For many of us, drinking alcohol is a big part of our social life. Some could not even imagine going out without having a drink or two.
However, for many people struggling to free themselves from alcoholism, it can be hard to go to a bar without having to deal with the pressure of having an alcoholic drink, risk of falling off the wagon, and relapsing into harmful behavior.
Even for people who aren't addicted, some might not feel like submerging themselves into a drink-soaked place that inevitably entails hangovers, DUIs, as well as the many problems of excessive alcohol use—varying from fatty liver and cirrhosis to several types of cancer, stroke, dementia, anxiety, and depression, not to mention the social ills related to the substance.
As alcohol-free options are becoming increasingly attractive to people across the US, new "sober bars" are popping up for recovering alcoholics seeking community, fun, and support. Of course, these bars are also an alternative for those who just want a healthy alternative to the boozy default.
These sober bars look just like the real thing, but alcohol is not part of the equation. People there enjoy the night scene over sober beverages instead, such as matcha tea frappes, fruity infusions, creative virgin cocktails, and non-alcoholic beers.
One example is the Cherokee Recovery Village in Barstrop, Texas. There, people can find a sense of belonging without the need to imbibe.
At first glance, the village looks like a traditional tavern—it's dark and dingy, with shelves filled with non-alcoholic beverages, KEYE reports. But rather than beer and liquor, patrons can find kombucha and coffee while taking part in a traditional bar or club events like karaoke, fundraising events, and community dinners.
Cherokee Recovery Village owner Paul French, a former addict, currently working as a licensed chemical dependency counselor, pointed out that the venue's ambiance offers critical help for those in recovery.
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