2024
DRY JANUARY
A Handbook for Surviving January 2024
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FRESH POURS, FRESH STARTS DAY BY DAY YOUR DRY JANUARY CALENDAR
NEW YEAR, NEW FLAVOURS
KICKSTARTING DRY JAN - YOUR ESSENTIALS GUIDE ZENO TELL US WHY THEY CHOSE LOW AND NO
WELLNESS IN EVERY SIP WITH HAELU
THE CRAFT BEHIND CLAUSTHALER
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LETS GET ON TRACK CRAFTING SUSTAINABILITY FROM FARM TO GLASS
CREATING YOUR DRY JAN ACTION PLAN
TOP DRINKS RECOMMENDATIONS
NONTOX DOES DRY JANUARY A HANDBOOK FOR SURVIVING JAN 2024
Meet our Team LISA JOHNSON
NonTox Founder, taste testing expert and keeper of the cabinet of curiosities!
LEANNE WAITE Marketing Whizz, lover of RTD’s and self proclaimed bossy britches!
LAURA EDWARDS AKA Logistics Laura is our implementation person - and gets things from idea to your screens! 2
FRESH STARTS FRESH POURS Embracing a New Beginning: The Power of Dry January
As the festive season winds down and the New Year rolls in, many of us look for ways to reset and fresh. As members of the NonToxicated community, we especially stand at the threshold of an empowering opportunity: Dry January. This month-long journey is more than a simple resolution; it’s a profound commitment to renewal and self-discovery. For those who have chosen a low or no alcohol lifestyle, Dry January offers a chance to reaffirm and celebrate this choice, while for others, it’s a doorway to exploring the benefits of reduced alcohol consumption.
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Dry January isn't just about cutting out alcohol; it's a gateway to a more mindful, healthier lifestyle that can influence your choices throughout the year. Whether it's to improve health, save money, or simply challenge yourself, the benefits of this sober month can be profound and lasting. Let's uncork the potential of participating in Dry January together!
Team Tox x
Day-by-Day: Your Dry January Calendar So it’s 2024, it’s a new year. Now what?
BY LAURA EDWARDS
December was a hub of activity, busy-ness and hopefully merriment. It’s easy to leave that time feeling exhausted, worn out and unenthusiastic - or at least that is how I feel right now! January is pregnant with possibility and the opportunity to seize the potential of fresh starts and new beginnings. A time to reset, refresh and renew our commitments - to ourselves, to our health and to our wellbeing. Dry January presents a perfect opportunity to do this. However, it can also be pressured, and full of a lot of “what now?” and “how do I keep this up?” That being the case - and because I am keenly aware of these challenges, I have set about creating a calendar of things to sink your teeth into, so to speak. I am thrilled to introduce "Day-by-Day: Your Dry January Calendar." This specially designed calendar is a companion for your journey. Each day offers a unique task, or a minichallenge, thoughtfully curated to keep you engaged, inspired, and on track. Whether it's trying a new nonalcoholic beverage, writing down your thoughts and reflections, or exploring a new hobby, these daily prompts are designed to enrich your Dry January experience.
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You can take as much - or as little of these suggestions for things to do this month as you like. Rejig the days to suit your own schedule and use this calendar as an opportunity to do new things, explore, and use January not just as a month of being alcohol free, but also as a time of self discovery. If you are embarking on a sober journey, it can be challenging yet rewarding time. The goal with this calendar is to make each day of Dry January meaningful and enjoyable, helping you to discover the joys and benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. It is here to support you every step of the way. So, let's turn the page together on this new chapter. Embrace each day of January with curiosity, enthusiasm, and the comforting knowledge that you're part of a supportive community sharing this journey with you. Here's to a transformative month ahead!
New Year
New Flavours Myth Sundowner: Redefining the Evening Ritual with Alcohol-Free Elegance
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As we journey through Dry January, we introduce you to a captivating range of alcohol-free options that promise to elevate your experience: Myth Sundowners. These innovative drinks, part of our Dry January Handbook, offer a sophisticated and enjoyable alternative for those embracing a sober lifestyle, ensuring that you don't miss out on the ritual and pleasure of a relaxing evening drink. Embodying the Mission of Myth At the heart of Myth is the mission to create great-tasting, fun cocktails that are alcohol-free. These drinks are designed to be straightforward yet delightful, suitable for any occasion. They are versatile in use, able to replace white or dark spirits in almost any recipe, ensuring you can enjoy your favourite cocktails in a non-alcoholic form.
