Refuge Recovery is a program for people working through substance use that’s based on Buddhist principles and mindfulness practices. Unlike traditional 12-step programs, Refuge Recovery focuses on meditation, self-awareness, compassion, and ethical living to help manage cravings, emotions, and build long-lasting sobriety.
Legal Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider regarding addiction or any other medical condition.
Core Principles of Refuge Recovery
Mindfulness – Being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and cravings in the present moment.
Meditation – Practicing regular meditation to calm your mind, reduce stress, and understand addictive patterns.
Ethical Living – Following Buddhist-inspired precepts such as honesty, compassion, and non-harming.
Community Support – Connecting with peers in group meetings to share experiences and gain support.
Self-Reflection – Examining your actions, thoughts, and emotions to foster personal growth and healing.
Common Practices in Refuge Recovery
Meditation Sessions – Guided or silent meditations for mindfulness and emotional regulation.
Recovery Meetings – Discussions based on Buddhist teachings, not step-based literature.
Study of Dharma – Learning Buddhist philosophy and applying it to addiction and recovery.
Compassion and Service – Cultivating empathy and helping others in recovery.
Daily Mindful Practices – Applying mindfulness in everyday life to prevent relapse and build resilience.
Refuge Recovery emphasizes healing through awareness, compassion, and intentional living, offering an alternative to traditional 12-step programs.
Find Meetings and Online Support
You can find Refuge Recovery meetings in-person or online using the official meeting locator:
🌱 Refuge Recovery Meeting Locator – Search by location, day, and time.
Other online recovery resources based on Buddhist principles:
🌱 Recovery Dharma – Trauma-informed, peer-led recovery programs.
🌱 Buddhist Recovery Network – Directory of online Refuge Recovery meetings sorted by day and time.
Why Choose Refuge Recovery?
It supports recovery without requiring a belief in a higher power.
Focuses on self-awareness, compassion, and ethical living to address addiction at its root.
Offers a global, online-friendly community for support anywhere in the world.
Important: Refuge Recovery is a complementary approach. It may be used alongside professional treatment, counseling, or medication-assisted therapy if recommended by a healthcare provider.