Beth Osmer

Buddhism and Addiction

Buddhism

noun  Bud·dhism  \ˈbü-ˌdi-zəm, ˈbu̇-\

There are numerous addiction recovery programs that begin with the wrong mindset, seeing addiction as either a disease to be cured or a problem to fix. An accurate understanding of addiction is crucial for an effective program to address an addiction. Similar to my other blog post covering Shamanism, I would like to delve into how Buddhism can be used in recovery from addiction.

Buddhism is based on the traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices from the teachings of the Buddha. The teachings can be followed as a philosophy or as a religion. The “Four Noble Truths” comprise the essence of Buddha’s teachings. They include: the truth of suffering, the truth of the cause of suffering, the truth of the end of suffering, and the truth of the path that leads to the end of suffering.

buddhism addiction

One of the key elements of Buddhism is the importance of meditation and the practice of mindfulness. Mindfulness is a technique to calm the mind and be aware of your surroundings. The focus on calm and a meditative state can help on the healing journey of recovery.

Drawing inspiration from the core teachings of the Four Noble Truths, emphasis is placed on both knowledge and empathy as a means for overcoming addiction and its causes. Those struggling with any form of addiction greatly benefit when they are able to understand the suffering that addiction has created while developing compassion for the pain they have experienced.

Depth Hypnosis draws on Buddhism, as well as Shamanism, Energy Medicine, Hypnotherapy, and Transpersonal Psychology and has the ability to provide long lasting results. Healing can happen quickly and effectively for some people. A mindfulness-based recovery process can help ease the transition from an addiction.

In order to escape the suffering of addiction, one must let go of attachment to the addictive substance. Sometimes it is hard to fix a problem until you see it exists. Addiction is a craving and it is an escape from pain. For a path away from addiction, look to the Buddhism teachings. Mindfulness and meditation can be the key to an escape from the suffering that addiction causes.

ReFind is a great resource to engage with the teachings of Buddhism as part of your recovery from addiction. We offer programs with a variety of lengths and focuses tailored to help you where you need it. Contact us today for a free 30-minute consultation session. To book your appointment, click here.

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