"One of the most important treatment developments in recent years has been the theoretical and empirical elaboration of mindfulness and acceptance into evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral protocols. This book by Steven C. Hayes, Victoria M. Follette, Marsha M. Linehan -- three of the most creative thinkers in this area -- have produced a volume surveying the current status of these new intervention strategies across the wide spectrum of psychopathology." - David H. Barlow, PhD, Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders and Department of Psychology, Boston University

In this book, longtime therapists David Gregson and Jay S. Efran offer a self-help book designed either to work in tandem with 12-step programs or to help addicts get sober without group help. After a brief explanation of Taoism (a Chinese philosophy and religion whose practitioners seek inner peace), the authors present the Tao, a Chinese term meaning "the way," as an ideal vehicle for attaining and maintaining freedom from substance addiction. Replete with anecdotes, exercises (meditations, questions to explore, affirmations) and real-life applications of Taoist precepts (letting go of attachments to guilt and other "self-condemnation" behaviors that lead to substance abuse), this guide uses the firm but gentle approach that is the trademark of many Eastern practices.

Mindful Recovery flows out of a Buddhist perspective that substitutes the authors' "ten doorways" for the more rigorous 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Based on research and professional experience, the book argues for "mindfulness," a quality of openness to life's experiences, as a lifestyle for the recovering addict. Presented here are both specific techniques and "practices" (e.g., journaling and meditation) for attaining mindfulness and composite life stories that illustrate various themes.