Ego Death
Rules of Recovery
Authentic Self
Relapse Warning Signs
Alignment
100

This term refers to the loss of the individual self or personal identity, often described as a state of oneness.

Ego Death

100

You can only recover by creating a new life that makes it easier to avoid using your substance of choice.  

Rule 1 – Change your life

100

This term refers to the deeper aspect of one's identity that is unveiled after undergoing the process of ego death and spiritual transformation.

The authentic self  

100

This emotional state, often a precursor to relapse, may cause individuals to feel hopeless or disengaged from their recovery journey.

Depression

100

In this stage, individuals may engage in this type of reflection, which involves examining their thoughts, feelings, and actions to ensure they are in harmony with their spiritual beliefs.

Self-reflection or introspection

200

In the second stage of ego death, individuals may experience this process, allowing them to release attachments, fears, and beliefs tied to their identity.

Letting go or surrendering 

200

In recovery, it is critical to be real with yourself and carefully monitor your behavior.

Rule 2 – Be completely honest

200

The emergence of the authentic self often involves shedding societal expectations. This concept, which encourages individuals to embrace their true nature, is referred to as what?

Self-acceptance

200

Experiencing a desire to engage in activities or behaviors associated with past substance use or unhealthy habits is referred to as having what?

A craving

200

In the life of alignment, individuals often seek to cultivate this quality, which involves being open to change and trusting the unfolding of their spiritual journey.

Surrender or trust in process

300

This common emotional response may arise during stage two of ego death, as individuals confront the dissolution of their ego and identity.

Fear and/or anxiety

300

It is common for people to start the recovery process by themselves, hoping to prove that they have complete control over cravings. Unfortunately, this usually proves unsuccessful and only further proves how isolating SUD can be.  

Rule 3 – Ask for help

300

During this stage, individuals often experience a renewed sense of purpose and clarity about their life path. This phenomenon can be described as discovering one's what?

Calling or life purpose

300

This common pattern of thinking, where individuals start to believe that they can control their use after a period of abstinence, is often referred to as what?

Denial or false control  

300

In the context of spiritual alignment, this concept involves recognizing and honoring one's unique gifts and talents as contributions to the greater good.

Self-acceptance or embracing one’s gift

400

During the second stage of ego death, practitioners may experience a shift in this aspect of perception, where the boundaries between the self and the external world become less defined.

Consciousness or awareness

400

Self-care is important to a happy and healthy life, so those on the road to recovery must discover effective and healthy self-care alternatives.  

Rule 4 – Practice self-care

400

This emotional state, often experienced in stage four, is characterized by a sense of peace and contentment that arises from living authentically.

Inner peace

400

A significant change in this area of life, like moving to a new city or starting a new job, can trigger feelings of stress and increase the risk of relapse, and it is known as what?

A life stressor  

400

This practice, often emphasized in stage five, involves engaging in activities that promote personal growth and spiritual development, such as workshops or retreats.

Continuous learning or personal development  

500

In the context of ego death, this term describes the realization that the self is not separate from the universe, leading to a profound sense of connection.

Interconnectedness

500

If you half-heartedly participate in your recovery plan, you allow opportunities for self-sabotage.  

Rule 5 – Don't bend the rules

500

This practice, often embraced in stage four, involves expressing one's true thoughts and feelings openly and honestly, fostering deeper connections with others.

Authentic communication  

500

This term describes a lack of motivation to attend therapy or recovery meetings, which can lead to isolation and increase the risk of relapse.

Disengagement

500

In stage five, individuals may experience this profound realization, which involves understanding that their true essence is beyond the ego and is connected to a universal consciousness.

The realization of the true self or higher self  

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