Habit Change: Neuroscience - Mindfulness and Addictions: A Neuroscience Brain Hack?

Title:

Mindfulness Training for Addictions: Has Neuroscience Revealed a Brain Hack by Which Awareness Subverts the Addictive Process?

Description:

Can mindfulness offer a revolutionary approach to overcoming addictions? In this episode, we dive into Dr. Jud Brewer’s 2019 review article exploring how mindfulness-based interventions target reward-based learning mechanisms to interrupt addictive behaviors. Discover how awareness and curiosity can transform the cycle of craving, making mindful curiosity a “more rewarding reward.” We’ll discuss:

•The science of reward-based learning and its role in addiction.

•The orbitofrontal cortex as a key brain region in value assignment.

•How mindfulness subverts habitual behaviors without relying on willpower.

This episode highlights the intersection of neuroscience and ancient mindfulness practices, providing actionable insights into breaking free from habit loops.

Full Reference:

Brewer, J.A. (2019). Mindfulness training for addictions: has neuroscience revealed a brain hack by which awareness subverts the addictive process? Current Opinion in Psychology, 28, 198-203. DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2019.01.014.

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