Over half of Brits choosing to cut down on booze and drink ‘mindfully’

BRITS do love a bev.

But millions are now rethinking their drinking habits, noting how much booze they're having and why.

A poll of 2,000 adults who have previously consumed alcohol found 57 per cent are choosing to ‘do things by halves’ - interspersing alcoholic drinks with alcohol-free alternatives at social occasions.

Prior to the last 12 months, 27 per cent had never attended a social occasion without drinking.

But attitudes appear to be changing - with 61 per cent of those polled now more inclined to drink alcohol in moderation.

Commissioned by Harrogate Spring Water, advocates of mindful drinking, the study found 20 per cent are motivated to try such an approach to drinking at social events this summer.

Further to this, 44 per cent see mindful drinking as a way to bring more moderation into their life, with 43 per cent viewing it as a form of self-care.

And 14 per cent find it helps them make life’s moments more memorable.

Richard Hall, managing director for the bottled water brand, 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 also found 78 per cent associate certain social occasions, such as post-work events, weddings and birthdays, with the consumption of alcohol.

Many are turning to drinking mindfully because they believe it gives them a more balanced lifestyle (42 per cent) and better relationships (23 per cent).  

Health reasons (46 per cent), to save money (41 per cent) and becoming bored of drinking (21 per cent) are some of the other reasons why adults are adopting this approach.

It also emerged 35 per cent have decreased their alcohol consumption over the last 12 months - with 34 per cent noticing an improvement in their overall health and wellbeing as a result.