Mary Tilson

Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast

Mary Tilson

  • #78: Buddhist Teachings to Overcome Addiction with Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason-John

#78: Buddhist Teachings to Overcome Addiction with Valerie (Vimalasara) Mason-John

Monday 16th October 2023

Valerie Mason-John discusses her path to recovery using Buddhist teachings and mindfulness in the 'Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast'.
54 minutes
Transformative
Informative
Inspiring
Empowering
Hopeful

About this podcast

Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast
Author:
Mary Tilson
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Creative Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Recovery from Trauma
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Buddhist Wisdom and Addiction: Valerie Mason-John's Journey

Episode Overview

  • Valerie Mason-John shares her journey of overcoming addiction and intertwining mindfulness training and Buddhist teachings.
  • The discussion delves into the addictive components of disordered eating and their resemblance to traditional substance addiction.
  • Mason-John offers insights into the interconnectedness of mental states and the potential for change within the human realm.
  • Her candid conversation sheds light on recovery, trauma, and the pursuit of freedom.
  • Listeners are invited to explore the transformative power of Buddhist teachings in addiction recovery.
I knew I was going on retreat for three weeks because I knew I would get high and have altered states from meditating. Meditation is very different now, but it still makes me experience positivity, feeling good, and calm.
Why do we turn to harmful habits even when we know they hurt us? In this episode of the 'Sun & Moon Sober Living Podcast', Mary Tilson sits down with Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara, to explore this profound question. Valerie, a celebrated poet, author, and public speaker, shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming addiction through the lens of Buddhist teachings.
She delves into the relationship between sexual trauma and eating disorders, shedding light on how these issues intertwine with substance addiction. Through mindfulness training and nervous system regulation, Valerie reveals how Buddhist principles can pave the way to recovery. She discusses her co-authored book, 'Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha’s Teachings to Overcome Addiction', which offers practical steps for those struggling with addictive behaviors.
From the concept of the Hungry Ghost, representing insatiable cravings, to the importance of being of service in recovery, Valerie's insights are both enlightening and empowering. If you're curious about how ancient wisdom can aid modern recovery, this episode offers a unique and inspiring perspective.