Addiction & Vices

Addictions and vices arise for a myriad of reasons. Eventually, the mind and body need some relief. As a result, in comes substances or activities that change the mindset and provide a different feeling, a dopamine hit (a chemical in our brain that makes us feel better). It's so simple, it's the great escape! We want more relief, instant relief. May I compassionately share, we haven't paid the price to heal from our trauma, and we continue to marinate in the hurt.

I feel so much compassion for anyone struggling in this situation! I know that sometimes it seems that things are impossible. As I have watched a close family member go through drug use and try to figure out what life is supposed to be like, I have some gifts I would like to offer:

1. Remember, you are a child of Divine heritage, and you are living a Divine plan. You are innately good, and you are experiencing a path that will teach you lessons you need to learn to help others. Your path/life is perfect. We came to this Earth to experience - and that's what you are doing. Have confidence in your Divinity, your importance, your mission, and the effect your love can have in the world.

2. Take some time to be in the present moment. Sit down, close your eyes, feel anything that comes into your head and heart. Don't think about feeling - feel. Feel your emotions in the body. Don't think about the future or the past - in your mind that may look very different than reality - just stay in the present moment, and feel.

3. If that feels scary, find someone you can talk to, someone who you feel safe with. If you don't have someone like that, just keep feeling, you won't receive more than you can handle. Know that you are safe. You will be surprised at all of the healing that can take place within your own mind and body. You are perfect just as you are, and your life is exactly as it should be - just as it is.

4. May I also offer that sometimes our mind lies to us. The mind's job is to come up with thoughts; that's what it does. Some of those thoughts may not be true. With continued practice of feeling, loving, and humility, those faulty thoughts will fall by the wayside.

Remember, when you are in the present, you are exactly where you are supposed to be, and experiencing exactly what you are experiencing so you can heal and spiritually grow.

That's it. Take some time to heal, feel safe, and love. Maybe you will find some additional joy, peace, or the will to change the things you wish to improve upon.

With total compassion and love,

Laura