Episodes

  • Riding the Pink Cloud: The Highs and Lows of Sobriety - A Deep Dive

    Riding the Pink Cloud: The Highs and Lows of Sobriety - A Deep Dive
    Jul 22 2024

    Welcome to another episode of "Sisters in Sobriety." Today, Sonia and Kathleen tackle the highs and lows of the early sobriety journey. They'll break down the "pink cloud" phase and share tips on handling sobriety fatigue, making sure you're well-prepared for the ride ahead.

    In this chat, Sonia and Kathleen discuss the pink cloud—those early days of sobriety when everything feels amazing. They’ll answer questions like: What is the pink cloud? How long does it last? Why do we experience sobriety fatigue? And how can we deal with it? These insights will help you stay balanced and motivated.

    You’ll learn about the temporary nature of the pink cloud, how to stay grounded, and practical strategies to overcome sobriety fatigue. Topics include the physical and mental perks of early sobriety, the challenges of long-term recovery, and the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and support networks.

    The episode also features personal stories, including Sonia's struggles with sobriety fatigue and Kathleen's reflections on her early sobriety.

    This is "Sisters in Sobriety," the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.

    Links

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sisters In Sobriety Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram


    Highlights:
    [00:02:08] What the pink cloud is and why it matters.
    [00:02:29] Introduction to sobriety fatigue.
    [00:04:00] Sonia’s first sober high.
    [00:05:00] Understanding the temporary pink cloud.
    [00:06:53] Kathleen’s personal experience with early sobriety and fatigue.
    [00:09:00] How the pink cloud affects mental health and relationships.
    [00:10:30] Staying grounded during the pink cloud phase.
    [00:11:18] Feelings during the pink cloud.
    [00:12:46] How long the pink cloud lasts.
    [00:13:25] Why the pink cloud can be misleading.
    [00:14:24] Staying motivated after the pink cloud.
    [00:15:33] Navigating relationships while on the pink cloud.
    [00:18:13] Common setbacks after the pink cloud.
    [00:19:18] Managing expectations during early sobriety.
    [00:20:51] Prepping for the end of the pink cloud.
    [00:22:26] Sonia’s experience with sobriety fatigue and how she copes.
    [00:24:00] Kathleen talks about the value of gratitude in sobriety.
    [00:26:09] Recognizing symptoms of sobriety fatigue.
    [00:27:31] Effective strategies for dealing with sobriety fatigue.
    [00:28:13] Importance of mindfulness and self-care.
    [00:29:00] Impact of sobriety fatigue on mental health.
    [00:31:12] Role of therapy and counseling in recovery.
    [00:32:45] The significance of self-compassion in overcoming fatigue.
    [00:34:44] How support groups like Everbloom can help.
    [00:35:39] How family and friends can support during sobriety fatigue.
    [00:36:43] Turning challenges into growth opportunities.
    [00:37:51] Maintaining a balanced perspective on sobriety.
    [00:38:57] Final reflections and takeaways from the discussion.
    Show more Show less
    40 mins
  • Changing The Game: Jon Kostas on Psychedelic Therapy for Alcohol Use Disorder

