Damita Miller-Shanklin

Have you heard of the new thing to do in January? It involves no alcohol? Yes, you may have guess, it’s called Dry January. It officially became a thing in 2013 under the organization Alcohol Change UK. (Time.com)

I have not done Dry January because I’m not there yet. But I was curious about how it worked and what made people choose to do it. A friend of mine, Nikkia, has participated in the practice for the last 10 years. I was able to get her perspective about not drinking alcohol for one month. This is what she had to say.

Nikkia decided to participate in Dry January to give her body a reset and to get her workouts back on track after the holidays. I was curious about any health benefits she may have seen. Nikkia stated, “I have noticed a couple of health improvements. The first improvement is not having inflammation. I could see inflammation in my face in Christmas pictures. After a couple of weeks without alcohol, I no longer saw the inflammation. The second improvement is my sleep. I have not had any problems going to sleep or sleeping through the night.” Other things she has seen that she feels are related to Dry January is she achieved her daily water intake goal and meals out are not as expensive.

Nikkia has found the practice of taking a break for one month from alcohol to be really easy when you have a community to support you during Dry January. Her husband, as well as her friend group, are all on this journey with her. After a stressed day at work, she can admit it’s difficult not to have a glass of wine. So how does she handle not having alcohol when she meets friends for dinner? Since she tries to keep her sugar consumption at a minimum, in a social situation she typically orders sparkling water with mint and lemon in a wine glass.

So the big question is will Nikkia continue with Dry February? She says no, it’s Mardi Gras season, however, she is considering no alcohol for Lent.

Ujima friends, let’s be happy in our collective strength, resilience, and unity. Embracing this month of sobriety can be a powerful journey, while fostering personal growth. Here’s to ongoing health, empowerment, and the vibrant spirit that defines us—all year round…Together!

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