Sober Summer Kickoff: AF Beverages, Rituals & Boundaries
Summer signals a season of fun, sun, and for many—temptation. BBQs, weddings, vacations, and rooftop parties often center around alcohol. But here’s the truth: You don’t need booze to celebrate the season. With the right tools, sober summers can be more energizing, meaningful, and connected than ever before.
If you're ready to thrive in sobriety this season, here’s your guide to kicking off a summer of empowerment.
Celebrate with AF Beverages
Who says you can’t clink glasses? Sober doesn't mean boring. Try these fun alcohol-free options:
Cucumber mint spritz: sparkling water, lime, cucumber ribbons, and mint
Watermelon “rita”: muddled watermelon, lime, and a Tajín rim
Coconut lavender fizz: coconut water, lavender syrup, splash of soda
Crafting and sharing AF beverages keeps you in the celebration while supporting your sobriety.
Establish Summer Rituals
Rituals help reinforce emotional sobriety and anchor you when routines shift. Consider:
Morning journaling or meditation on your porch with iced herbal tea
Weekly nature walks or evening swims
Creating a seasonal playlist for movement, reflection, or joy
These rituals turn ordinary moments into sacred time and keep you grounded.
Set Social Boundaries Early
Before you RSVP yes, ask yourself:
Will I feel supported there?
Can I bring my own beverages or leave early if needed?
Do I need to set an intention before I go?
Having a plan before you enter triggering environments helps you stay aligned with your goals.
Try this script:
“I’m so excited to see everyone, and I’ll be bringing some fun non-alcoholic beverages!! I’m all about thriving this summer in my sobriety.”
Keep a Sober Buddy System
Whether it’s a sponsor, coach, or sober friend—don’t go it alone. Text someone before and after events or schedule a quick check-in call. Emotional sobriety often comes down to connection and accountability with your network.
Celebrate Yourself
Sobriety is not just about what you don’t do—it’s about who you’re becoming. This summer, celebrate how far you’ve come. Make space to rest, recharge, and reflect. Host your own gatherings where recovery is the vibe. Blossom in sobriety by creating the joy you used to seek in a bottle.
Summer is yours to reclaim. With conscious rituals, healthy boundaries, and sparkling AF beverage in hand, you can honor your sobriety while soaking up every sunlit moment. Here’s to a season where you thrive—not just survive.
Need help with emotional sobriety? Considering downloading my free checklist!
Have more questions or need more support?
References:
How to Navigate your First Sober Summer with Ease: https://thesobermomlife.com/2025/05/14/how-to-navigate-your-first-sober-summer-with-ease/
Sober under the sun: Embracing summer fun without the buzz: https://www.rosecrance.org/blog/sober-under-the-sun-embracing-summer-fun-without-the-buzz/
Tanya D. is a Usui/Holy Fire® III Karuna Reiki® Master, Pranic Healer, Meditation Instructor, Holistic Recovery Coach and SHE RECOVERS® Coach. Find her @thepeacewecrave on Facebook/Instagram and at www.thepeacewecrave.com for all things recovery, energy, meditation, healing, and peace. Contact her at tanyad@thepeacewecrave.com.