Best of: How to Use Mindfulness to Quit Drinking

Best of: How to Use Mindfulness to Quit Drinking

Ever thought about how being present in the moment could change your relationship with alcohol? In this episode of 'Alcohol Tipping Point', host Deb Mazenor brings back Megan O’Laughlin, a counselor and mindfulness instructor, to dive into the practical ways mindfulness can aid in quitting drinking. Megan breaks down what mindfulness truly is—being fully engaged in the here and now—and dispels the myth that it’s all about long meditation sessions.

Instead, she emphasizes simple, everyday practices that can make a big difference. Megan also guides listeners through a hands-on mindfulness activity designed to help manage anxiety and cravings. Imagine being able to sit with your discomfort rather than trying to escape it—this episode shows you how. By incorporating mindfulness into daily life, you can learn to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, which can be a game-changer for anyone struggling with alcohol cravings or triggers.

The conversation also touches on how mindfulness can act as exposure therapy, a method often used to treat phobias. By practicing mindfulness, you get better at facing your fears head-on without the need to numb yourself. Megan shares practical tips for weaving mindfulness into your routine, from taking a few moments each day to notice your surroundings to exploring books and courses on the subject. To wrap things up, the episode introduces Alcohol Tipping Point's new program, Mindful AF.

This program offers weekly lessons, guided meditations, and a supportive community aimed at helping participants use mindfulness to support their sobriety journey. If you're curious about how mindfulness can help you change your drinking habits and improve your mental well-being, this episode is a must-listen.