Life in recovery will sometimes have challenges that can take you by surprise—especially if you’re not prepared with the knowledge you need to navigate those situations successfully. If you have experienced alcohol use disorder, these challenges might include finding alternatives to alcoholic beverages or discovering new ways to spend your time without drinking. Check out these alcohol substitutes and alcohol-free activities to help you stay sober while enjoying all life offers.
Alcohol Substitutes
Sometimes you might find yourself in a situation where people feel expected to drink, or maybe you’d just like to enjoy a nice beverage every now and then. Some great alcohol-free options include:
- Iced coffees or teas. Perk up for the day and treat yourself to your favorite iced coffee or tea. With or without the caffeine, the different flavors, add-ins, or milk options make iced coffee or teas excellent alcohol substitutes.
- Smoothies. Packed with healthy fruits, vegetables, and supplements, a well-made smoothie can boost your vitamin intake and keep you sipping sans alcohol.
- Mocktails. A play on words combining “mock” and “cocktail”, mocktails can be a great alternative drink in social situations. With nearly endless variety and flavor options, mocktails give you something to sip on while enjoying everyone’s company and still maintaining your sobriety.
Alcohol-Free Activities
Sometimes you might not need an alcohol substitute but rather an alternative to drinking altogether. After all, boredom is one of the key contributors to relapse. There are plenty of activities that can help you stay sober while keeping you entertained or helping you learn a new skill.
- Embrace the arts. Visit your local cinema or theater to catch a new movie or play. Take a stroll through an art gallery, or take up painting yourself. Attend a local concert, or watch a street performer play. The arts are a great way to stay inspired.
- Head outdoors. Get outside and get moving. Go for a jog around your local park or hike on a nature trail. Walk along the beach looking for seashells, or take a kayak out on the water. The great outdoors offers endless opportunities for recovery-friendly adventure.
- Take a class. Ever wish you knew how to make your own pottery, kickbox, or dance? Learning a new skill can not only help keep your mind and body young, but it’s a great way to support your goals and remain alcohol-free.
- Connect with your community. Call your best friend, or visit an elderly person in the nursing home. Check out some new books at your local library, or sample clover honey at the weekly farmer’s market. Have lunch at the food truck in the park, and support your local businesses. The people and the places around you can be the biggest support of all in your recovery journey.
Need More Alternatives to Alcohol? Get the Support You Deserve.
Living in recovery isn’t always as easy as you might wish, but there are many great alternatives to alcohol. At Pillars Recovery, we understand the struggle and can help you navigate your sobriety. Support is just a click or a phone call away. Contact Pillars Recovery today to get the help you deserve to thrive in your best life.
