Are Mocktails Good for Sobriety? (Sober Coach Explains).

mocktails sobriety tips May 05, 2023

Today, we’re talking about something that not everyone wants to talk about.

And that is what I’m calling “mocktail anxiety,” or having hesitations about trying a mocktail in alcohol recovery.

This a totally valid feeling that I think we should discuss!

Large numbers of people around the globe are putting down alcohol and picking up functional drinks that improve health, instead of impairing it.

For anyone outside the scope of addiction/dependency, this is a no-brainer choice.

But, for those of us with a complicated relationship with the habit of sipping something, it’s not that simple.

Much like smoking, the hand-to-mouth motion associated with drinking can bring up emotions.

So can flavors and smells.

It’s easy to understand why someone in alcohol recovery might be hesitant to drink an alcohol-free gin martini (yes, that exists).

Let's talk about why. ⤵

What is a Mocktail?

A mocktail can be anything from Diet Coke with lime to an AF white Russian. The simple definition is “a cocktail without alcohol.”

Our definition of a cocktail is expanding in the U.S., and it doesn’t always mean booze.

For you, it’ll be helpful to think about what you’re comfortable with versus what makes you nervous.

When first dipping your toes in, start in your comfort zone and choose drinks based on function.

This will help you re-think what a “cocktail” means to you.

Tips to Lessen Mocktail Anxiety:

Don’t start with AF spirits. The aim of some of these products is often to mimic the original flavors. Ease into mocktails with non-imitating flavors, ones that you’re familiar with such as fruit or citrus.
Allow yourself to be creative. Crafting tasty AF drinks can be fun and part of taking your power back from alcohol. Finally, choose ingredients you love.
Use affirmations to keep anxiety under control and shift your mindset.
Talk to a sober person who likes mocktails.

Why Choose Functional Beverages?

They contain wellness-focused ingredients, providing specific health benefits.

Consumers are often shopping these bevs by benefit, even before flavor.

The ingredients in functional beverages aren’t new, they’re traditional elements like CBD, adaptogens, herbs, vitamins, mushrooms, nootropics, and more.

Clever mixologists and scientists are inspired to use these versatile ingredients to meet people’s demand for better alcohol-free beverages.

Functional Bev Examples:

Curious Elixirs: creating booze-free craft cocktails, infused with adaptogens to help you unwind. They believe non-alcoholic drinks should be unusually delicious, well-crafted, and good for bodies and souls.
Recess: calm for every occasion - sparkling water infused with hemp & adaptogens for calm & clarity.