Damita Miller-Shanklin

I don’t know about you, but I had not heard about the concept of Dry January before last year..  But once I understood what it was about, it seemed to be a great opportunity to think about your alcohol intake and to make a change. 

Dry January is a public health campaign that encourages people to abstain from alcohol for the entire month of January. It aims to promote healthier habits, raise awareness about the effects of alcohol consumption, and offer a reset after the holidays. Participants often experience benefits such as improved sleep, better focus, and cost savings.

Last summer, I spoke with Chris Marshall, the owner of Sans Bar. It is a unique establishment dedicated to providing a non-alcoholic social environment located in Downtown Austin. This concept was born from Marshall’s personal struggles with alcohol and a desire to help others facing similar issues. His journey to sobriety and community work led to the founding of Sans Bar in 2017. Marshall found people wanted to stop drinking but didn’t know where to go. They missed the camaraderie of socializing but needed a different environment. The became a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their relationship with alcohol.

Sans Bar is more than just a business; it’s a movement toward healthier, more inclusive social environments. “We know alcohol is harmful, and we’re creating spaces that promote well-being and connection without it,” Marshall concludes.

Those of you who are participating in Dry January, tag us and let us know how you are doing and if you see improvements in your health. We want to hear from you. 

To read more of Chris Marshall’s story about the Sans Bar go to https://bit.ly/4jifOLu