The Healthy Hedonist's guide to mindful drinking

Healthy alcohol-free cocktail recipes

I know it doesn’t always feel like it on a great British rainy day, but the rumour is that summer is around the corner!

For many summer is synonymous with parties, festival season, fun times and of course drinks. But if the thought of a boozy summer has you feeling anxious, then we’re here to help.

In the UK 30% of the population is not drinking, the popularity of alcohol with younger generation is declining and more people are becoming sober-curious everyday. As such the demand and rise of popularity is opening doors for more non-alcoholic options, making mindful drinking more exciting and accessible.

How to drink more mindfully

  • It’s ok to say no

You don’t have to explain to anyone why you’re not drinking. Don’t feel like you have to make up excuses like I’m on medication (no I'm not!), I might be pregnant (haha awkward!) or I’m driving tonight (in an Uber!), for your choice to be deemed acceptable.

Usually it will cut the conversation short if you are unapologetic about not wanting a drink. Be comfortable with your decision. If someone is really insistent, I would just say, “I’m good, I’m having fun. Are you?”

  • Look it up!

Do your research. More and more places have exciting zero and low alcohol options on the menu, that beat having to stick too warm orange juice, sugary soda or water (nothing wrong with staying hydrated but, you know!)

Club Soda has a great app that list all venues in the UK that have non-alcohol menus. Make sure to check it out.

  • Work out what you like

From non-alcoholic spirits and sparkling wine to beer, cider and cocktails, there are loads of options out there already and many more to come.

Events like the Mindful Drinking Festival are a great opportunity to try them out. You can also check out my website La Maison Wellness to see a wealth of healthy recipes, as well as listings for my Healthy Hedonist events.

  • Come prepared

Going to a BBQ and worried the lack of interesting drinks options will pressure you into that glass of wine that you don’t really want?

Bring your own! If you come armed with a refreshing mindful cocktail from one of the delicious recipes below, other people will even enjoy trying it.

In summary, remember that you decide what living well means to you. Get to live the life you want and have fun the way you want!

4 delicious alcohol-free summer cocktail recipes

Get inspired by my curation of deliciously guilt-free, alcohol-free cocktails, that won’t compromise your conscious living or leave you with any FOMO this summer.

Alcohol-free seedlip gin cocktail

Zen Garden

  • 40ml Seedlip Garden 108
  • 10ml Green Tea
  • Top up with London Essence & Co White Peach and Jasmine
  • Build in a highball glass over ice
  • Garnish with a slice of cucumber & jasmine flower (optional)

Fruity alcohol-free cocktail

Pamplemousse

  • 40ml Ceder’s Crisp
  • 20ml fresh lime juice
  • 20ml honey water with Rosemary, Rose & Grapefruit Spice Drops
  • Top up with London Essence & Co crafted soda Grapefruit & Lemon Verbena
  • Build in a rock glass over ice
  • Garnish with rosemary and grapefruit slice

Alcohol-free kombucha cocktail

Fresh Focus

  • 20ml Everleaf
  • 20ml Cucumber Syrup
  • 20ml Lime
  • 3 dashes OTO CBD cocktail bitters
  • Top up with Kombucha
  • Shaken and served in a compete glass
  • Garnish with rosemary & Mint

Pink rhubarb healthy cocktail

Pink Alchemy

  • 20ml Tree Spirit
  • 10ml The Bitter Note
  • 10ml Honey Rose Water
  • 20ml Pink Grapefruit
  • Top up with London Essence Co
  • Rhubarb & Cardamom
  • Built over ice in a wine Glass
  • Garnish Rhubarb Ribbon

Like what you see? Check out our top 4 kombucha cocktail recipes >