A Tale of Two Sundowners: Dark Myth Rum Sour & White Myth Margarita Dark Myth Rum Sour:
White Myth Margarita:
This drink is a masterful creation blending the essence of a traditional rum sour with an alcohol-free twist. The Dark Myth Rum Sour is infused with subtle cherry notes, offering a taste reminiscent of the classic Calypso New Fashioned. Its richness is best enjoyed served short over ice, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a deeper, more intense flavour profile.
Reimagining the beloved Margarita, this sundowner swaps tequila for the White Myth, creating a unique blend of coconut and watermelon flavors. Served in a long glass over plenty of ice and garnished with a little lime, the first sip greets you with the zesty kick of salt, mirroring the experience of a traditional Margarita.
Calorie-Conscious and Convenient: Both Myth Sundowners are mindfully crafted, containing only 99 calories per can, with each can making two servings. This thoughtful approach ensures you can enjoy these delightful beverages without compromising your health goals. For the best flavour experience, let them sit for a minute or two after opening – this allows the intricate flavours to fully develop. Joining the Dry January Movement with Myth: As you navigate Dry January, Myth Sundowners are here to accompany you on your journey, offering a sophisticated and enjoyable alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or hosting a sober get-together, Myth provides a premium choice that aligns perfectly with a mindful, alcoholfree lifestyle. Myth Sundowners are more than just drinks; they represent a lifestyle choice that prioritizes wellness, enjoyment, and inclusivity. As part of your Dry January experience, we invite you to explore these delightful options, proving that a month without alcohol doesn't mean a month without pleasure. Let Myth guide you through a flavorful journey this January and beyond. 7
a t r s t k i n c i K Dry January: Your g D
Essential Guide
ry January is a public health campaign that started as a public initiative by the UK-based charity Alcohol Change UK in 2013. The challenge is simple: abstain from drinking alcohol for the entire month of January. It's an opportunity to reset your relationship with alcohol, observe how your body and mind feel without it, and perhaps reassess your drinking habits in the long term. The Benefits of Dry January Improved Health: Many participants report better sleep, more energy, and weight loss. Giving your liver a break can also improve liver function and decrease blood pressure. Mental Clarity: Without the fog of alcohol, you might find your mood and mental clarity improving, leading to increased productivity and focus. Financial Savings: Alcohol can be expensive. You might be surprised at how much you save by cutting out those trips to the bar or alcohol purchases. Better Habits: Dry January can help in forming healthier habits and finding alternative ways to relax and unwind without relying on alcohol. Increased Self-awareness: This month could be a revelation in terms of understanding your body's needs and your relationship with alcohol. Tips for Getting Started 1. Set Clear Intentions: Understand why you're doing Dry January. Is it for health reasons, to break habits, or maybe a personal challenge? Clear intentions will keep you motivated. 2. Plan Alternatives: Stock up on non-alcoholic beverages you enjoy. Herbal teas, mocktails, and sparkling waters are great substitutes. 3. Engage with a Community: Whether it’s in the NonTox Facebook group or friends taking up the challenge with you, having support makes a difference. 4. Stay Busy: Plan activities that don’t involve drinking. Hiking, cinema trips, or exploring a new hobby can keep your mind off alcohol. 5. Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to log your feelings and achievements throughout the month. Celebrate small milestones. 6. Be Mindful of Triggers: Identify situations that prompt you to drink and find ways to navigate them. This might involve changing your routine or finding new ways to relax. 7. Reflect and Learn: Use this time to reflect on your drinking patterns and what you’ve learned about yourself. 8
Zeno tell us why they chose Low and No Wine trade veterans David Hodgson & Will Willis noticed the potential of the NoLo segment in 2018, where beer & spirits were gaining ground, however wine was lagging behind. “We wondered why nobody was making alcohol free for enthusiasts & set about researching if & how it could be done. Three years later, after exhaustive research & trials with our partner winery and our dealcoholisation partner, ZENO - Prestige alcohol-liberated wines launched in December 2022.” Zeno’s first release wines all took awards at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, the Global Wine Masters Competition, the World Alcohol Free Awards and Great Taste Awards; which underpinned a commitment and passion for quality and a new enhanced collection of alcohol-free wines.
