Amy Reed's Path: Finding Sobriety and Community with Recovery Dharma
I think that Buddhist recovery kind of tends to attract more counterculture folks, because it is, it's not the norm, it's not the way. And so I think it takes like, it takes a certain kind of personality to like, question that mainstream norm and go and try something new.
Imagine moving to a new town and feeling lost, not just geographically but also in your journey to sobriety. This is what happened to Amy Reed when she relocated to Asheville, NC. A writer by profession, Amy initially found solace in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous in Oakland, CA, back in 2008. However, her move in 2014 left her struggling to find a new recovery community.
That was until she stumbled upon a flyer for Refuge Recovery in a café, which led her to a meeting that would change her life. By summer 2016, Amy had discovered a program that resonated deeply with her - Recovery Dharma, a blend of Buddhist teachings and recovery principles. In this episode, Amy shares her transformative journey from feeling adrift to becoming an active member of the Refuge Recovery community.
She delves into how she started a dedicated meditation practice and eventually took on leadership roles within the organization. Her commitment led her to co-write 'The Dharma of Recovery' and represent the newly formed Recovery Dharma at major conferences. Amy's story is not just about finding sobriety; it's about finding a sense of belonging and purpose through mindfulness and community. She talks about how Recovery Dharma attracts those who question mainstream norms and offers an alternative path to healing.
If you're curious about how Buddhist principles can enhance your recovery journey or looking for a supportive community, Amy's experiences might just inspire you to explore Recovery Dharma. Tune in to hear Amy Reed, Vimalasara, and Sara discuss the ins and outs of Buddhist recovery and the impact it can have on your life.