For a lot of us, the after-work drink is a habit more than a choice. It marks the line between work and the rest of the evening.
More people in the UK are now looking for other ways to draw that line. Some are cutting back, some have stopped altogether, and some just want a few more clear-headed mornings. Whatever your reason, here are eight ways to unwind after work without alcohol, plus how to pick a good alcohol-free drink.
1. Create a clear “end of work” moment
The hardest part of unwinding is switching off. Give your brain a signal. Close the laptop, write tomorrow’s top three tasks, and leave your desk. If you work from home, change your clothes or step outside for five minutes.
2. Keep the ritual, change the drink
Often, it’s the ritual we enjoy: the sound of a can opening, a nice glass, the first sip. You don’t have to lose that. Pour an alcohol-free drink into your favourite glass, add ice and a slice of citrus, and take a moment with it.
3. Get outside before it gets dark
A walk around the block, a few stops early off the bus, or ten minutes in the park. Daylight and fresh air help put a full stop on the working day.
4. Move your body
A gentle yoga flow, a swim or an easy jog helps release the tension of a day at a desk. It doesn’t have to be a workout. Anything that gets you out of your head and into your body counts.
5. Try a breathing exercise
Slow breathing is one of the simplest tools there is. Try breathing in for four counts and out for six, for two to three minutes. Longer out-breaths are a good way to slow down.
6. Cook something properly
Chopping, stirring and tasting is absorbing in the best way. A slow evening meal is a much better end to the day than a takeaway eaten at your desk.
7. See people
Socialising doesn’t have to revolve around the pub. Suggest a walk, a padel game, a cinema trip or a rooftop catch-up. Most venues now stock decent alcohol-free options too.
8. Protect your sleep
Alcohol can make you feel sleepy, but it tends to disrupt the quality of your sleep later in the night. Skipping it on weeknights is one of the easiest ways to wake up feeling fresher.
Choosing the best alcohol-free drinks in the UK
The UK’s alcohol-free range has improved a lot. Look for something with real flavour and a grown-up finish, not just a sugary soft drink. Check the label: “de-alcoholised” drinks can still contain up to 0.5% ABV, while others are a true 0%.
JOY: an alcohol-free drink made for unwinding
We made JOY for exactly this moment, the shift from work mode into your evening. It’s a 0% ABV, non-stimulant 200ml can made with:
• L-Tyrosine, an amino acid found naturally in foods such as cheese, chicken and soy
• L-Theanine, an amino acid found naturally in tea leaves
• Botanical terpenes, the aromatic plant compounds behind the scent of citrus, herbs and hops
It tastes of strawberry and mango, with bitter notes for a grounding, finish. Pour it over ice for your end-of-day ritual or bring a few to the rooftop.
Frequently asked questions
What can I drink instead of alcohol to relax?
Try an alcohol-free drink with real flavour and a bitter, grown-up finish, served over ice in a nice glass. Herbal teas and sparkling water with citrus work too. The ritual matters as much as the drink.
Is 0% ABV the same as alcohol-free?
Not always. In the UK, “alcohol-free” drinks can contain up to 0.05% ABV and “low alcohol” up to 1.2%. JOY is 0% ABV.
How do I switch off after work?
Create a clear end-of-work moment, get outside, move your body and keep a calming evening ritual. Small, repeatable habits work better than big changes.
Does JOY contain caffeine?
No. JOY is non-stimulant, so it fits into your evening without affecting your sleep the way caffeine can.
Related reading: Curious about functional ingredients? Read What Is Lion’s Mane? Need a lift earlier in the day? See How to get energy without the crash.
Ease up, feel bright. Shop JOY, or pick up the Mixed Pack to try all three states.
JOY is a non-alcoholic functional drink. Enjoy as part of a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are worried about your drinking, the NHS website has free advice and support.
