Alcohol is a regular guest in social situations, especially at parties. If you don’t drink, it’s assumed you’re not having any fun. Dry January was born to disrupt this concept and bring alcohol consumption back to pleasure rather than an obligation. It’s a test that consists of trying to abstain from alcohol consumption for the duration of the month and see how one’s body responds. Compounded by the preceding month of the holidays, in which the number of toasts increases exponentially, it’s a good idea to detox and start the year off with more energy and better health. In fact, it’s not the usual challenge born on TikTok, but rather a movement started in 2012. And now, in 2026, it might be interesting to try to change habits and consume less alcohol, once you know about all the benefits that can bring you.
What Dry January is and how it came about
‘Don’t think about what you give up, but what you gain from the experience‘ is the slogan of the campaign to raise awareness against alcohol-related harm, promoted by Alcohol Concern, now Alcohol Change UK: a British charity and activist group that started in 2013 and promoted Dry January. If the first problem that comes to mind when reading Dry January is “but then how do I go about my social life,” you are already looking for an excuse.
When Emily Robinson, a girl with the goal of preparing for a marathon, decided to embark on a total alcohol detox for the month of January in 2012 and speak publicly about it to international newspapers and media, it ignited a journey that led to more and more people wanting to participate. The real value of dry January, however, is not in getting a badge of honour or a certificate of superiority, but introspection and body mapping to understand how it works and to know your body better.
Health benefits of Dry January
For the brain
The effect of alcohol on the brain is initial euphoria followed by slowing down and difficulty with coordination. This happens because it acts as a central nervous system depressant, interfering with neurotransmitters and impairing balance, language, memory and judgment in the short term. Dry January ensures:
- Better sleep quality which means more stable memory and concentration
- Reduction in hangovers and anxiety
- Mood regulation
- Increased clarity in thought
For the heart and blood pressure
Alcohol alters the autonomic nervous system and causes an electrical imbalance in the heart, which can lead to palpitations, arrhythmias and even classic “hangover” tachycardia. Even after quitting drinking, an increase in resting heart rate can occur the next morning and up to 24 hours later. What really changes when you eliminate (or reduce) alcohol?
