The dry January expert reveals how to drink during the pandemic

Alcohol sales were through the roof in 2020, as Americans Brits, Australians and more spent time loading (or at least taking the lead).

But the coronavirus pandemic is not over yet – and our bodies can only carry so much extra wine and tequila.

Enter Dry January, which may sound like a better idea in 2021 – but may also feel a much tighter commitment.

For those determined to give it a try, FEMAIL spoke with Hilary Sheinbaum, author of ‘The Dry Challenge: How to Lose the Booze for Dry January, Sober October, and Any Other Alcohol-Free Month’, who shared her best tips to take a break from drinking, even if you are all day, every day.

“There are so many benefits to doing a dry January – or any other dry month,” including better sleep, improved digestion, increased energy, brighter skin and an overall sense of accomplishment, “Sheinbaum said.

“You also save a lot of money if you do not buy expensive cocktails and bottles of liquor and wine,” she adds.

Americans have certainly spent a lot on alcohol over the past year, with online sales rising like never before. A report by the market research firm IWSR found that sales of alcohol in the US in 2020 would amount to about $ 5.6 billion, up from 80 percent over the previous year.

Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain and the United Kingdom have also received a boost in liquor e-commerce.

‘More than in previous years, 2020 had so many lows and created a lot of tension and uncertainty. “A lot of people drink more at home and at different times of the day,” Sheinbaum said.

“After a crazy year, we could all make a fresh start: we feel well rested, energetic and have a few extra dollars in the bank.”

In her book – which features a Laguna Beach star Lo Bosworth star – Sheinbaum shares the benefits of giving up alcohol, recipes for non-alcoholic cocktails, and even non-alcoholic activities.

Here she gives her best advice to remember while the world is still in the grip of a pandemic.

Remember: out of sight, out of mind

Anyone who has ever had a diet knows that it is a recipe for failure to have delicious snacks in public. The same goes for the contents of your liquor store.

“While working at home, you will probably notice bottles of wine, liquor or beer as you pass your bar cart or open the fridge,” Sheinbaum explained.

If your goal is to give up everything along with alcohol, throw everything down the drain or give it to friends.

If you’ve just given it up for the month, look for a place to hide your bottles and cans. It’s OK if you know it’s still there; as long as you do not have to see it every day, you are less likely to drink it.

“You can simply keep your alcohol out of sight or give it to a friend to keep for 31 days,” she said.

Gather your sober support team of the sober month

Misery likes company.

“Even if your friends do not see you in person during quarantine, you can suggest a group activity: do not drink together,” Sheinbaum suggests. “Having other people in a shared goal is not only motivating, but it holds all parties accountable.”

It can also be comforting to think with friends about how much you would like a glass of pinot grigio – and how much you miss Saturday nights at your favorite bar.

For the purpose, find things that are fun but do not hold drinks.

“If you are hanging out with friends, family or a partner, you can think of things to do in person without alcohol,” Sheinbaum said.

Looking for something to look forward to

One reason why so many of us drink after quarantine is … well, what else was there to do?

But instead of drinking out of boredom, now is the time to think outside the box for ways to stay busy and entertained.

“The pandemic does not cater for galas or parties, but you can still get creative with fun ways to use your time,” Sheinbaum said.

In addition to streaming platforms for movies, you can embark on a new workout, learn how to cook or develop recipes (wine without cooking), renovate your home, or reorganize your closet.

‘And if you’ve already been quarantined, search online for virtual events to keep you busy with what’s happening in your state, city, and even your own neighborhood.

Find another drink that feels special

It’s not just the loudness you give up when you take a break from alcohol: it’s also the taste of your favorite drinks.

Sheinbaum suggests replacing your drink after work (or during work) with a non-alcoholic drink that is still delicious.

“If you’re a beer drinker, there are brews without alcohol, including IPAs, naughty and more,” she said.

“If you feel creative or are looking for a classic cocktail, you can mix your own with different types of non-alcoholic beverages and other ingredients without ABV,” she adds.

Her book contains recipes for non-alcoholic cocktails, and Pinterest is filled with fun ideas.

Motivate yourself with a reward

“You will derive mental and physical benefits from cutting out alcohol for 31 days, but finally looking forward to something can also be motivating,” Sheinbaum said.

“Because you will save money throughout the month, you can raise your hard-earned cash and promise to buy yourself something you watched during the month (or maybe even before).”

Promise yourself on January 1st something that ‘feels like a treat’ that you will get as a prize on February 1st, but try not to make it alcohol.

“When your dry month is over, buy it, or book it and celebrate!”