Embracing Evolving City Life, Alcohol Free – Ten Top Tips. 

Edinburgh is visually striking, and the impressive architecture of both old and new towns is captivating by day and night, steeped in the culture of this capital city. The magnificent castle, elevated and majestic, has seen many a historical battle and been rebuilt on more than one occasion, hosting remnants from each era. It watches over its city witnessing evolution since the 12th Century. As a resident or tourist, navigating the evolving cityscape, embracing city life, alcohol free, there is the expected bombardment that alcohol is connected to class, wealth, good times and relief from pain - all with the “drink responsibly” passed to the consumer of this addictive substance.

Whether it was Christian missionary monks in the early 15th century who brought distillation methods to Scotland, or the highlanders themselves that had the means in creating whisky from its barley and our heaven sent Scottish water using this method (possibly as long ago as 800 AD), there is no doubt that Scotland is world renowned for this ‘amber nectar’. Locals, nationals and tourists alike have bought into the place it has been given in Scottish society, making it a focus of big business and marketing. World Whisky Day is perfect for selling crystal drinkware, glorifying the Class 1 carcinogen by referring to "the angel's share' (which evaporates off, and has had a movie created with that name). It’s no surprise that many of the businesses thriving in the city centre are based in hospitality and riding on beliefs we hold about alcohol at a global level. Edinburgh is not the only city where the drink is interwoven into everything - this is something on a global scale. Look at Sex and the City with its Cosmopolitans and Manhattans (and yes I do love that show!). It's been embedded in every layer, and people who don't seem to be able to take it or leave it often are seen as the problem. Even before traditional marketing gave rise to advertisements and spectacular, light flashing window displays like Johnny Walker on the corner of Princes Street, who pair whisky with rooftop bars, tweed, chocolate and Scottish history (to name a few things) as part of drawing people to their experiences, alcohol itself had the allure in all walks of life. It is addictive no matter your income. It does not distinguish between rich or poor, and it certainly takes hold for those who use it to numb during trials and tribulations.

In early times, mead (a kissing cousin to beer), ale and wine were available in Scotland, and written about by the Robert Burns in the likes of “Scotch Drink” (1785) and “Tam O’Shanter”(1790), published in the Edinburgh Herald the following year. In it, after a night of drinking, Tam encounters a supernatural experience of Witches, Warlocks and The Devil.

The Bard writes in it “Inspiring bold John Barleycorn!
What dangers thou canst make us scorn!
Wi' tippeny, we fear nae evil;
Wi' usquabae, we'll face the devil!”

For those of you who didn’t decipher this one in primary school (yes, we teach this young here, unintentionally instilling the distilling), basically it’s saying with ale we fear no evil and with whisky we can face the devil. I have to say, I have seen whisky bring the devil out in many a person and it seems that drunk courage is far less advantageous that tackling things sober. This skewed perception may also be behind many a UDI (Unidentified Drunken Injury).

I’m in no way trying to persuade you not to drink. That’s each person’s own decision, and this blog is actually to give hope that no matter what your relationship is with alcohol, there is evolution in provision and awareness. So, onto the Alcohol Free part! My Ten Top Tips are at the bottom.

During my weekend break in Edinburgh with some fellow This Naked Mind Coaches, who also follow no alcohol, plant based diet, I was inspired by the signs of growing awareness and provision for people choosing a healthier lifestyle. In it’s sombre theatricality, Edinburgh hosts plenty entertainment as you walk to the castles museums and along the Royal Mile. Menus are easy to peruse in windows or well positioned displays, and places to chose from range from local restaurants to larger chains like Starbucks. I love local, but if you are navigating a city you don’t know, sometimes its great to have some preplanned ideas or a place you recognise organised into your day. I’ll get into this in my top tips below.

The Scottish Café and Restaurant, at the Gardens Entrance of the Scottish National Gallery which boasts sustainable food, delicious ‘slabs’ of cake, cherry blossom green tea and a healthy choice of mocktails which can be enjoyed outdoors every day of the week. Zizzi, in the West End, gave a welcoming and friendly service which included a delicious vegan lasagne option and tasty mocktails into the evening.

Our favourite by far was Vesta Bar & Kitchen (7-8 Queensferry Street), and we all realised this because we found ourselves drawn there daily. It’s slogan, ‘Feel Good Food, Feel Good Actions’ sums it up. From it’s delicious coffee or chamomile tea accompanying the vegan breakfast on a Saturday, or a berry medley pick me up along with a supergrain salad or eggs benedict, you’ll find the vibe you want without the need to have the excuse of a hangover. Comforting classics and ‘gourmet twists’ as well as gluten free, brunch and all day menus are available 7 days a week, all served by helpful and friendly staff, surrounded by a relaxed atmosphere and great music. But I still haven’t shared the best part – it also runs a ‘Pay it Forward’ in support of Social Bite, serving a two course weekly to people experiencing homelessness. Their mission is to end homelessness in Scotland. You can find out more here. https://vestaedinburgh.co.uk/pay-it-forward/

As city life continues to evolve, so too does our relationship with alcohol, and this is seen by the increasing and ever improving options to start embracing city life, alcohol free. With an increasing emphasis on health, wellness, and personal choices, the presence of alcohol-free options on city centre menus has gained prominence. There is a growing trend of alcohol-free drinks in urban settings, celebrating the inclusivity, diversity, and healthier choices they bring to the vibrant tapestry of city life.

