How to survive Dry January - Mocktail Recipe

We're officially halfway through January 2018, and most of us have already broken a couple of our resolutions (me included). If you're taking part in Dry January and feel like you're suffering, I am here with my tips how to survive Dry January. This post is kindly sponsored by Fentimans.

Alcohol Concern, the charity that set up Dry January in 2014 said that 79% of participants saved money, 49% lost weight and 62% had better sleep and more energy since taking part. Taking up the challenge to avoid alcohol for 1 month is also a great way to start your New Year health kick. Let's not forget to mention no hangovers and more £££s in your pocket. Feeling more inspired already?

Here are my top tips on how to survive Dry January and push through!

1. Get all temptations out of sight - you might think that you're strong enough to resist temptation, but what if you're not? Give whatever is left in your wine rack and cupboards to friends or relatives (can they be trusted??) to LOOK AFTER until February.

2. Improve your water intake - I know water is boring, but it's so good for you. Get one of those pretty looking water bottles (Primark sells really cheap ones) and fill them up with fresh fruit, or mint with lemons. It looks better and tastes nicer too! Don't forget about herbal and fruit teas, smoothies and juices, they all count too.

3. Get some mocktails in instead - I have recently been introduced to Fentimans and their botanically brewed soft drinks. Botanical brewing is a time-honoured technique of making superior quality beverages using a combination of infusion, skilful blending and fermentation of natural ingredients. Did you know their Rose Lemonade takes 7 days to make and contains real rose petals? Delicious floral flavours with every sip if you ask me! Their Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water has recently won a prestigious 'New Product of the Year' award from The Grocer and their Mediterranean Orange Tonic Water, made with beautifully sweet Valencian Oranges and infused with Lemon Thyme, is the perfect aromatic and refreshing drink on a long, 'dry' January night.I love that they have changed the 125ml size from green to beautiful clear bottles as it makes the range look more consistent, and it illustrates the level of craftsmanship that matches the quality of the drinks inside. All their drinks contain naturally occurring sugars due to the botanical brewing process, however, they are committed to reducing their sugar levels in the future. Fentimans pride themselves on being premium, therefore their drinks are usually enjoyed as a treat rather than an everyday beverage. You can check all their drinks on their website. I have a beautiful mocktail recipe to share below which I've called an English Garden Mocktail.

4. Save up - take a note of all the money you're saving from your usual drinking habits or events, and start writing that shopping list of how you plan to spend it… weekend away? New dress?

5. Keep busy - how about replacing a wine and dine night in with a new gym class, hot chocolate and a trip to the cinema with your best friend? Parties to attend? Become the designated driver. How about getting a few friends, family members or colleagues to do it with you and supporting each other as you go along?

Most of all, please try to remember that by not drinking alcohol (even if it's just a couple of weeks in), that you are already benefiting from increased hydration and a healthier lifestyle. Replacing alcohol with water can help to flush out the toxins in your body and improve your overall health and wellness, so don't give up! You can do it!

Much love,
Hedi