Refuge Recovery is a Buddhist-oriented, non-theistic approach to recovering from addiction. It is based on the idea that craving and attachment play a central role in addiction and uses Buddhist teachings and practices as a framework for understanding and changing those patterns. The program does not require previous knowledge of Buddhism.
Meditation is a major component of Refuge Recovery, alongside meetings, personal inventory, mentorship, retreats, and service. The program welcomes people recovering from a broad range of addictions—not only substances—and describes its meetings as a place for people who want to work toward freedom from addiction through mindfulness, community, and ongoing practice.