Edinburgh is embracing a shift in mindset. Traditionally, alcohol has been the default option when it comes to socialising or enjoying a night out in the city. However, a change in mindset is taking place, acknowledging the importance of offering alternatives that cater to diverse preferences and lifestyles. Restaurants, bars, and cafes are increasingly recognising the value of including alcohol-free drinks on their menus, allowing individuals to enjoy a rich array of flavours and experiences without the need for alcohol. Edinburgh has shown it is abreast of this trend, and it’s exciting to see the introduction of a completely alcohol free bar.

The demand for alcohol-free beverages has surged in recent years, driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of moderation, health consciousness, and a desire for inclusive social spaces. Crafted with creativity and attention to detail, alcohol-free drinks are no longer mere afterthoughts on menus. They now encompass a vast range of offerings, including mocktails, artisanal sodas, herbal infusions, and alcohol-free beers and wines. These beverages provide an opportunity to savour complex flavours, intriguing combinations, and unique taste profiles, enhancing our city experiences in delightful ways.

The presence of alcohol-free drinks on menus promotes a culture of well-being and empowers individuals to make choices that align with their preferences and values. These options provide an avenue for those who choose to abstain from alcohol, whether due to personal preference, health reasons, or other considerations. By embracing alcohol-free alternatives, we foster environments that encourage inclusivity, respect diverse choices, and support individuals and future generations. What we thought was appropriate for us is not always what we want to see at 4am in our children, even when they are of age.

The availability of alcohol-free drinks also enhances social connections in city life. It enables individuals with varying preferences to come together and enjoy shared experiences without any barriers. By offering a range of options, venues can create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and can participate in the social fabric of the city. These choices spark conversations, celebrate diversity, and promote a sense of togetherness, strengthening the social bonds that define urban communities. It encourages innovation, creativity, and diversity in the beverage industry, allowing mixologists and bartenders to showcase their skills in crafting enticing and sophisticated alcohol-free concoctions. This evolution also promotes the opportunity to have the relationship you want with alcohol, facilitating a balanced approach to city life, where individuals can enjoy the vibrant energy while prioritising their wellbeing, ability to make informed choices and keep a handle on their bank balance. Alcohol has the most expensive adverts for a reason – it brings all that cash back and then some!

People tend to perceive living a life alcohol free must be boring, but waking each morning full of ideas and things you can do is far from it. When we use alcohol to numb our feelings, we numb enjoyment of the good, not just our experiences we choose to block out. Embracing city life, alcohol free could make that long weekend away hold so many more great memories for you that you actually remember. When you go on holiday to the beach and drink it has the same dulled and often messy aftermath as it would in a city, or infact at home. Why not get curious and try your next city break or day out with the full experience and vibrancy that is possible, and have peace of mind the next day?

Ten Top Tips for Embracing City Life, Alcohol Free:

1. Get curious – Really try to listen to what your thoughts and your body are telling you that you want from the experience. Is it connection, excitement, great photo opportunities to embrace your creative side or something to talk about when you get back? Then consider if alcohol would genuinely give that to you, and what experiences are out there on your city adventure that could. Do that instead!

2. Stay Mindful and Present: Embrace the culture and vibrancy of city life by staying present in the moment and appreciating the experiences without the need for alcohol. Although a camera can be distracting from being completely present in the surroundings if posting endlessly on social media, there could be a benefit to having a camera or water bottle in your hand to keep them busy and have a project to focus on and look back on to celebrate embracing city life, alcohol free.

3. Explore Social Alternatives: Before you go, seek out alcohol-free events, clubs, and gatherings in the city where you can connect with like-minded individuals who share similar interests without the pressure to drink. It may have been habitual on a city break to have a boozy brunch, so why not look for a farmer’s market instead. With so much to do, don’t opt for things that will draw you to old neural pathways.

4. Discover Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Have a look online at where you might go. Savour the city’s culinary scene by trying mocktails and various non-alcoholic beverages offered at different restaurants and bars. Often their menus are in the window. If there’s not one handed to you, ask. The more AF options are requested, the more awareness and choice there will be!

5. Explore Cultural Activities: Engage in cultural pursuits like visiting museums, art galleries, attending concerts, or participating in workshops to broaden your horizons and create memorable experiences.

6. Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the city’s parks, green spaces, and recreational areas for outdoor activities, such as jogging, picnics, or bike rides.

7. Practice Self-Care: Prioritise making time to meditate and engage in self-care even when you are away. These are your tools in your toolbox that keep you strong and give you space between the thought and your actions.

8. Find someone to be accountable to. Let someone you know in on your plan to be alcohol free on that trip. It might be a friend you can phone or a coach you can meet with when you return.

9. Avoid bars just for drinking if you are finding it tricky! In a city, there are often lots of great alternatives to keep busy, like a night tour.

10. Commit to journaling each evening before you go to bed. Note three things you were grateful for experiencing that day. You’re going to feel so good the next morning!

Have fun, and most of all focus on the life you desire when you make your choices!

love

Coach Susan x

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