Mindfulness in Recovery

Mindfulness helps us pause before reacting, observe our thoughts without judgment, and recognize emotional patterns that once drove addictive behaviors. The 12 Steps offer a powerful spiritual framework for recovery, guiding us through surrender, self-examination, amends, and service. When paired with mindfulness—the practice of being fully present with acceptance—we gain deeper insight into each step and more compassion for ourselves along the way.

Here is how I look at the first 3 steps:

Step 1

Mindfully looking at how powerlessness and unmanageability show up.

Step 2

Asking what sort of Higher Power I can connect with? Then I become aware of physical/mental reactions to this exploration.

Good morning! Is anyone aware of any Dharma Revovery Meetings in Philadelphia?

Thank you!

Frankie

During our meeting tonight, Step 10 in the Woman's Way ends with the poem below. To me, it highlights my choice in recovery. I can choose another way today. What does it bring up for you?

“Portia Nelson acknowledges in her poem “Autobiography in Five Short Chapters”:

Chapter 1

I walk down the street.

There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.

I fall in.

Balance in recovery isn’t just about routines—it’s about harmony in the heart.

As we begin to make amends (Steps 8 & 9), we often come face to face with the emotions we've buried, the relationships we’ve strained, and the parts of ourselves we’ve tried to avoid.

This is heart chakra work.

The fourth chakra is the center of love, compassion, forgiveness, and connection. When it's in balance, we can give and receive love freely, set healthy emotional boundaries, and repair what’s been broken—with others and within ourselves.

💚 Making that list and going to those we’ve harmed isn't just about “righting wrongs.” It's a mindufl invitation to open the heart, to heal shame, and to live from a place of integrity and connection.

If you’re feeling unsteady in this part of your recovery, pause and check in with your heart. What needs softening? Who needs forgiving—including you? Notice how this feels…