How to Work with the Craving Mind with Dr. Jud Brewer

Dec 27, 2022

Dr. Jud Brewer, a leading expert in mindfulness and addiction, dives into the intricacies of cravings and how they relate to our behavior. He explains the habit loop cycle and the importance of awareness in transforming harmful patterns. Mindfulness techniques, like surfing the waves of cravings, help manage addictive behaviors. The RAIN technique is highlighted for its effectiveness in overcoming challenges like smoking and binge eating. Brewer encourages curiosity as a means to break free from habitual actions and align with true happiness.

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INSIGHT

Habit Loop's Power

The habit loop, consisting of trigger, behavior, and reward, drives our actions.
This loop, originally for survival, now underlies habits like emotional eating.

ANECDOTE

Pizza Binge Eating

Dr. Brewer treated a patient who developed a binge eating habit, consuming entire pizzas.
This patient began this pattern at eight, highlighting how early habits form.

ADVICE

Surf the Urge

View cravings as waves; 'surf' them with awareness instead of being overwhelmed.
Examine cravings' physical sensations to stay afloat and avoid being 'crushed'.

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