As we enter a new year, many individuals are considering participating in Dry January, a month-long challenge where people abstain from consuming alcohol. This initiative, which began in 2012 as a public health campaign (1), has gained significant popularity worldwide. At Léoniea Domaines, a wine company committed to social responsibility and promoting mindful indulgence, we fully support and encourage the practice of Dry January. In this article, we will explore what Dry January is, what it is not, and why we believe in its importance.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What is Dry January?
Dry January is a personal challenge to abstain from alcohol for the month of January. It is not a declaration of permanent change, nor is it a rejection of indulgence. Rather, it’s an intentional reset—a chance to explore how alcohol fits into your life and to experience the benefits of taking a break. From improved energy and better sleep to greater mental clarity, Dry January offers a powerful reminder of the impact our choices can have on our well-being (2).
Dry January has gained tremendous traction in the past decade, with millions of people worldwide participating in the challenge (3)
What Dry January is Not
Dry January is not a moral stance or an ultimatum. It’s not about judgment or deprivation. At its core, it is an invitation—to pause, reflect, and choose with intention. Whether you decide to go completely dry or take a more mindful approach to your consumption, the purpose is personal growth, not perfection.
Why Léoniea Domaines Supports Dry January
At Léoniea Domaines, we embrace the idea that wine is more than a drink—it’s about connection, celebration, and inclusivity. Supporting non-alcoholic wines and Dry January is an extension of our commitment to ensuring everyone can experience the joy of wine, no matter their preferences or lifestyle choices.
Inclusivity for Every Lifestyle and Preference
We believe wine culture should be accessible to all, whether someone is looking to reduce their alcohol intake, exploring a healthier lifestyle, or simply wants an alternative for social occasions. By offering non-alcoholic options, we ensure that everyone has a place at the table, and no one feels excluded.
Innovation That Expands Our Craft
At our core, we are winemakers who honor tradition while embracing innovation. Crafting non-alcoholic wines allows us to explore the artistry of winemaking in new and exciting ways. These wines prove that the essence of wine—its flavor, aroma, and the memories it creates—isn’t defined by alcohol content alone.
Strengthening Year-Round Connections
Dry January is more than just a trend—it’s an opportunity to deepen our connection with customers. By supporting initiatives like this, we show that Léoniea Domaines is a brand that understands and supports our customers’ evolving needs, offering them meaningful choices throughout every season.
Dry January and our non-alcoholic wines aren’t about leaving tradition behind—they’re about expanding it. It’s about creating a world where everyone can enjoy the richness of wine, whether they choose traditional bottles or alcohol-free options.
According to Alcohol Change UK 71% had better sleep, and 58% lost weight during Dry January (4)
Benefits of Dry January:
Taking a short break from alcohol, like during Dry January, offers an opportunity to reset and explore new possibilities, all while enjoying the ritual of wine with non-alcoholic options.
Here are some key benefits:
Boosted Wellness Without Sacrificing Enjoyment
A temporary pause on alcohol can refresh your body and mind. Many people notice improved hydration, better nutrient absorption, and feeling more energized. It’s a chance to focus on wellness without giving up the social and sensory pleasure of a great glass of wine.
Mindful Habits
A month off helps you reassess your relationship with alcohol, allowing you to make more intentional choices in the future. This mindful approach often leads to a deeper appreciation for the experience of enjoying wine—whether traditional or non-alcoholic.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Many participants find improved focus, better sleep, and a general sense of well-being. These benefits extend beyond the month, creating a foundation for healthier habits moving forward.
Taking a break doesn’t mean missing out. By exploring non-alcoholic wines, you can maintain the ritual and sophistication of wine culture while prioritizing your well-being in a way that works for you.
Practicing Conscious Consumption and Mindful Indulgence:
Conscious Consumption involves making deliberate choices about what we consume, considering the impact on our health, the environment, and society.
Mindful Indulgence means enjoying treats or indulgences mindfully and intentionally, savoring the experience, and being present in the moment.
Tips for Achieving Mindful Indulgence and Conscious Consumption in Wine:
Choose Non-Alcoholic Wine: Brands like Léoniea Domaines "Celeste Collection" offers excellent non-alcoholic wine options, allowing individuals to enjoy the taste and experience of wine without the alcohol content.
Be Mindful of Portion Sizes: Practice moderation and savor each sip of wine, focusing on the flavors and aromas.
Pair Wine with Healthy Foods: Enjoy wine alongside nutritious meals or snacks to create a balanced and mindful experience.
Take Time to Appreciate: Slow down and fully appreciate the wine-drinking experience, paying attention to the sensory aspects and the pleasure it brings.
Taking a Pause: The Art of Mindful Indulgence
At Léoniea Domaines, we understand the joy of a perfect glass of wine. But we also know there’s power in pressing pause when it feels right for you. Dry January isn’t about giving up—it’s about tuning in. It’s a month to embrace self-reflection, prioritize well-being, and practice intentional choices that support a healthier and happier lifestyle.
