Try kava. Your first shell starts here.

Kava is a root from the South Pacific, ground, mixed with water and poured into a shell. It relaxes your body and keeps your head clear. It tastes like bitter earth, so drink it all at once and follow it with a chaser. Numb lips mean it's working.

Tell the kavatender it's your first time; they'll steer you. When someone calls “Shells up!”, raise your shell. Then it's “Bula!”, and everyone drinks. Some bars have a First Time Guide poster by the door: scan it for a one-minute walkthrough.

Kava bars open early and close late, so go whenever suits you: after work, a lazy afternoon, or late.

Kava isn't alcohol. Whether it fits your recovery is your call, and your program's. Kratom is a different plant and can be habit-forming, so ask which drinks have it.

Never mix kava with alcohol. Skip it if you're pregnant, nursing, or have liver problems.

Need support? SAMHSA's National Helpline is free, confidential and open 24/7: 1-800-662-4357.