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n l e l e Win every sipss “health, good fortune and material prosperity”
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AELU, ancient Anglo-Saxon word, from which our word ‘heal’ evolved. It means health, good fortune and material prosperity and was seen as a power or gift that could be passed onto others. HAELU was like a life-force, a kind of personal power which kept a person safe and granted them various abilities, including the capacity to heal others. When thinking of a name for our drink packed with vitamins, minerals and adaptogens, HAELU was the perfect fit. HAELU comes in two award winning flavours. Salerno Spritz is a classic Italian Spritz, with citrus and rhubarb aromas. Havana Heat is an ode to a sultry Cuban evening – smoky, with a subtle spice. But HAELU is more than just taste. Our added functional ingredients have been specifically chosen for their recognised ability to help you feel good, and to give your body and mind a much deserved boost. HAELU is also gluten free, vegan friendly and we don’t add any sugar. We have also kept the calories low, with 75 calories in a can of Havana Heat, and 78 calories in Salerno Spritz. What do they do? These functional ingredients are recognised for their ability to boost your energy levels, reduce stress and anxiety and improve your general well- being. We selected them for their ability to give you feel good vibes. B-vitamins are great for boosting energy and supports the production of the essential happy hormone Serotonin, while vitamin D is essential for your bones and muscles. Iron reduces fatigue and magnesium is good for your brain and body while also boosting your mood. Ashwagandha, lemon balm, 5-HTP and l-theanine are adaptogens. Adaptogens have been used since ancient times for their stress relieving and relaxing effects. They work with the body to balance our system. So, if you are stressed, they will help you to relax and if you’re tired they can give you an energy boost. You will also sleep better after drinking HAELU - the blend of l-theanine with lemon balm especially promotes this. 10
What's in HAELU? Every serving of contains a blend of 7 vitamins (B&D), minerals (Iron & Magnesium) and adaptogens (ashwagandha, lemon balm, 5-HTP & l-theanine). How many servings of HAELU do I need to benefit? We are often asked how many servings of HAELU will be required before feeling the benefits. Everyone is different, but most of us will feel relaxed and chilled after 3 HAELUs!
If you want to combine great taste with wellness in every sip, stock up on HAELU this Dry January. We are offering a 20% to Non-Toxicated readers! Just use the code WELLNESS20 at checkout
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The craft behind Clausthaler Redefining Non-Alcoholic Beer with TimeHonored Brewing Traditions
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s we embrace Dry January, it's time to explore some of the most innovative and delightful options in the nonalcoholic beer world. Enter Clausthaler – a brand that's not just a beer, but a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation. Let me take you on a journey through the heart of Clausthaler and why it could be your go-to choice this sober month. A Story of Innovation and Excellence Born in the charming town of Clausthal-Zellerfeld, Germany, Clausthaler has been pioneering the non-alcoholic beer scene since 1979. What sets Clausthaler apart is its dedication to maintaining the soul of beer. It's not just about removing alcohol; it's about enhancing every other aspect that makes beer so enjoyable. The Art of Controlled Fermentation Clausthaler's mastery lies in its unique controlled fermentation process, a groundbreaking technique that manages to keep the alcohol content below 0.5% while retaining the authentic beer taste. This isn't just brewing; it's a fine art. The care taken in ensuring that each sip delivers the full-bodied flavor of traditional beer is what makes Clausthaler a frontrunner in the non-alcoholic beer market. Award-Winning Flavors for Every Palate Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the non-alcoholic waters, Clausthaler has something for everyone. The Clausthaler Original is a timeless classic, delivering the crisp taste of German brewing tradition. For those who love a bit of adventure, the Dry Hopped variant, with its balanced malt character, offers a refreshing and aromatic lager experience. And for the fruit lovers among us, the Grapefruit and Lemon Radler variants blend Clausthaler’s hoppy lager with vibrant citrus, creating the perfect thirst-quenching drink.