This isn’t about deprivation or judgment. It’s a personal journey—one that empowers you to evaluate your relationship with alcohol and rediscover balance. Taking a break can bring clarity, helping you make decisions that align with your goals, whether that means savoring traditional wines or exploring sophisticated non-alcoholic options.
As a wine company dedicated to #MindfulIndulgence, we champion this approach. Dry January aligns with our values of moderation, responsibility, and creating space for intentional enjoyment. It’s proof that the art of indulgence doesn’t need to disappear when you choose to take a break—it simply evolves.
So, whether you’re raising a glass of zero-proof wine this January or savoring your usual favorites when the time feels right, we’re here to support you. At Léoniea Domaines, we celebrate every choice that reflects your individuality and well-being.
Here’s to a month of mindful decisions, meaningful moments, and a refreshed perspective. Whatever your path, we’re honored to be part of your journey.
Cheers to you and the year ahead!
Read about Sustainability Ethics: Learn more about Leoniea's sustainability ethics on our website.
Sources:
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684010/
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1332970/us-dry-january-participation-by-age/
Having a challenge with an alcohol disorder? It’s okay, we are here to support you:
Alcoholism Support Groups:
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): AA is a program run by individuals in recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD). It teaches you how to get and remain sober long-term. AA chapters are located across the United States and internationally .
Al-Anon and Alateen: These support groups are designed for family members and friends of alcoholics. They provide resources for coping with someone's drinking behavior. Meetings can be attended in person, online, or via phone .
SMART Recovery™: SMART Recovery™ is a support group for people suffering from various types of addiction. It offers face-to-face meetings worldwide and digital resources such as a 24/7 chat room and message board .
Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS): Similar to AA, SOS offers meetings for alcoholics to get and remain sober. Meetings take place in cities across the United States and online .
Centerstone.org: Centerstone provides educational resources about alcohol prevention, excessive drinking, and treatment options. They offer articles, toolkits, fact sheets, and videos .
Women For Sobriety: This organization helps women who suffer from alcoholism or substance abuse. They offer meetings and support groups following the Thirteen Statement Program. They also provide self-help tools such as an online forum, conferences, booklets, and DVDs .
Your Primary Care Physician: Your primary care physician can help you find a treatment center for alcohol use disorder. They can diagnose alcoholism and refer you to top-rated rehab facilities .
Alcoholism Research Organizations:
American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (AAAP): This organization produces The American Journal on Addictions, which contains detailed research and articles about substance abuse, including alcoholism. They also provide a patient resources portal to locate specialists .
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): ADAA provides resources about the effects of anxiety and depression, which often coexist with alcoholism. They have a directory of therapists across the United States .
The American Psychological Association (APA): APA promotes research related to alcoholism and mental health. They have a list of psychologists across the nation and resources on various psychological subjects .
American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM): ASAM focuses on improving the quality of care for individuals seeking treatment for substance abuse, including alcoholism. They provide information about local treatment services and health professionals specializing in alcohol recovery .
National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC): NAADAC is useful for those interested in helping others overcome addiction. They have a membership base of health professionals specializing in prevention, treatment, and recovery .
National Association of Social Workers (NASW): NASW focuses on the quality of care provided by social workers. They have an online directory of clinical social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists with different specialties, including alcohol use disorders .
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): NIAAA provides information on alcohol-related issues and treatment resources. They publish articles and white papers related to the effects of alcoholism and offer opportunities for various treatment services .
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): NIDA provides scientific data about the causes and effects of alcoholism. They have studies containing information about how excessive alcohol consumption affects the brain .
National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH focuses on individuals with a mental health disorder and alcoholism dual diagnosis. They provide information about prevention and recovery through clinical studies and research findings .
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA offers a treatment facility locator for alcoholism and mental health disorders. They provide helpful information about dual diagnosis conditions and state-funded treatment programs .
About Léoniea™ Domaines
Léoniea emerged from both resistance and deep roots in wine excellence.
When old wine dynasties tried claiming what wasn't theirs - a name that belonged to generations before them - it became clear a new path was needed. Not borrowed from ancient myths, but born from the intersection of heritage and lived truth.
Our lineage traces back through French soil, through my grand-père's masterful expertise and uncompromising standards for exceptional wines. It was during a visit to my grand-mère Annalise, after my battling cancer and healing under her gentle care, that the name found its way home. My hair wild and untamed, she called me "petite lionne" - her little lioness - smiling as she recalled how my grand-père's hair would curl into a mane in the summer heat of France.
Léoniea (lee-on-ye-ah) rose from those moments, carrying forward generations of wine craftsmanship while forging its own path. Not just a wine, but a guardian force reimagined - one that honors tradition while protecting what matters. That's why 30% of our profits flow directly to women entrepreneurs and community care initiatives.
This is about creating something new while honoring what came before. Elegant yet fierce. Rooted yet revolutionary. Excellence born from heritage, purpose drawn from truth.
This is Léoniea Domaines.
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