Dry January – swap your cocktails for mocktails!

It’s safe to say things are tough at the moment, and the thought of giving up one of life’s small pleasures for the whole of January might feel like the last thing you want to do right now. But taking part in Dry January is a great way to rest and reset your body and mind.

According to Alcohol Change and the Royal Free Hospital, there are lots of benefits of giving up alcohol for a month:

• 70% of people reported better sleeping habits.
• It can reduce blood pressure.
• Giving up alcohol for 30 days can lower cholesterol.
• 86% of people participating saved money over the month.

If you’re participating in Dry January 2021, but stuck for ideas when it comes to choosing a Friday night tipple, why not try one of our five favourite alcohol-free recipes?

• Mojito mocktail – for all you Mojito lovers – this is a lovely refreshing alternative!
• Apple, elderflower and mint sparkle – a simple, tasty drink that gives you a hydration boost too.
• Virgin long island iced tea – a classic cocktail loved by many, but heavy on the spirits. While this version doesn’t taste quite the same, it still has a good kick from the ginger ale.
• Sparkling Pom Collins – for lovers of Pomegranate this mocktail is sure to be a winner!
• Pear and rose punch – a lovely, fruity, alcohol-free punch to help you unwind at the weekend.

While the evenings are dark and cold, sometimes there’s nothing nicer than curling up on the sofa with a cup of tea. As an alternative, why not try this warming Chai tea recipe?

Not everyone loves a cocktail (or wants a cup of tea in the evening!), so luckily, alcohol free beers, spirits and wine are now widely available if you still fancy the taste of your favourite drink, without the alcohol.

Giving up alcohol for the month isn’t easy, especially given the current climate, but by taking part in Dry January you’re being kind to your body and mind.

If you’re already taking part, let us know how you’re getting on? What’s your alcohol-free drink of choice? We’d love to hear in the comments below!