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Why Choose Clausthaler This Dry January? Imagine enjoying a beer that not only tastes great but also aligns with your health-conscious lifestyle. Clausthaler’s range offers a guilt-free option, perfect for those looking to cut back on alcohol without compromising on taste. And let's not forget the environmental commitment; choosing Clausthaler is a nod to sustainable brewing practices. Your Invitation to Discover Clausthaler As part of our NonToxicated community, we understand the importance of finding joy in what you drink, even when it’s alcohol-free. Clausthaler stands as a beacon of quality and taste in the non-alcoholic beer category. This Dry January, why not explore the rich, nuanced world of Clausthaler? For those intrigued, Clausthaler Dry Hopped is available nationally at Waitrose, and the full range awaits on Ocado.com. Discover why Clausthaler isn’t just a beer; it’s a testament to the beauty of non-alcoholic brewing. Cheers to a flavourful Dry January!
Let's Get on
Track A
s you embark on this transformative path, having the right tools can be a gamechanger. Today, we want to introduce you to three incredible trackers that could become your daily companions, helping you navigate and celebrate your progress! Why Use a Sobriety Tracker? Embarking on a sober journey is a personal and profound experience. A sobriety tracker can: 13
Help maintain focus on your goals. Offer a tangible way to see your progress. Provide space for reflection and self-awareness. Act as a motivational tool on challenging days. Serve as a personal record of your journey and achievements.
Whether you’re just starting or are well into your alcohol free journey, trackers can play a key role in your process...
Whether you’re just starting or are well into your sober journey, these trackers can play a vital role in your process. They are not just tools; they are companions in your journey towards a healthier, more mindful life. Remember, every entry is a step forward in your journey.
1. Fuck This Shit Sobriety Journal: Sober Diary, A Guided Daily Sobriety Journal, Health Tracker, Recovery Sober Tracker Find it here This journal is for those who appreciate a dose of candid humour along with their daily reflections. It's more than just a diary; it's a guided journey through your sobriety. The "Fuck This Shit Sobriety Journal" offers a refreshing and relatable approach to tracking your health, progress, and emotions. Its guided prompts help you explore your relationship with alcohol, track milestones, and manage daily challenges in a way that's both supportive and straightforward.
2. Sobriety: Journal and Tracker Find it here "Sobriety: Journal and Tracker" is a beautifully crafted tool that serves as a gentle daily reminder of your commitment to sobriety. This tracker is a blend of practicality and inspiration, offering spaces for daily reflections, goal setting, and tracking your progress. Its thoughtful layout encourages you to ponder your motivations, victories, and lessons learned, providing a structured yet flexible framework for your sober journey.
3. Sobriety Tracker Notebook Find it here The "Sobriety Tracker Notebook" is a fantastic tool for those who prefer simplicity and clarity. It's designed to help you keep a clear record of your sobriety journey, offering a straightforward way to mark your sober days, track your feelings and triggers, and note down any strategies that help you stay on track. This notebook is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a no-frills, focused approach to their sobriety tracking.
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Craf ti
ity bil
s t u a S i na g n
From Farm-to-Glass At Mahala Botanical we take pride in crafting an exceptional alcohol-free spirit that goes beyond the ordinary. We talk about Farm to Glass as our unique point of difference.
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Natural Ingredients We source local & authentic ingredients with a low carbon footprint using carefully selected botanicals that are mostly sourced from farms in the Western Cape of South Africa. We use indigenous organic Honeybush & Buchu and select native and traditional botanicals which means we can support local biodiversity and preserve cultural heritage.
We never compromise on quality or authenticity using 100% Natural Botanicals & Extracts. Gluten-Free & Vegan-Friendly Certified: We care about catering to diverse dietary needs, and our certifications provide confidence to those seeking gluten-free and vegan options
'Farm-To-Glass' Spirit Our hands-on approach allows us to oversee every step, from sourcing the finest botanicals to crafting the spirit, bottling it, and labelling the product, ensuring 100% quality and authenticity. Transparency in Sourcing & Quality Control: we are really proud about our sourcing practices and quality control measures and continue to value what our customers find important when making their ethical and sustainable alcohol-free choices.
