A Buddhist Approach to Compulsive Eating, Food Addiction, and Emotional Sobriety, with Valerie Mason-JohnA Buddhist Approach to Compulsive Eating, Food Addiction, and Emotional Sobriety, with Valerie Mason-John
Flourishing After Addiction with Carl Erik Fisher
Valerie Mason-John shares their journey through food addiction, exploring Buddhist principles and alternative recovery methods.
56:00•15 Nov 2023
Finding Balance: A Buddhist Path to Overcoming Food Addiction
Episode Overview
- Valerie Mason-John shares their transformative journey through various addictions, particularly focusing on their struggle with bulimia
- Insights into the complexities of eating disorders and their commonalities with traditional addictions
- Discussion on the practice of morality as a path to recovery and the dangers of meditation for individuals with addiction and trauma histories
- Exploration of the relationship with traditional 12-step recovery and the formation of eight-step recovery circles as an alternative to traditional recovery models
- A short meditation practice at the conclusion of the episode, providing listeners with a practical tool for interrupting stinking thinking and promoting self-regulation
“Don't give up. It is having addictive and compulsive behaviors that you really want to stop, that you really want to put to bed. It's hard and I just really want to acknowledge that and really resonate with just how hard it is to get freedom and just to remember not to give up.”
Imagine navigating the turbulent waters of addiction with the calm guidance of Buddhist teachings. In this episode of 'Flourishing After Addiction', Carl Erik Fisher sits down with Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara, to explore their incredible journey from a challenging childhood in an orphanage to becoming a beacon of hope for those battling compulsive eating and food addiction.
Valerie's story is not just about overcoming bulimia; it's a testament to the interconnectedness of various addictions and the universal struggle for emotional sobriety. Valerie delves into the essence of addiction through a Buddhist lens, discussing how cravings and chronic relapses can be managed by achieving 'sobriety of thoughts and feelings'. They share insights on the dangers of meditation for individuals with addiction and trauma histories, while also emphasizing the importance of practical morality in recovery.
If you've ever wondered how Buddhist principles can aid in breaking free from addictive behaviors, this conversation offers a profound look at alternative recovery methods. One of the standout moments is Valerie's discussion on the Eight Step Recovery program they founded. This mutual help community offers a fresh perspective for those who might not resonate with traditional 12-step models. By redirecting focus towards balance and peace, rather than merely stopping harmful behaviors, Valerie provides a roadmap for sustainable recovery.
The episode wraps up with a short meditation practice, giving listeners a practical tool to interrupt negative thought patterns and promote self-regulation. Whether you're on your own recovery journey, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about alternative paths to healing, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.
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