    Changing The Game: Jon Kostas on Psychedelic Therapy for Alcohol Use Disorder
    Jul 15 2024
    Join Sonia in this episode of Sisters in Sobriety as she sits down with Jon Kostas, an inspiring advocate for addiction recovery and a trailblazer in the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) for alcohol use disorder. Jon’s journey from struggling with alcoholism to finding a path to sobriety through PAT is nothing short of transformative. His mission? To make this life-changing treatment accessible to everyone who needs it.Jon Kostas made history as the first person to complete a clinical trial at New York University studying psilocybin-assisted therapy for alcohol use disorder. He credits this therapy with curing his stubborn alcoholism and saving his life. Now, he’s on a mission to spread the word and help others through his organization, the Apollo Pact, which raises awareness and promotes psychedelic research by working with researchers and Congress.Sonia and Jon dive into some fascinating topics: What drove Jon to try psilocybin therapy after other treatments failed? How does this unique therapy work, and what sets it apart from traditional methods? What are the potential benefits and risks? This episode sheds light on the exciting world of psychedelic therapy and its promise for addiction recovery.Get ready to learn about the science behind psilocybin therapy and its potential to treat a range of mental health issues. Jon breaks down the rigorous clinical trial process, why medical supervision is crucial, and how advocacy plays a key role in advancing this groundbreaking research. Keywords like "psilocybin-assisted therapy," "psychedelic research," and "addiction recovery" will pop up throughout, making complex ideas easy to understand.Jon’s personal story is incredibly relatable. He opens up about his battles with alcohol, the many recovery attempts that didn’t stick, and how psilocybin therapy turned his life around. His journey from hopelessness to hope will resonate with anyone facing similar struggles. As he shares his current advocacy efforts, Jon paints a hopeful picture of the future of addiction treatment.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.*Jon was interviewed by Anderson Cooper for 60 Minutes, Harry Smith for NBC’s TODAY Show, Nightly News with Lester Holt, Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist, and Michael Pollan for How to Change Your Mind. He has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Fox, CBS, NBC, CNN, TIME Magazine, New York Post, Washington Post, U.S. News & World Report, among other national outlets.Highlights:[00:01:14] - Introduction of Jon Kostas, his journey from alcoholism to recovery through psychedelic-assisted therapy.[00:02:00] - Jon discusses the founding of the Apollo Pact and its mission to change addiction treatment.[00:02:37] - Jon shares a bit about his early life and what led him to begin his recovery journey.[00:04:00] - Jon describes his first experience with AA meetings and how it resonated with him.[00:07:00] - Sonia asks Jon if he continued drinking after his first AA meeting, and Jon explains his struggle with maintaining sobriety.[00:08:50] - Jon talks about his experience with numerous treatment attempts and the frustration of treatment-resistant alcoholism.[00:11:00] - Discussion about the perception of alcoholism as a disease and how it impacts patients.[00:12:30] - Jon shares his thoughts on the guilt and moral hangovers associated with drinking.[00:16:00] - Jon explains his initial fear and hesitation about entering the psilocybin-assisted therapy trial.[00:19:00] - Description of the screening and preparation process for the psilocybin sessions.[00:21:00] - Jon describes the setup and environment of his first psilocybin therapy session.[00:24:00] - Jon shares the transformative experience during his first psilocybin session and the realization of its impact.[00:26:00] - Jon discusses the symbolism he experienced during his sessions, such as seeing a liquor bottle disintegrate.[00:28:00] - Insights into the peacefulness Jon felt during a death experience in one of his sessions.[00:30:00] - Jon talks about the difference between psilocybin therapy and other treatments like ketamine.[00:32:00] - Explanation of the legal status of psilocybin and the importance of clinical trials for approval.[00:34:00] - Jon emphasizes the need for proper medical supervision and the safety of psilocybin treatment.[00:36:20] - Discussion about the potential for FDA approval and making psilocybin treatment more accessible.[00:38:00] - Jon talks about the advocacy work of the Apollo Pact and its role in advancing psychedelic research.[00:44:00] - Jon reflects on how his understanding of recovery has evolved and the importance of new treatment approaches.Links:Find Out More About Jon's Work Here - www.apollopact.orgSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety ...
    Show more Show less
    56 mins
  • Sparkle in Sobriety: Rediscovering Joy Without Alcohol

    Sparkle in Sobriety: Rediscovering Joy Without Alcohol
    Jul 8 2024

    In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," Kathleen and Sonia tackle a fear many in recovery face: wondering if all the fun ends when you choose sobriety. Spoiler alert—it doesn't! They dive into how life without alcohol can be more vibrant and full of genuine joy, with the sparkle just beginning.

    Kathleen and Sonia chat about how our ideas of fun change in sobriety, what it means to truly thrive, and how to find joy in the little things. They bust some myths about fun in sobriety and share their own experiences. Keywords: sobriety, joy, recovery, genuine connection, vibrant life.