BOTTLING
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FIRST DISTILLATION We produce a high proof spirit in house through fermentation and distillation in our custom-built vacuum stills
BOTANICAL MACERATION We prepare our botanicals and macerate them in our base spirit under vacuum for 48 hours.
PRODUCE WATER We produce neutral water on site and add to our macerated botanicals inside our second vacuum still.
SECOND DISTILLATION We remove all the alcohol by running a cold distillation in our custom-built batch still.
THIRD DISTILLATION We turn off the cooling and distil our alcohol-free product
BOTTLING We hand bottle and label each bottle at our distillery
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Creating Your Dry January Action Plan E Embarking on Dry January is an exciting and empowering journey, but like any worthwhile venture, it benefits greatly from a well-thought-out plan.
An action plan not only sets the stage for success but also provides a roadmap to navigate the challenges ahead. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you craft your Dry January strategy. Step 1: Define Your Goals Start by asking yourself what you hope to achieve with Dry January. Are you looking to improve your health, save money, or perhaps challenge your self-discipline? Setting clear, specific goals gives you a target to aim for and a reason to stay motivated. Remember, these goals should be personal and meaningful to you. Step 2: Prepare Your Environment Your environment can significantly influence your journey. Prepare your home by removing alcohol or storing it out of sight. Stock up on appealing non-alcoholic alternatives like herbal teas, sparkling waters, or non-alcoholic wines and beers. Creating an environment that supports your goals is key to making your journey smoother.
Step 3: Plan for Triggers and Challenges Identify situations, places, or emotions that might trigger the desire to drink. This could be stress, social events, or even certain times of the day. Develop a plan for how you’ll handle these triggers. This might mean having a go-to non-alcoholic drink, practicing stress-reduction techniques, or finding new ways to socialize. Step 4: Build a Support System Share your goals with friends and family who can offer support. Join online communities, forums, or local groups participating in Dry January. Having people to share your experiences, challenges, and successes with can make a significant difference. Step 5: Plan Alternative Activities Boredom can often lead to drinking. Plan engaging activities to fill your time. This could be anything from starting a new hobby, exercising, reading, or exploring outdoors. Keeping your mind and body active is a great way to steer clear of boredominduced cravings.
Step 6: Track Your Progress Keep a journal or use an app to track your progress. Documenting how you feel each day, the challenges you face, and the victories you achieve provides insight into your journey and a sense of accomplishment. Step 7: Reflect Regularly Set aside time each week to reflect on your experiences. What’s working? What’s challenging? What have you learned about yourself? Regular reflection can help adjust your plan as needed and reaffirm your commitment to your goals. Step 8: Celebrate Milestones Don’t wait until the end of the month to celebrate. Acknowledge and reward yourself for the small victories along the way – be it a week without alcohol, turning down a drink at a social event, or simply feeling more energetic and clear-headed. Step 9: Plan for Post-January As the month draws to a close, start thinking about how you want to incorporate the lessons learned into your life beyond January. Whether you choose to remain alcohol-free or simply reduce your intake, planning for the future ensures that the benefits of Dry January have a lasting impact. 18
m e m n o d c atio e R p n to try o s T INTUNE DRINKS Award winning CBD drinks, created by top bartenders in London and manufactured in the UK. Made with premium hemp cannabidoil, similar to endocannabinoids that occur naturally in your body, CBD can help you to feel more focused and INTUNE with life. (An exclusive discount code for Intune Drinks can be found in the NonTox Grapevine) DRINKS KITCHEN Drinks Kitchen non-alcoholic aperitif are made in Somerset. They are a base of botanical extracts & distillates which pack a punch of flavour. Alli, the founder, then makes them into a concentrate so that you can just add soda/sparkling water for the mixer which makes them a cost effective tipple too! Discount Code: Soberfabulous gives you £3 off your order (equivalent to free delivery) KOMPASSION KOMBUCHA An Independent & Award Winning, Craft kombucha brewery in Scotland. Blending traditional fermentation techniques with distinctive roots, flowers and fruits to produce hazy, homebrew-style kombucha with living goodness inside.
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