You may have heard this new term that’s been thrown around these past few years, “sober curious“. When I first heard the expression, I laughed out loud. But as the podcaster continued to explain the expression, I realized that he was describing me. And as I continued to learn more and more about “sober curiosity”, I came to the realization that I whole-heartedly stood behind this emerging cultural movement.

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE “SOBER CURIOUS”

Sober curious is defined in a variety of ways, but always with one common thread: that individuals examine the physical or emotional affects they may have from alcohol consumption. What I love about this is that it’s not ALL OR NOTHING. It’s inclusive of all individuals no matter how much they may drink, and simply encourages one to, well… get curious.

THE EMERGENCE OF MINDFUL DRINKING

I spent the last two decades of my life with a drink in hand at most social gatherings. Because that’s just what you did. And if I didn’t, people would immediately assume that I’ve quit drinking or I’m pregnant. It was always so all-or-nothing. As people become more aware of the affects that alcohol has on their own mind and body, they’re less likely to mindlessly overindulge to avoid the consequences.

I’ve also noticed an emergence of “sober curious” – themed podcasts and support groups, like One Year No Beer, and Instagram feeds and apps like Reframe. They often share neuroscience-backed data about the effects of alcohol use and encourage mindful drinking through success stories. All while being incredibly inclusive of individuals looking to explore their alcohol use or simply learn. All these resources have been influenced by the millennial generation’s attempt at “clean living”, making a low or no alcohol life more socially acceptable.

MY GO-TO N/A OPTIONS

I’ve mentioned in a few past posts that I really cut down on my drinking at the start of covid. Simply put, it was a way to maintain some sort of control in this crazy household. And although I whole heartedly continue to enjoy wine and cocktails, I’ve managed to replace many drinks with mocktails or N/A refreshments. Bartenders and many local establishments have jumped on the bandwagon by offering creative N/A options. For example, The Barman Tim at Morrissey’s Lounge and Bistro has mixed me up some great mocktails, inspired by some of his favorite seasonal features. (Remember when we mixed up the Adelphi Rose with Tim?)I was introduced the “Hoppy Refresher” while playing shuffleboard with my boys several years back at Henry Street Tap Room. But at home, I usually turn to one of these three N/A options. And as you can see, I keep it super simple. Feel free to modify them to your liking.

THE LIME REFRESHER (soooo good!)

• Rocks Glass
• One Full Lime, Squeezed Over Ice
• Q Light Tonic
• Lime to garnish

THE SUMMERTIME SPRITZER (a party favorite!)

• Large Wine Glass
• Splash of Pomegranate Juice, Over Ice
• Splash of FRESH OJ (fresh makes a huge difference!)
• Finished with Favorite Seltzer
• Orange to Garnish

THE HOPPY REFRESHER (think IPA infused seltzer!)

• Laguinitas Zero Cal Hoppy Refresher
• That’s it.

I could honestly care less who is or is not on a quest to become “sober curious”. But knowing that there are so many resources available and so many UhMAzing mocktails out there… makes me want to seriously pay homage to my millennial friends.

For what I feel is a much needed paradigm shift.