With broad knowledge and an easy, conversational style, Dr. Ashok Bedi explores the dynamics of addiction and the need we all have for spiritual connection.
First we learn that addicts are trying to capture a mystery beyond their abilities. They are trying to connect with non-ordinary states of consciousness; either the luminous spirit, the depth of the soul or highly creative states. The problem is that although they are attracted to the spirit, soul and creativity their road to it is blocked. Instead of working slowly toward the numinous higher spirit they choose the spirit in the bottle, drugs, sex, gambling, work or internet. Ashok tells the story of how Carl Jung’s view of “Spiritum contra spiritus” came to shape the 12 Step Program of Alcoholics Anonymous.
In this course Ashok takes an in-depth look at the 12 Step program as principles for all life problems, not just addicts. He illustrates each of the steps with clinical and personal anecdotes, medical research and Hindu wisdom.
Ashok emphasizes the importance of learning a spiritual response to craving rather than an addictive response. He offers a dozen of his favorite ways to engage with the spirit directly.
Finally, Ashok discusses different types of meditation and evidence for their effectiveness in improving physical, mental and spiritual health. As an example of how to reach the spirit without hitting bottom or reaching for what you crave, Ashok leads a mindfulness practice.
Ashok reminds us that the goal of recovery is not just the alleviation of pain but to become who you are meant to be. The message is true for all of us: it’s better to get what you need, not what you want. What we all need is a real connection to the Higher and Deeper power.
Course Schedule:
Class 1.
In this class Ashok presents the dynamics of the spiritual paradox of addiction. Individuals with addictions have a high spiritual drive but lack the mental apparatus to experience the numinous dimension of consciousness. Ashok explores this in the context of Carl Jung – Bill W. correspondence. He takes an in-depth look at what Jung meant by “spiritus contra spiritum” in his private letters to the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. He also discusses trauma as the core dynamic of addiction. Dissociated pain can cause cravings for relief with self-medication. If we permit ourselves to feel the pain we’ve won half the battle against addiction.
Class 2.
In this class Ashok delves into The Twelve Steps program as the Jacob’s ladder from addiction to sobriety. Each of the 12 steps is briefly explored using the Eastern, Jungian and Neuroscientific lens. The steps include making a confession of powerlessness, surrender to a higher power, making a searching moral inventory of our character, cultivation of the observing ego that accepts accountability, developing reflection before action, humility, knowing who we’ve harmed, making amends where it’s appropriate, maintaining the personal inventory, praying and meditating to know God’s will, repaying your debt to the community through service.
The Twelve Steps are included in the hand outs for the participants.
Class 3.
In this class Ashok presents some yardsticks for measuring recovery from addiction, or simply if one is on track spiritually. He explores many ways to find guidance and connect to spirit and soul: the alchemical relationship to life, moving from the valley of despair to the mountain of reflection, seeing new creative potentials, learning to let things be, wandering and circumambulation, consulting God, yourself and someone you trust, balancing compassion and detachment, fellowship, and service. Walking these paths you’ll find you’re more open to mystical experiences in your everyday life.
Class 4.
Ashok touches on the positive side of addictive personalities. He briefly mentions the role of psychoactive substances in psychiatric treatment. He discusses cravings and stress-management and describes various Eastern contemplative methods to ways to both manage stress and engage the spirit. Ashok guides us through a brief Mindfulness practice that helps us invoke the relaxation response. He shares modern Neuroscience research on the many health benefits of these ancient methods. Ashok closes by reminding us that we all need to tend to our own healing and make the world a better place than we found it.