Mindful Drinking Mocktails: Lila Volkas Shows How to Elevate Everyday Drinks

When it comes to mindful drinking, one of the most joyful discoveries is that non-alcoholic drinks don’t have to feel like an afterthought. They can be vibrant, layered, and celebratory in their own right. Few people embody this better than Lila Volkas, a holistic nutritionist, artist, and mocktail educator who has inspired thousands to re-imagine what goes into their glass.

This October, you can join her for an uplifting, hands-on session at the Moderation Mindset Virtual Summit:

👉 “Crafting Delicious, Alcohol-Free Drinks That Make Mindful Choices Feel Celebratory”
📅 Saturday, October 26th — 1:00–2:00 PM PT

How to Build a Non-Alcoholic Bar Cart: Everyday Mocktail Staples

In a recent blog post, Lila reminds us that some of the best mocktail ingredients are already hiding in plain sight—right in your pantry and fridge. A thoughtfully stocked “bar cart” doesn’t have to rely on pricey specialty spirits. Instead, everyday staples can provide complexity, balance, and creativity.

Here are just a few highlights from her “How to Build a Non-Alcoholic Bar Cart” guide:

• Teas and Infusions: Black tea for richness, green tea for brightness, hibiscus or rooibos for depth. Brewed strong or cold-steeped, teas make an excellent foundation for spritzes and highballs.
• Vinegars: From apple cider to balsamic, vinegars bring a tangy lift and subtle funk that mimics the complexity of wine or spirits.
• Syrups: Infused with herbs, spices, or fruit, syrups add sweetness and texture—perfect for rounding out a zero-proof cocktail.
• Citrus and Peels: Fresh juice for brightness, zest for aromatic oils, or oleosaccharum (sugar-macerated peels) for a concentrated punch.
• Carbonated Water & Juices: Effervescence adds energy, while thoughtful juice choices (like tart cherry or pineapple) bring both acidity and color.
• Garnishes: More than decoration—herbs, citrus wheels, or edible flowers engage the senses before the first sip.

With just these kitchen staples, you can create a home bar setup that’s playful, nourishing, and endlessly versatile.

Why Mindful Drinking Is About Celebration, Not Restriction

At Moderation Management™, we know that choosing a mindful or alcohol-free path doesn’t mean giving up on celebration. Lila’s approach shows how a few simple swaps can transform your kitchen into a creative space for connection and joy—one glass at a time.

Her upcoming panel at the Moderation Mindset Virtual Summit will bring these ideas to life, with recipes, techniques, and tips to make non-alcoholic cocktails that feel every bit as special as traditional ones.

Join the Moderation Mindset Virtual Summit for Mocktail Inspiration

Don’t miss your chance to learn directly from Lila and dozens of other experts on harm reduction, mindful drinking, emerging treatments, and more.

🎟️ Register for the Moderation Mindset Virtual Summit here

Come raise a glass—zero-proof or otherwise—with us this October.