Breaking Free: How Mindfulness Can Transform Habits
Episode Overview
Recognise habit loops by identifying triggers, behaviours, and rewards. Use mindfulness to update reward values and change perceptions. Find alternative rewards that are more satisfying than the habit. Curiosity can help diminish cravings by shifting focus. Real-life examples demonstrate the effectiveness of these strategies.
"Curiosity over cake – exploring cravings can actually help them dissipate."
Are you ready to break free from those pesky habits that seem to cling like chewing gum to the bottom of your shoe? This episode of The Dr. Jud Podcast, hosted by addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Jud Brewer, is a fascinating exploration of habit loops and how they impact our lives, especially when it comes to anxiety and smoking. With a touch of humour and heaps of empathy, Dr.
Brewer takes listeners on a journey through the science of habits, making complex ideas accessible and relatable. Dr. Brewer's approach is all about understanding the brain's wiring and how habits form. He explains that habits run on autopilot through cycles known as habit loops, which consist of a trigger, a behaviour, and a reward. These loops can lead to negative behaviours like stress eating or smoking, driven by our brain's desire to seek pleasure or avoid discomfort. Dr.
Brewer shares intriguing insights into how mindfulness can help update these reward values, allowing us to see habits in real-time and ultimately change them. Through engaging anecdotes and research-backed strategies, Dr. Brewer introduces a three-step process to break free from unwanted habits. First, he suggests recognising your habit loops by mapping out the trigger, behaviour, and reward. Then, it's all about updating the reward value by being mindful of the actual experience rather than the anticipated reward.
Finally, he encourages finding a 'bigger, better offer' – an alternative that feels more rewarding than the habit you're trying to kick. You'll also hear inspiring stories of real-life transformations where individuals have successfully changed their habits using these methods. So, if you're tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of bad habits, this episode offers practical tools and fresh perspectives to help you make lasting changes. Ready to become a detective of your own mind and uncover healthier habits?
Dive into this episode and discover how mindfulness can be your secret weapon against those pesky cravings.