Tenth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

Through this focused discussion, participants will be able to: 1) define spirituality; 2) define the Twelve Step approach to spirituality; 3) define the Buddhist approach to spirituality; 4) report on the synergistic alliance between Twelve Steps and Buddhism; 5) articulate and compare Buddhist psychology and Western third wave psychotherapy; 6) articulate the therapeutic benefits of Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP); and 7) experience/practice one (1) insight meditation and one (1) loving-kindness meditation (Metta). I provide evidenced-based research from MBRP and the research of Alderman, B.L.; Bowen S.; Vieten, C.; Witkiewitz, K.; Chawla, N.; Linehan, M.M.; Hayes, S.; Wilson K.; Kabat-Zinn, J.; Holzel, B.K. and Marlatt, S.G. These researchers conform the practical applications of MBRP for using Twelve Step and Buddhist psychology in revcovery from co-occurring disorders and chemical dependency, and relapse prevention. Participants learn how MBRP and the spiritual practices of the Twelve Steps and Buddhist psychology help strengthen their ability to manage their emotions and make valued-based actions. The intention is that after this discussion, attendees will use MBRP practices in their private lives, and teach their clients to use the learned practices. The hope is that building Mindfulness, Meditation, and Spiritual practices of the Twelve Steps and/or Buddhist psychology can prevent relapse for those in recovery from addiction, and that attendees and their clients can find spiritual pathways to cultivate joy and happiness and compassion for themselves, others, and their environment.