Abstaining from alcohol is a common practice in many religions, including Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism. In Islam, alcohol is strictly prohibited by the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Muslims believe that alcohol is harmful to the body and mind, and it can lead to sinful behavior and actions that are not in line with the teachings of Islam. You will find Muslims who drink but in general the practice is frowned upon.
Similarly, in Christianity, the Bible teaches that drunkenness is a sin and that Christians should not be controlled by anything, including alcohol and the devil. In Judaism, alcohol is permitted in moderation, and a glass of wine sanctifies the Shabbat dinner every Friday night and Saturday, but excessive drinking is discouraged as it can lead to irresponsible behavior and harm to oneself and one’s community.
In Buddhism, the consumption of alcohol is discouraged as it can lead to a loss of mindfulness and awareness, which are the basic essential aspects of a Buddhist’s practice. Buddhists strive to achieve inner peace and clarity of mind, and, well, drinking alcohol can take you far away from that state of mind.
For many people who practice any of these religions, and may be even both of them (Judaism and Buddhism can go together) abstaining from alcohol is seen as a way to lead a healthier and more spiritually fulfilling life.
In addition to religious reasons, some people choose not to drink alcohol for personal or health reasons. Alcohol can be addictive and have negative effects on the body and mind, and can cause liver damage, impaired judgment, and increased risk of accidents and injuries. After day-drinking and COVID we learn just last year that no amount of alcohol is safe.
Virgin cocktails are making a comeback. Here are 10 you can order if you find yourself at a bar or work party and want to join the party without partaking.
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Virgin Mojito: In a tall glass, push down 8 to 10 mint leaves with 1/2 lime juice and 2 tsp sugar. Fill the glass with ice and top up with soda water. Stir well and garnish with mint leaves and lime wedge.
A mojito for Muslims -
Shirley Temple: Fill a tall glass with ice and add 1 oz grenadine syrup and 4 oz ginger ale. Stir well and garnish with a cherry and orange slice. It’s a classic.
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Strawberry Lemonade: In a blender, blend 1 cup fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup lemon juice and 2 tbsp honey. Strain the mixture and pour into a tall glass filled with ice. Top up with sparkling water and garnish with a strawberry. Yum. You can add maple syrup or agave or any other sweetener as well.
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Pineapple Coconut Cooler: In a blender, blend 1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple chunks with 1/2 cup coconut milk and 2 tsp honey or maple syrup. Strain the mixture and pour into a tall glass filled with ice. Top up with sparkling water and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
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Virgin Margarita: In a blender, blend 1 cup ice, 1/2 cup lime juice, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1/2 cup orange juice. Rim a salted glass with lime wedge and dip into salt. Pour the mixture into the glass and garnish with a lime wedge.
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Virgin Pina Colada: In a blender, blend 1 cup pineapple chunks, 1/2 cup coconut milk, and 1/2 cup ice. Pour the mixture into a tall glass and top up with pineapple juice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
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Blueberry Lemon Spritzer: In a shaker, mix 1/4 cup fresh blueberries with 1/2 oz lemon juice and 1 tbsp honey. Add ice and shake well. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice and top up with sparkling water. Garnish with blueberries and lemon slices.
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Peach Iced Tea: In a pitcher, mix 1/2 cup peach puree with 6 cups brewed iced tea and 2 tbsp honey, maple syrup or agave. Stir well and pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with peach slice and mint leaves.
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Cucumber Lemonade: In a blender, blend 1 cup of cucumber slices with 1/2 cup lemon juice and 2 tbsp honey or agave. Strain the mixture and pour into a tall glass filled with ice. Top up with soda water and garnish with cucumber slices.
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Virgin Mary: In a salted rimmed glass, pour 4 oz tomato juice, 1/2 oz lemon juice, 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 tsp hot sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir well and garnish with a celery stalk.
