Your Guide to Non-Alcoholic Rituals: Why Drinking Together Still Matters
Drinking has always been about togetherness - not just what’s in your glass. Across cultures and centuries, we’ve gathered with something to sip, toast, or share. As non-alcoholic rituals and sober socialising take off, it’s clearer than ever: what we’re really craving isn’t the booze - it’s connection.
Why Humans Need Connection (and Rituals)
We are wired for connection. Evolutionary psychology shows our survival depended on our ability to form bonds, belong to a tribe, and share in collective rituals. In fact, researchers have found that sharing a drink (or a meal, or a dance) acts like social glue, increasing trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging.
It doesn’t even have to be alcoholic. Research shows that rituals—the toast, the first sip, even the group selfie—deepen social bonds, build trust, and boost happiness, even when there’s no alcohol involved (Norton & Gino, 2014). The vibe comes from the moment, not the ABV.
That’s why, whether we’re meeting at a local bar, inviting mates round for a backyard yarn, or just welcoming someone into our home, the ritual almost always starts the same way: Would you like a drink?
How Rituals Change (and Sometimes Get Better)
Going non-alc doesn’t mean less fun—it often means more intention, more presence, and more genuine connection. No fuzzy heads, no blurry memories—just actual stories you remember in the morning.
Non-alcoholic rituals can feel even more inclusive, breaking down barriers for anyone who isn’t drinking but still wants to be part of the moment.
A few reasons drinking together still matters - no matter what’s in your glass:
It marks the moment: The simple act of raising a glass signals, “We’re here, together.”
It lowers social barriers: Sharing a drink can make new groups feel like old friends - alcohol optional.
It creates a shared rhythm: The flow of pouring, sipping, and toasting helps everyone sync up.
It’s universal: Every culture has some form of drinking ritual - tea, coffee, cocktails, or Terps.
The Power of Non-Alcoholic Rituals
The Terps & Co tribe has rewritten the rules. Our community has taken Terps cans everywhere: sunrise hikes, festivals, group meditations, backyard BBQs, housewarmings, and late-night debriefs. Wherever there’s a gathering, there’s a drink in hand and a story in the making.
Ask around: “Best night out with no booze?” You’ll hear about deeper chats, better dancing, and epic next mornings.
Practical Tips for Creating Your Own Rituals
1. The First Toast:
Kick off with intention—maybe a gratitude round, a “rose and thorn” of the week, or a silly group challenge.
2. Mocktail Moment:
Each guest crafts a new drink for someone else (pro tip: the Terps Mixologist tool has your back).
3. Last Round Ritual:
Everyone shares a highlight, a hope, or a hot take before heading home.
4. The Terps Cooler Challenge:
Who brought the wildest serve? (Bonus points for botanical flair.)
5. Music & Vibe:
Curate a playlist together—because the right tunes are half the magic.
Human Nature, Wellbeing & Why It All Matters
Drinking together is about wellbeing, not just celebration. Rituals foster belonging, reduce stress, and boost mental health. When you swap the booze for botanicals, you keep the connection and wake up to better mornings.
And this is exactly why we founded Terps & Co.
We believe in the transformational power of small changes adding up - especially when it comes to making healthier decisions around alcohol. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Try the swap every now and then, and you might just watch your world open up.
Each drink in our range is infused with a blend of 40 botanical terpenes, purposefully chosen to help you relax your nervous system and truly meet the moment - whatever that might be. No blurry nights, no fuzzy heads—just more of you present for the magic.
One Last Sip: Connection Never Goes Out of Style
So, whether you’re gathered on the beach at sunset, hosting a kitchen disco, or catching up over the world’s slowest cuppa, remember - it’s not the ABV, it’s the energy you bring and the company you keep.
The ritual of drinking together isn’t going anywhere. It’s just evolving - getting a little brighter, a little bolder, and a lot more inclusive. With every non-alc clink, you’re not just making a healthier choice; you’re shaping a new kind of culture - one where everyone gets to meet the moment, glass in hand.
Here’s to new memories, deeper connections, and the simple joy of being present.