    Listeners will pick up tips on discovering the "sparkle of sobriety," redefining what fun means, and making authentic connections. Kathleen and Sonia discuss how to handle social events without drinking, deal with FOMO, and find activities that genuinely interest you.

    In the personal story segment, Sonia and Kathleen share how their ideas of fun have evolved since getting sober. They recount memorable, joyful moments and talk about the ups and downs of finding new ways to enjoy life. These stories are relatable and inspiring for anyone on the sober journey.

    This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.

    Highlights:
    [00:00:55] - Sonia and Kathleen introduce the episode and discuss the common fear of losing fun in sobriety.

    [00:01:26] - Sonia shares Mary Carr’s quote about finding true sparkle in sobriety, setting the tone for the episode.

    [00:02:14] - Kathleen explains how sobriety can lead to a vibrant life with genuine joy.

    [00:02:31] - Sonia encourages listeners to grab their favorite non-alcoholic drink and get comfortable.

    [00:03:00] - Kathleen describes how her definition of fun has evolved since becoming sober.

    [00:03:46] - Sonia talks about the clarity and awe that comes with sobriety, sharing her experience with a memorable sunset.

    [00:05:01] - Kathleen shares how feeling physically amazing was a turning point for seeing joy in sobriety.

    [00:06:16] - Sonia recounts her sober trip to Italy and how it changed her perspective on fun and vacations.

    [00:08:15] - Sonia reflects on how her wild and crazy persona was shaped by alcohol and her fear of losing it.

    [00:09:51] - Sonia discusses finding real, authentic fun by leaning into things and people she loves.

    [00:11:01] - Kathleen talks about how sobriety can boost self-confidence and improve social interactions.

    [00:12:13] - Sonia explains how sobriety helps uncover the true self hidden under the influence of alcohol.

    [00:13:25] - Kathleen emphasizes the importance of aligning fun activities with personal values.

    [00:14:12] - Sonia debunks the myth that alcohol reveals our true selves, sharing her negative experiences.

    [00:16:20] - Kathleen describes how sobriety allows for a deeper connection with passions and interests.

    [00:17:12] - Sonia suggests looking back to childhood for inspiration on fun activities in sobriety.

    [00:19:13] - Kathleen shares how her social life changed drastically after getting sober.

    [00:21:35] - Sonia talks about finding joy in spontaneous moments with family, like making a lemon pie with her niece.

    [00:23:47] - Kathleen describes her ideal fun weekend now, focusing on nature and exploring new things.

    [00:25:34] - Sonia and Kathleen discuss creating new traditions for holidays and celebrations to maintain sobriety and have fun.

    Links:

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sisters In Sobriety Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram
    Show more Show less
    39 mins
  • Mindful Recovery: Buddhist Teachings and Sobriety with Vimalasara

