While the world was busy pouring champagne into those dangerously fragile flutes, I was popping the cork on something a little different: a commitment that promises no hangovers, no regrettable restless nights, and the possibility of boundless energy in the New Year.

That’s right, Dry January kicked off for me last night, because why wait until the groggy haze of January 1st to embrace the awesome benefits of going alc-free. The best way to ring in the new year is fully conscious—and let’s face it, nothing screams “2025, I’ve got plans for you” like making it to midnight without slurring “Don't stop believin’, Hold on to that feelin YEAH!!”

This month on BuzzFreeBrews, I’m going all-in: 31 days of dry reflections, favorite non-alcoholic drinks, and the occasional existential ponderings that come with being conscious of life in all its beauty and pain. (Spoiler: It’s both thrilling and mildly terrifying.)

Why Start Early?

Because New Year’s Eve is peak chaos. It’s the Super Bowl of bad decisions, the World Cup of “sure, one more drink won’t hurt.” It’s empowering to flip the script. Instead of starting the year foggy and dehydrated, I rang in the New Year with Humm Kombucha and Athletic Brewing’s Atlética, while throwing dance moves some might describe as interpretative yoga.

Whether you rang in the new year with a celebratory drink, or so many you forgot to keep count, why not join me? It doesn’t matter if you’ve been planning this for weeks or just decided at this very moment, Dry January is open to everyone. It’s never too late to start, and it’s definitely never too early to quit drinking (even if it’s just for a little while). This month is a chance to reset, recharge, and maybe even discover a new favorite drink that doesn’t come with a side of regret.

Dry January: A Stepping Stone to Mindful Drinking and Sober Living

Romina Boccia

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December 24, 2023

As you head into the heart of the holidays including a possibly booze-filled NYE celebration, let’s talk about a topic that’s as bubbly as champagne, but without the hangover - Dry January! 🍾

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What to Expect This Month

• Non-Alc Beverages You’ll Actually Want to Drink
  I’ve scoured the shelves and taste-tested everything from hoppy IPAs (no booze, all flavor) to canned mocktails that put the "buzz" in BuzzFreeBrews. There’s so many interesting concoctions out there, you won’t miss the hard stuff.

• Reflections on Sobriety That Aren’t Preachy
  This isn’t about shame or guilt—it’s about celebrating how good it feels to wake up without a headache and tackle the day like the adulting superhero you are.

• "Laughs, Light-Hearted Rants, and the Occasional Plan Gone Astray
  Because if I’m going to give myself an eye infection from being too lazy to remove my mascara before bed, you deserve to hear about it. (This actually happened to me right before Christmas—thanks to experimental science for amoxicillin or I’d be learning braille right now!) Plus, I’ll share mindful gathering tips to keep the vibe fun, inclusive, and buzz-free.

The Twist You Didn’t See Coming

Here’s the kicker: Dry January is secretly fun. Shocking, I know. Without alcohol, I’ve discovered things like the unbridled joy of clear-headed early morning writing rituals, the thrill of not waking up in the middle of the night battling my demons, and the ultimate power move: getting way more done every day.

A friend, who committed to joining me for Dry January last night, said “the first time you turn down that drink is the hardest”—like getting your first bikini wax. But once you get through that, it’s a lot easier... like smooth shaving."

So, join me today for a month of clarity, humor, and beverages that don’t require aspirin to survive the next day. Let’s show 2025 who’s boss—one non-alc sip at a time.

Cheers,
Mina, Creator, BuzzFreeBrews