Mindfulness and Recovery: Insights from Dr. Therissa Libby
Recovery thrives as we awaken to the present moment. Being aware of our breath, physical senses, and the activity in our mind leads to greater acceptance of ourselves, space to process our experience, and to make wise choices.
Imagine being able to calm your mind and make better choices in your recovery journey. That's what mindfulness can offer, and in this episode of 'Spirit of Recovery', hosts Rev. Dan Beckett and Rev. Michelle Vargas welcome Dr. Therissa Libby to discuss just that. Dr. Libby, an assistant professor and coordinator of the Alcohol and Drug Counseling M.S. Program at Metropolitan State University, shares her extensive research on the benefits of mindfulness for those in recovery.
With her background as a neuroscientist and addictions counselor, she breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand insights. Dr. Libby dives into how mindfulness practices can help you stay present, become more aware of your triggers, and ultimately make wiser choices. She explains how being mindful of your breath, physical sensations, and mental activity can lead to greater self-acceptance and space to process your experiences. This episode doesn't just stop at theory; it offers practical advice too.
From breathing exercises to body scans, you'll learn techniques to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life. One of the standout points in this episode is the discussion on mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP). Developed by Alan Marlatt and his team, MBRP adapts mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) principles to help those in early recovery manage cravings and triggers. Dr. Libby explains how these techniques can be a game-changer in preventing relapse and supporting long-term recovery.
The episode also touches on the emotional and spiritual benefits of mindfulness. By cultivating awareness and acceptance of your thoughts and feelings, you can find deeper meaning and purpose in your recovery journey. Dr. Libby’s practical tips make it easy to start integrating mindfulness into your routine, whether through simple breathing exercises or more structured practices like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT).
If you're looking for actionable insights and a deeper understanding of how mindfulness can support your recovery, this episode is a must-listen. It's packed with valuable information and practical techniques that can help you navigate the challenges of addiction recovery with greater ease and resilience.