    Mindful Recovery: Buddhist Teachings and Sobriety with Vimalasara
    Jul 1 2024
    In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," host Sonia Kahlon is joined by the inspiring Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara. Valerie is a renowned author and public speaker whose work in the field of addiction and recovery has made a profound impact. Today, Sonia explores Valerie's unique approach to addiction recovery, which blends mindfulness, compassion, and holistic practices. They will be discussing Valerie’s journey, their groundbreaking methodologies, and how these can help listeners on their own sobriety journeys.Valerie Mason-John (Vimalasara) is the author of several acclaimed books, including "Eight Step Recovery: Using the Buddha’s Teachings to Overcome Addiction" and "Detox Your Heart: Meditations for Emotional Trauma." They are also a public speaker and co-founder of the international Mindfulness-Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR) program. With their extensive background in both addiction recovery and Buddhism, Valerie offers a unique perspective that combines practical strategies with spiritual insights. Their latest book, "First Aid Kit for the Mind: Breaking the Cycle of Habitual Behaviors," continues to provide valuable tools for those seeking recovery.Throughout the episode, listeners will delve into key questions such as: What are the primary triggers for addictive behaviors? How can mindfulness and meditation be integrated into recovery practices? What role does self-compassion play in overcoming addiction? By addressing these questions, the episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies for listeners on their sobriety journey.Educational takeaways from this episode include understanding the habit loop of addiction, the importance of creating a personalized recovery plan, and techniques for managing cravings and triggers. Listeners will also learn about the benefits of meditation and mindfulness, and how these practices can support long-term recovery and emotional well-being.In the personal story segment, Valerie shares their journey from struggling with addiction to becoming a leader in the recovery community. Their candid account of overcoming challenges and finding empowerment through mindfulness and compassion is both moving and motivational. Valerie also discusses how their Buddhist practice has shaped their approach to addiction and recovery, providing deeper insights into the spiritual aspects of their journey.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights:[00:01:00] - Introduction to Valerie Mason-John, also known as Vimalasara, author and public speaker with a profound impact on the field of addiction and recovery.[00:02:00] - Valerie's early life and initial struggles with addiction, including sugar and shoe cleaner.[00:04:00] - Valerie discussing the challenges of disordered eating and their journey with bulimia and anorexia.[00:06:00] - The turning point in Valerie's life when they realized the need to seek recovery.[00:07:30] - Valerie’s experience working with women in rehab and the influence of the Petrasca cycle of change.[00:09:00] - The beginning of Valerie’s sobriety journey and the role of meditation and mindfulness.[00:10:20] - Valerie’s one-woman show and how it influenced their recovery from disordered eating.[00:11:00] - The role of specialized treatment in Valerie’s recovery from disordered eating.[00:12:30] - Valerie discussing the importance of mindfulness and meditation in their recovery.[00:13:30] - How Buddhist teachings, particularly the Four Noble Truths, shaped Valerie's approach to recovery.[00:15:00] - Valerie explaining the concept of “going for refuge” in Buddhism and its impact on their recovery.[00:17:00] - The significance of letting go in the context of recovery and stopping addictive behaviors.[00:19:00] - The story of Angulimala and its relevance to addiction recovery.[00:22:00] - The difference between stopping a thought and spiritual bypassing in recovery.[00:23:30] - Valerie's perspective on self-love and compassion as critical components of recovery.[00:25:00] - The importance of addressing childhood conditioning and trauma in the recovery process.[00:27:00] - Valerie distinguishing between mindfulness and meditation and their interconnection.[00:30:00] - The realization that the biggest addiction was their own thinking and how to manage stinking thinking.[00:34:00] - The practice of recognizing thoughts without a thinker and understanding that thoughts are not facts.[00:40:00] - Valerie explaining the concept of coming home to the body and its significance in recoverLinks:First Aid Kit for the Mind BookValerie Mason-John's WebsiteSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters In Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram
    Show more Show less
    52 mins
  • VACATIONING SOBER: How to Enjoy Time Away Without Alcohol

    VACATIONING SOBER: How to Enjoy Time Away Without Alcohol
    Jun 24 2024

    Today on Sisters in Sobriety, Sonia and Kathleen dive into the unique challenges and joys of vacationing while maintaining sobriety. They share their personal journeys and practical tips to help you navigate your next getaway with confidence and ease. Whether you're planning a family visit, a beach retreat, or a solo adventure, this episode is packed with insights to support your sober travel experience.

    In this episode, Sonia and Kathleen tackle the big questions that come with sober vacationing. How do you handle unexpected triggers? What strategies can you use to maintain your routine? And how do you navigate cultural differences around alcohol consumption? These discussions are crucial for anyone in recovery, ensuring you're well-prepared and supported on your trip.

    You'll walk away with practical tips for packing, creating a supportive itinerary, and developing strategies for social situations involving alcohol. The hosts cover essential topics like managing anxiety, setting boundaries, and finding joy in new experiences, all while staying true to your sobriety.

    Sonia shares her transformative experience of a trip to Italy booked before her sobriety journey, offering candid insights on navigating wine tours and social pressures. Kathleen recounts her enriching, sober trip to Hawaii, highlighting how sobriety opened up new opportunities for connection and self-care.

