The global shift towards holistic wellness has seen alcohol-free movements, such as Dry January, grow in popularity. Now, its springtime counterpart – Ocsober – is gaining momentum in South Africa, encouraging people to stay sober throughout October as a way to reset their bodies, improve their health, and explore alcohol-free alternatives.
The demand for non-alcoholic beverages has soared, with major brands creating zero-alcohol beers, wines, gins, and whiskies. Gen Z, in particular, is leading the ‘sober curious’ lifestyle, making healthier choices that prioritise clarity and wellbeing.
This couldn’t be more relevant for South Africa, currently ranked 5th globally for alcohol abuse, with excessive drinking linked to over 60 medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, liver damage, and mental health concerns.
Why a Month Without Alcohol Matters
Research indicates that even brief periods of abstinence have significant health benefits. According to studies published in the British Medical Journal and the University of Sussex:
- Insulin resistance improves by around 25%, lowering diabetes risk.
- Blood pressure drops, often comparable to medication effects.
- Average weight loss reaches nearly 2kg.
- Liver function improves and inflammation decreases.
- Many participants maintain lower alcohol intake afterwards.
Candice Sessions, Marketing Manager at Laager Rooibos, says:
“We believe Ocsober is the perfect opportunity for South Africans to reflect on the role that alcohol plays in their lives and experiment with health-enhancing beverages.”
Tips for Getting Through Ocsober
- Buddy up: Partner with a friend for accountability.
- Stay social: Plan fun, alcohol-free activities and hobbies.
- Stock alternatives: Try non-alcoholic drinks or mix your own mocktails.
Mocktails to Try This Ocsober
Laager Rooibos Pina Colada by @WithlovefromtheTwins
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
- 1 cup coconut milk or cream
- ½ cup Laager Pure Rooibos iced cubes
- ½ cup pineapple juice
Method:
- Brew Laager Rooibos, cool, freeze in an ice tray.
- Blend all ingredients.
- Serve in a cocktail glass, garnish with dried pineapple.
Laager Ginger & Mint Mocktail by @ibtesam_essa
Ingredients:
- 6 cups water
- 3 Laager Citrus & Ginger Green Rooibos tea bags
- Rind of 1 orange
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick, 2 cloves, 1 star anise
- Ginger ale lemonade
- Sea salt, rosemary sprig, lemon slice
Method:
- Simmer water, tea bags, sugar, rind, and spices until syrup forms.
- Cool, strain, and discard solids.
- Pour syrup over ice, top with lemonade.
- Garnish with lemon, rosemary, and cinnamon.
A Fresh Take on Wellness
Ocsober is more than a temporary challenge – it’s a gateway to long-term healthier choices, social connection, and self-discovery. With more alcohol-free options available, including creative rooibos-based mocktails, it’s easier than ever for South Africans to join the movement.
