If you are considering trying your hand at Dry January in 2026, this is my plea for you to reconsider.

I'm not a big drinker, but a couple of years ago, I challenged myself to go without booze for the month.

The aim was to start my New Year on a fresh slate - leaning into my Resolution for the year of prioritising my health.

The result: I've never thought about alcohol more in my life. 

Dry January can be a financial and mental health reset . (PA)

Prioritising my health might sound like a vague goal, but it was designed to be no-pressure so I could still indulge in midnight McDonald's and lazy Sundays.

As I stopped drinking, I began therapy sessions, going swimming again, reading regularly and drinking daily smoothies.

The idea was to introduce small and manageable healthy habits into my life until they became a simple routine.

To cap it all off, I had to give Dry Jan a go for a full rest.

I've never tried the 31-day challenge before - but I did attempt Sober October at university (I lasted a spectacular grand total of 12 days).

Growing up, there was never alcohol in the house, and I continued this rule into adulthood in my own flat. 

I very rarely have a drink on a school night - reserving the occasion for catching up with friends I haven't seen in ages.

My clubbing days are very much in their twilight years, but every other weekend, I might enjoy an Aperol or two or three  to blow the cobwebs away.

The only time that I've felt........

© Oxford Mail