Is Addiction Really A Spiritual Problem? (Part 2)Is Addiction Really A Spiritual Problem? (Part 2)
Alive and Free
Addiction doesn’t say more about you as a person than a runny nose. But we often stop looking at ourselves as humans and start seeing ourselves as “addicts”. Not only does this keep us enslaved to our compulsions, but it fills us with guilt and...
21:23•1 Jul 2021
Rewiring Your Approach to Addiction: Skills Over Spirituality
“Addiction doesn’t say more about you as a person than a runny nose. But we often stop looking at ourselves as humans and start seeing ourselves as “addicts”. Not only does this keep us enslaved to our compulsions, but it fills us with guilt and shame.”
Ever felt trapped by the notion that addiction is a moral failing or a spiritual flaw? In this episode of 'Alive and Free', Bob Gardner flips the script on this common belief. Instead of viewing addiction as a spiritual problem, Bob presents it as a behavior that can be unlearned with the right skills and support.
He dives into why traditional recovery programs often miss the mark and how they can sometimes keep people stuck in cycles of guilt and shame. Bob's approach is refreshingly practical, likening the process of overcoming addiction to learning how to ride a bike – it takes practice, patience, and the right guidance. One of the standout moments in this episode is Bob's discussion on the 'Broken Bone Approach', which focuses on healing without adding more suffering.
He also shares an unexpected analogy involving 'infant poop' to illustrate how we can free ourselves from compulsive behaviors. Whether you're struggling with addiction yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a new perspective that could change everything. Tune in to learn how reframing addiction as a skill-based issue can pave the way to true freedom.

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