Sober October encourages us to go booze-free to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. By choosing to knock alcohol on the head, you can support people going through the toughest time. The money you raise will help Macmillan provide physical, emotional, and financial support to millions living with cancer – who feel more vulnerable in the shadow of COVID-19.

As a bonus, you will benefit too. Your head will feel clearer as alcohol dehydrates us, and so frazzles the mind. Feeling more hydrated also gives you more energy. You will also sleep better and lose weight, with a general boost to your wellbeing. All in all, going alcohol-free for a month is good for you.

Alcohol-free but full of verve

There are so many drinks you can choose to give a tingle of joy without needing the booze. Highball Alcohol-Free Cocktails come from the husband-and-wife team of Red and Kate Johnson. They had a list of five favourite cocktails that they wanted to convert into non-alcoholic drinks. With an authentic and delicious taste, but these are cocktails you can enjoy at any time of day – and most importantly – during Sober October.

Whether it is Ginger Dram, Italian Spritz, Cosmopolitan, Mojito, or Pink G & T, you can feel all the sophistication and style of these drinks while benefitting from the natural ingredients.

Mockingbird Spirit offers an alternative alcohol-free agave spirit from maker Fern. Her mission was to create the UK’s first non-alcoholic Tequila alternative. It is incredible how you cannot tell the difference between this and its Mexican big brother.

While you might not lose your inhibitions with these non-alcoholic drinks, you will keep the clarity of thought while you have your chilled times with friends.

Juicy teas

Kombucha is naturally fermented tea flavoured with Cherry – and is a non-alcoholic, probiotic sweet drink loved by children and adults alike. It is a perfect balance between the sourness of tea and the sweetness of the cherry.

If you want something that reminds you of Japanese green tea, you can try Juno Bamboo Water. This is a natural soft drink made with an infusion of bamboo leaf and a hint of sweet citrus. It is filled with natural antioxidants, which help to purify the system. It is also great for hydrating the body, leading to plumper looking skin and a healthy glow.

Taking in enough fluids is essential. While we love the sensation that alcohol gives us, it also dehydrates us. These lovely fruit juices keep you topped up with fluids with some important health benefits too.

Is it time to sign up?

Maybe, just maybe, it is time to sign up for Sober October. Message your friends and ask for sponsorship and prepare to feel better over the 31 days of October. The good news is that there is no need to fear missing out, as there are some wonderful non-alcoholic drinks to keep you going.