    This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.

    Highlights:

    0:00 - Introduction: Navigating Sobriety on Vacation
    6:30 - The Unique Challenges of Vacationing Sober
    8:45 - Planning Ahead: Why It’s Crucial
    10:20 - Strategies for Managing Triggers
    12:15 - Importance of Maintaining Routine
    14:05 - How to Handle Social Situations with Alcohol
    16:10 - Tips for Navigating Airports and Flights Sober
    18:50 - Kathleen’s Experience with FOMO on Vacation
    21:00 - Sonia’s Story: Sober Trip to Italy
    24:30 - Kathleen’s Story: Sober Trip to Hawaii
    26:45 - Cultural Differences Around Alcohol Consumption
    29:20 - How to Communicate Sobriety to Friends and Family
    32:15 - Creating a Supportive Travel Itinerary
    34:00 - Finding Joy in New, Alcohol-Free Experiences
    36:10 - Practical Tips for Packing and Preparing
    38:00 - Mocktail Hour: Favorite Non-Alcoholic Beverages
    40:25 - Personal Story: Sonia’s Struggles and Triumphs
    42:00 - Wrap-Up: Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

    Links

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sisters In Sobriety Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram
    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • Part II of Art as Therapy: Transforming Recovery with Sarah Smith

    Part II of Art as Therapy: Transforming Recovery with Sarah Smith
    Jun 17 2024
    This week on Sisters in Sobriety, we explore the transformative power of art therapy in addiction recovery. Joining us is Sarah Smith who will guide us through the fascinating intersections of creativity and healing. Sarah is a passionate artist and non-traditional art therapist, owning Soul-Full Art Therapy where she helps individuals explore the wellness benefits of the creative process. Sarah is a member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) and has chosen to maintain her focus on art for wellness rather than merging with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She facilitates art workshops at Sweet Spot Family Counselling and offers private sessions for individuals seeking a creative outlet for wellness. Her servIn this episode, we dive deep into the role of art as a therapeutic tool. Key questions we'll explore include: How can art therapy support individuals in their recovery journey? Do you need to be artistically talented to benefit from art therapy? What are some practical ways to incorporate art therapy techniques at home? These discussions will highlight keywords such as "art therapy," "addiction recovery," and "creative healing." Listeners will gain insight into several key concepts, including the importance of open-mindedness in art therapy, how art therapy can complement other forms of therapy like mindfulness and physical exercise, and the cognitive and emotional benefits of engaging in creative processes. We'll also discuss practical art therapy exercises like art journaling, and how to identify and interpret personal symbols in your artwork. Our guest, Sarah, shares her compelling personal story about her journey with art therapy. You'll hear about a transformative moment in her own art therapy experience, where she discovered hidden themes in her work that led to profound personal insights. This segment underscores the deep emotional connections that art can reveal and how it can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights:[00:00:00] - Sonia introduces the self-paced seven-day reset program designed to help reset your relationship with alcohol.[00:01:34] - Kathleen shares her initial hesitation about art therapy due to perceived lack of artistic talent.[00:01:55] - Sarah explains that no artistic talent is needed; an open mind is what counts in art therapy.[00:02:19] - Sarah describes starting with collage and art journaling for those who feel intimidated by drawing.[00:02:56] - Sarah recounts her personal story about discovering a recurring heart theme in her artwork during art therapy school.[00:04:00] - Sarah reflects on how she realized she wasn't paying attention to her own needs, leading to an emotional breakthrough.[00:05:02] - Discussion about the importance of a non-judgmental, supportive environment in art therapy.[00:06:06] - Sarah emphasizes that there is no judgment in art therapy and encourages self-expression without self-criticism.[00:07:13] - Sarah explains the benefits of focusing on the process and feelings rather than the final product in art therapy.[00:09:16] - Kathleen suggests using art therapy techniques in couples therapy and mindfulness practices.[00:10:00] - Sarah talks about the art therapist's role in helping clients interpret and understand their artwork.[00:11:00] - Sarah shares a story about a boy who stopped speaking and how art therapy helped uncover and address his trauma.[00:12:33] - Kathleen recalls her childhood trauma and how it influenced her drawings, highlighting the subconscious power of art.[00:14:00] - Sarah discusses the use of repetitive and grounding activities, like mandala drawing, to manage overwhelming emotions.[00:15:22] - Sarah identifies common challenges clients face when starting art therapy, such as apprehension about their artistic skills.[00:16:56] - Sarah shares her experience working with dementia patients and how art therapy helps them express themselves.[00:18:46] - Sonia and Sarah discuss the cognitive and emotional benefits of art therapy, such as improved mood and emotional expression.[00:20:31] - Sarah provides practical advice for starting an art journal at home, emphasizing the importance of just starting and letting the process unfold.[00:25:00] - Kathleen and Sarah talk about the holistic benefits of art therapy in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities, emphasizing the mind-body-soul connection.LinksSisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and communitySisters In Sobriety EmailSisters in Sobriety InstagramKathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcastKathleen’s Instagram
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • Art as Therapy: Transforming Recovery with Sarah Smith

