The practices and well-established benefits of mindfulness bolster a Twelve-Step program because mindfulness teaches ways of thinking and of questioning, which lead to gaining a greater understanding of self and mind, and a heightened awareness of how one relates to their thoughts. With this awareness, an individual can realize that they are capable of consciously choosing their actions, rather than reacting to situations according to deeply established default behaviors.

Mindfulness practice teaches the value of experiencing life in the present moment. By remaining present, an individual can become more aware of how they experience their emotions, both internally and physically. With practice, cultivating a mindful view enables a person to experience a thought, and then pause, observe, and make a conscious choice of how they will react. With present moment awareness, an individual might become more attuned to where their attention goes and notice when their thoughts are leading them in a bad direction. Developing these skills is useful to someone in recovery since thoughts are so closely tied to relapse.

Included in this dissertation is an exploration of the research regarding the brain science behind addiction. It points out the vulnerabilities that can prevent a person from going into recovery or prevent them from staying sober. Spirituality is highlighted as an essential component in the recovery process, both in Twelve-Step programs and in mindfulness practice.

This dissertation creates an eight-week recovery program that optimizes the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous and mindfulness-based recovery approaches by blending them into one program, with a particular emphasis on spirituality. Intersections and opportunities of the program and practices clarify how mindfulness not only supports but easily harmonizes with the AA program.