If you've been curious about mindful drinking or wondering what a break from alcohol could do for your physical and mental health, Dry July offers a low-pressure, high-impact opportunity to find out. As someone who ditched the wine and found peace on the other side, I can tell you: 30 days can change more than you think.
Here are five surprising benefits many people experience when they take a break from alcohol, even just for a month:
1. Deeper, More Restorative Sleep
Even one or two drinks can disrupt your natural sleep cycles. Without alcohol in your system, your body enters REM sleep more easily, which means you wake up feeling truly rested. Many people report feeling more energized and focused after just the first week of going alcohol-free.
2. Clearer Skin and Brighter Eyes
Alcohol is dehydrating and inflammatory, and heavy use can impact facial aging. After a few weeks without it, your skin may appear more hydrated and your eyes a bit brighter. Think of it as your natural summer glow—no filter needed.
3. Boosted Mood and Reduced Anxiety
Alcohol may feel like it "takes the edge off," but it actually increases anxiety over time. Removing it helps stabilize your mood, reduce emotional crashes, and improve overall mental clarity. Many of my clients are surprised by how much calmer and more grounded they feel after just a couple of weeks.
4. Greater Self-Awareness and Empowerment
When you're not reaching for a drink to cope, you start to notice your patterns, triggers, and emotions with way more clarity. That self-awareness? Total game-changer. Whether you're looking to cut back or go fully alcohol-free, this kind of insight helps to build resilience, confidence, and a deeper connection with yourself.
5. More Presence in Daily Life
From beach days in La Jolla to farmer's markets in Little Italy, San Diego is made for living life all the way in. But alcohol can dull the shine. Taking a break—even just for July—helps you show up with more energy, presence, and joy.
How to Prep for Dry July in 3 Easy Steps
Thinking about joining Dry July but not sure where to start? Here's how to set yourself up for success with intention not perfection:
1. Set Your "Why"
Before the month begins, get clear on your motivation. Are you curious about how alcohol affects your mood, sleep, or energy? Are you craving a reset? Write down your reason and keep it somewhere visible so it can be your anchor when the social pressure hits.
Pro tip: Tie your "why" to something you love about summer in San Diego: sunny hikes, beach mornings, or slower evenings with your kids.
2. Stock Up on Alternatives
From zero-proof mocktails to kombucha and sparkling waters, have your favorite non-alcoholic drinks ready to go.
Strawberry Basil Fizz
A refreshing, alcohol-free mocktail that's perfect for sunny afternoons, weekend BBQs, or winding down after a beach day.
Ingredients:
4–5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3–4 fresh basil leaves
Juice of ½ lime
1 tsp honey or agave (optional)
Ice
Sparkling water (or try a botanical mixer from local alcohol-free bottle shop Monday Morning AF)
Optional garnish: basil sprig or lime wheel
Instructions:
- Muddle the strawberries, basil, and lime juice together in a shaker or glass. Add honey or agave if you like a little sweetness.
- Fill your glass with ice, pour over your muddled mix.
- Top with sparkling water—or get fancy with a zero-proof botanical spirit.
- Stir gently, sip slowly, and enjoy!
3. Find Your People
Support changes everything. You're way more likely to stick with it when you've got a crew that gets it. Check out one of San Diego’s growing sober-friendly spots (yes, they exist!) or join in a local sober-curious social club.
Make it fun! Turn it into a challenge with friends, set a reward for the end, and cheer each other on.
Pro tip: Want guided support, check-ins, and real conversations? Join the Try Dry July Bootcamp and make this summer your most intentional one yet.
You Don't Have to Be "Sober" to Try Dry July
Dry July isn't about labels or perfection. Be curious, not critical. Dry July is a judgment-free experiment, not a test. It's not about being perfect; it's about learning what serves you best. It's simply about exploring what life feels like without alcohol, and giving your body and mind a chance to reset.
Let this be the summer you come home to yourself.
About the Author
Stephanie Brislin is an alcohol-free coach and founder of The Life Within Coaching. She's been alcohol-free since 2020 and helps others navigate stress and self-discovery without relying on wine.
Learn more at thelifewithincoaching.com or follow along @coachstephaniebrislin on Instagram.