    Art as Therapy: Transforming Recovery with Sarah Smith
    Jun 10 2024
    In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," Sonia and Kathleen explore the powerful role of art in healing, wellness, and recovery from alcohol use disorder. Joined by Sarah Smith, the compassionate owner of Soulful Art Therapy, the discussion delves into how art therapy can transform lives, providing a unique and effective outlet for emotional expression and long-term sobriety. Today, Sonia and Kathleen will guide you through the fascinating world of art therapy, sharing insights and stories of transformation.Sarah is a passionate artist and non-traditional art therapist, owning Soul-Full Art Therapy where she helps individuals explore the wellness benefits of the creative process. Sarah is a member of the Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) and has chosen to maintain her focus on art for wellness rather than merging with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). She facilitates art workshops at Sweet Spot Family Counselling and offers private sessions for individuals seeking a creative outlet for wellness. Her services are not a replacement for therapy and are not covered by insurance, serving instead as a tool for healing and recreation.This episode unpacks the multifaceted role of art as therapy in the recovery process. Key questions addressed include: How can engaging in creative processes provide a powerful outlet for emotions? What are the unique benefits of art therapy compared to traditional talk therapy? How does art therapy support long-term sobriety and emotional well-being? Through these discussions, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how art therapy can be a vital tool in their recovery journey. Listeners will learn about the core concepts of art therapy, including its ability to foster self-awareness, emotional expression, and healing. The episode highlights how art therapy can address common misconceptions and explains how the creative process can help individuals regain a sense of control and manage their emotions effectively. Sarah shares practical insights and examples of art therapy in action, demonstrating its therapeutic impact and the potential for profound personal transformation.Sarah shares a touching story from her practice about a man who initially resisted art therapy but ultimately experienced a significant emotional breakthrough. This powerful narrative illustrates the deep impact art therapy can have, revealing underlying emotions and facilitating healing in unexpected ways. Through Sarah’s compassionate guidance, this story serves as a testament to the transformative power of art in recovery.This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.Highlights:[00:01:00] - Introduction of guest Sarah Smith, owner of Soulful Art Therapy, and her work in guiding people on their wellness journeys through art.[00:01:34] - Kathleen discusses the role of art as therapy in recovery, exploring its benefits in providing an outlet for emotions and supporting long-term sobriety.[00:02:03] - Sarah introduces her sidekick, Louie the dog, who might be heard snoring during the episode.[00:02:31] - Sarah shares her background, how she became an art therapist, and her journey from being an artist to discovering art therapy.[00:04:10] - Sarah explains why she chose to practice art for wellness rather than merging with the College of Psychotherapists.[00:04:38] - Sarah defines art therapy and explains how it differs from other forms of therapy.[00:05:30] - Discussion on common misconceptions about art therapy, such as it being child's play or requiring artistic skill.[00:07:00] - Kathleen and Sarah discuss the judgment people face in school art classes and how it impacts their willingness to engage in art therapy.[00:08:12] - Sarah explains how art therapy can help people in addiction recovery by providing a sense of control and a healthy outlet for emotions.[00:09:13] - Sarah talks about the unique elements of art therapy that make it effective for those dealing with addiction, such as self-expression and emotional release.[00:10:13] - The importance of the process and how art holds the space for individuals, helping to lighten their emotional load.[00:11:00] - Sonia shares her experience with photography as a form of art therapy during her sobriety journey.[00:12:59] - Sarah explains the various art mediums used in art therapy and how they are chosen based on individual needs.[00:15:00] - Discussion on how the process of creating art, rather than the finished piece, is essential in art therapy.[00:17:06] - Sarah describes the typical process of an art therapy session, including grounding exercises and personalized art directives[00:20:09] - Sarah explains that the art therapy process for those in recovery is the same but tailored to individual needs, addressing physical, emotional, and mental aspects.[00:21:00] - Discussion on how ...
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
  • Mastering Mindfulness: A Step-By-Step Guided Meditation

