More than a third of Brits (35%) claim they have cut back on their alcohol consumption over the last year – with 21% saying they simply don't like booze anymore, a study has found.
Attitudes to alcohol are seemingly changing, as over half of Brits who drink (57%) are now choosing to “do things by halves” – with 61% striving to drink alcohol in moderation.
The top reasons for doing so include health reasons (46%), having a more balanced lifestyle (42%) – and as a form of self-care (43%).
And of those who have cut back in the last 12 months, one in three (34%) have noticed their overall health and wellbeing improving, while 41% have saved money.
The survey of 2,000 adults, who have previously drunk alcohol, revealed that almost half (44%) consider mindful drinking a good way of bringing more moderation into their lives – and 14% find it helps them to make life's moments more memorable.
In fact, one in five are planning to adopt an “in moderation” approach when it comes to drinking at social events this summer – despite 27% having never attended a social occasion without drinking, up until the last 12 months.
The research was commissioned by Harrogate Spring Water, advocates of mindful drinking, whose managing director, Richard Hall, said: “Our survey clearly shows adults of today are becoming more mindful in their drinking habits.
“Trying to intersperse alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks is a great way to do this.”
The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found 78% associate certain social occasions – such as post-work events, weddings, and birthdays – with the consumption of alcohol.
But many are turning to drinking mindfully because they believe that it gives them better relationships (23%) – while 21% have simply become bored of drinking.
Birthdays (26%), weddings (25%), and meals with friends (25%) are some of the occasions adults think they would find more enjoyable if they were able to practice moderation.
Harrogate Spring Water is hosting a Mindful Drinking Bar at this year’s Royal Ascot – with the aim of encouraging racegoers to “do things by halves, one sip at a time.”
Richard Hall added: “Our Mindful Drinking Bar is back at Royal Ascot for the second year running.
“We are pleased to be able to support people to socialise and enjoy the moment whilst reducing their alcohol intake – which we know is often much easier said than done.
“We want to show racegoers that drinking life in, and enjoying the moment by doing things by halves, really can help make life’s moments more memorable.”
