The Spiritual Paradox of Addiction

Course overview

Dr. Bedi will be speaking to the issue of the high degree of spiritual drive he has found in individuals with whom he has worked who have dealt with mental illnesses in general and addiction in particular. Carl Jung, in his counsel to his patient Roland Herrington, prescribed that he needed a sort of religious or conversion experience to claim his sobriety. In his book, The Spiritual Paradox of Addiction, Dr. Bedi posits that instead of using addictive behaviors to attain connection with Spirit or the deeper, higher, and creative consciousness, recovering addicts can learn to engage with Spirit directly, thus making the addictive detours unnecessary. His thoughts and guidance to Spirit are applicable to all of us no matter our mental health, addictions, or daily living. Learning Objectives Discuss the dynamics of the spiritual paradox of addiction Present the Jung, Bill W. dialogue to understand the context of the 12 Steps program Explore the 12 Steps program from an Eastern and Analytical lens Explain the anatomy of the experience of connection with the spiritual life Illustrate the contemplative practice of Mindfulness as a path to the Spirit