. You can pretty much have any flavor you're craving ... without the booze or side effects. 

Making the Most of Dry January

1. Lean into curiosity. Think of this as an exploring new options...not limitation. Are there ways other than drinking alcohol you can spend your time? What about groups or events you might attend? Maybe giving back or volunteering in a way that expands the healthy benefits you're gaining from not drinking? 

2. Stock up on quality alternatives. If you still want to have adult beverages, but no alcohol (or less alcohol), you can supplement your bar with so many fantastic options. If you're in Asheville, join an upcoming tasting or visit Nolo anytime to explore our curated selection of premium non-alcoholic wines, spirits, functionals, and beers. Everything we carry is een carefully selected, and throughout Dry January we're bringing new stock to the shop to broad ensure you're not compromising on taste or experience.

3. Find your community. Have a friend, colleague, or partner who is also participating in Dry January? Check in daily, and support each other by taking a weekly pulse on the benefits and the challenges you may experience. This is a global movement. You are not alone, and might even make NEW connections just by opening up about your own Dry January. 

Beyond January: And Then What?

Well, probably a more mindful relationship with alcohol. What that means to you is personal...but taking a month to adjust your alcohol intake mindfully will probably also give you some takeways that ... last. You might keep on incorporating alcohol-free days into your week, or you may just notice you've lowered your intake more permanently because you're liking what's happening to your mind, body, and spirit when you do. 

No matter your version of Dry January, we're here to support you. In Asheville? Come by the shop to see what's new on the shelves or plan to attend a Saturday Free NA tasting and try something new (or a few somethings)! You just might taste your new favorite drink.

If you're not local to Asheville, but want recommendations, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram - we love helping solve the puzzle of "what will I like"!

We're rooting for you ... and remember, you're not alone! Opening up about your Dry January plans will likely help you find your community and support system. If you can find a way to work it in to your conversations...do! You'll have even more fun if you're doing Dry/Drier/Damp January with a friend or two (or three!). 

Cheers to YOU from your fans at Nolo - 

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