This cocktail came about late one evening. I’d planned to chat with friends via Zoom and it was a “cocktail party” but I had nothing made to drink. Having had back pain all day (and back pain for about 2 months) I grabbed what I had on hand and it turned out to be quite a tasty drink!

I now make it with a smile whenever I’m experiencing severe pain. I’ve spent many months over the years curled up into a ball because of my back problems. It seemed like it was high time to make the most of slipped disks, spinal stenosis, and chronic neuropathy coupled with chronic sciatica.

Recipe: On Your Back

• 8-12 ounces hot Celestial Seasonings Lemon Zinger tea
• 1 shot limoncello
• 1 shot bourbon whisky
• 1 Tablespoon simple syrup

There are no fancy directions. Just mix all of the ingredients in a mug and enjoy. (I mean, your back hurts. I don’t want to prolong standing at the counter to make this. You need to lie down and rest a spell.)

Since I’m already prescribed over a dozen medications daily for chronic conditions, my primary physician, immunologist, and physical therapist have all agreed that one cocktail is healthier for me to use for severe pain than prescription pain pills which can lead to addiction and other undesirable side effects. So, when I have terrible pain, for the majority of the time I just live with it, but when it gets to be too much, I have a drink. They tend to change with the seasons though and this one is definitely my new favorite for fall.

And lastly, if you plan to make this, please drink responsibly.