    Mastering Mindfulness: A Step-By-Step Guided Meditation
    Jun 3 2024

    In this episode of "Sisters in Sobriety," Sonia and Kathleen continue their insightful discussion on mindfulness and its vital role in the recovery process. Today, they delve deeper into practical mindfulness techniques and guide listeners through a mindful meditation practice designed to foster grounding and mindful decision-making.

    Expect a comprehensive exploration of mindfulness, addressing key questions such as: How can mindfulness be effectively integrated into daily life? What are common challenges in starting a mindfulness practice? How can group settings enhance the practice of mindfulness in recovery? These questions set the stage for a rich discussion filled with practical advice and personal experiences.

    Kathleen and will educate listeners on several mindfulness concepts, including the "SOBER" meditation technique, urge surfing, and grounding exercises. She will also discuss the importance of starting small and gradually building a mindfulness routine. Key terms such as "mindfulness," "grounding techniques," and "urge surfing" will be thoroughly explored.

    Sonia shares how the guided meditation has transformed her understanding of mindfulness. She discusses the challenges she faced with traditional silent meditation and how Kathleen's guidance has provided the support she needed to stay focused and present.

    This is Sisters in Sobriety, the support community that helps women change their relationship with alcohol. Check out our Substack for extra tips, tricks, and resources.

    Highlights:

    [00:01:13] - Kathleen begins guiding listeners through a meditation practice.

    [00:02:43] - Kathleen introduces the SOBER meditation technique.

    [00:03:02] - The first step: Stop, pause, and take a deep breath.

    [00:03:25] - The second step: Observe thoughts and feelings without judgment.

    [00:04:19] - Observing physical sensations and surroundings.

    [00:05:00] - The third step: Breathe deeply and slowly to calm the mind.

    [00:05:14] - The fourth step: Expand awareness to include all observations.

    [00:06:00] - The fifth step: Respond mindfully to the situation or set an intention.

    [00:07:08] - Sonia shares how guided meditation was helpful for her.

    [00:08:21] - Kathleen addresses common misconceptions about mindfulness.

    [00:09:15] - Discussing the benefits of group mindfulness sessions in recovery.

    [00:10:25] - Kathleen explains common challenges when starting mindfulness practices in sobriety.

    [00:11:43] - Kathleen emphasizes starting small with mindfulness practices.

    [00:12:10] - Techniques like urge surfing are explained.

    [00:13:26] - Discussing the importance of grounding techniques.

    [00:14:22] - Best practices for mindfulness when feeling overwhelmed or in a crisis.


    Links

    • Sisters In Sobriety Substack - find more tips, tricks, resources, and community
    • Sisters In Sobriety Email
    • Sonia's EverBlume Website
    • Sonia’s EverBlume Instagram
    • Kathleen’s Website Kathleen does not endorse any products mentioned in this podcast
    • Kathleen’s Instagram
    Show more Show less
    25 mins