Zen, Emptiness, and Losing Habit-Based Self

In this episode, Elena Brower explores how to let go of self-doubt to transform your life. She shares her journey to sobriety, the power of self-compassion, and the importance of apology and inner safety. Elena discusses how Zen practice and guiding principles can foster healing, freedom, and deeper connection to oneself and others, offering listeners practical tools and heartfelt wisdom for personal growth.

Exciting News!!!Coming in March 2026, my new book, ⁠⁠How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!⁠⁠

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Key Takeaways:

• Exploration of Zen practice and its relevance to modern life
• Discussion of self-doubt as a mental stall and its impact on action
• The concept of "no self" and the idea of emptiness in Zen philosophy
• The importance of releasing attachments to identity and fixed narratives
• Personal journey of recovery from addiction and its transformative effects
• The role of self-empathy and the phrase "how human of me" in healing
• The significance of apologies and their impact on relationships
• Creating inner safety and the realization that true security comes from within
• The importance of guiding principles in maintaining integrity and making conscious choices
• The connection between reducing self-concern and spiritual practice in recovery

For full show notes,⁠⁠ click here⁠⁠!

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Have you ever ended the day feeling like your choices didn’t quite match the person you wanted to be? That’s exactly why I created The Six Saboteurs of Self-Control—a free guide that helps you recognize the hidden patterns that quietly derail your progress and offers simple, effective strategies to move past them. If you’re ready to take back control and make meaningful, lasting change, download your free copy at oneyoufeed.net/ebook. Let’s make those shifts happen, starting today.

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