Is Alcohol Bad for Spiritual Awakening? | Eckhart Tolle Explains

[@gambooyt]

I love the fact that he is not an extremist. Spirituality is not about becoming absolutely "pure"; it's about being sufficiently awakened to live in this world without falling back again into unconsciousness.

[@johngreen4683]

I couldn't agree more Ash, it's all about balance and non judgement in my opinion, too much alcohol, food, spirituality, religion and pretty much most other things can become a problem for any of us if we lose self awareness 🙏

[@lauriefrancisco1084]

Since this teaching is not derived from organized religion, in fact, isn't even "religion," abstinence, or not, is left up to the individual, not threatened to be a "sin."

[@lilyjasmine9129]

Exactly! I love how grounded, humorous and "normal" he is.

[@oliround]

One drink here or there might not be bad but in the end the truth lies in the balance of an individual psyche. If you want to do something but you know it's bad for you and you go ahead and do it anyway, you will either be able to let go of that choice, or that choice will haunt you, and if it haunts you, you know repeating that decision or choice is in its very essence the definition of unconscious living.

[@lanachild7731]

@@oliround the reality is that many people can't have "just" One drink. So, one drink leads to more than one and can become more often than is originally planned. Also, if person in a vulnerable emotional situation, addiction can creep up.

[@SandileMbatha777]

I lost all desire to consume alcohol when I embarked on the spiritual enlightenment journey and I have been sober for 10 months

[@kevwills858]

Is life amazingly better now ?

[@bhaktajason]

Congratulations. Which path are you on prabhuji?

[@tomaszkociuba7377]

Yep things are different now .I am more than 3 years sober. ODAAT 🥰

[@Meattemple]

Now we know.

[@kgk8995]

12y here🤗

[@PeopleRgarbage]

I'm one year sober after 35y alcohol abuse. Thank you 😊

[@degijsvisser]

Thank yourself :D

[@nancyburgess7601]

Wonderful! Keep going x

[@TeacherCarolineInGuatemala]

Congrats!!! 🎉

[@PeopleRgarbage]

@TeacherCarolineInGuatemala still haven't had a drink and I'll be sober through the festive season, thanks

[@davitaandrew5834]

Congratulations. This takes much strength and love for yourself.

[@JodyFidelis]

I quit drinking 5 years ago and wish I had done it sooner in my life. I feel so clean and I love the sober feeling of clarity in my mind. Sometimes I get bummed about the years I wasted being wasted.

[@paulschnyder938]

Well done 👍 - keep it up

[@ryucartel351]

Lessons learned are good things, don't be bummed! You can "reclaim" those years by helping other people to avoid losing theirs. Every time your words are the catalyst in helping someone else get clean, and you save them years of their life, the years you spent learning the lessons you needed to heal others this way don't feel so wasted anymore.

[@ElliottHeal]

It’s okay to feel that grief about lost time, you just need to feel it and accept it fully

[@giovanniamore7532]

these ýears brought ýou here 😊

[@drjerry5389]

Our beloved Politicians benefit from people having addictions. We dont protest changes and gets passive!

[@rtgpdotxyz]

It's almost 8 years ago when i drinked my last alcohol. It feels good to not have a hangover/headache, guilty feelings about drinking, stomach problems and regret about doing things under the influence of alcohol. Also it's nice to have just a natural high from the simple things in llife.

[@NYKIRA]

💗

[@carlabarron6028]

AMEN !!! 🙏🙏🙏

[@santiago1983ism]

7:56 to 10:22, this part here sums up my relationship with alcohol. Many times I was in a really good place, internally, spiritually, and I thought "now I deserve a little reward!", and I wallowed in alcohol for months! I realized that it doesn't work for me. I decided not to drink anymore, radically.

[@luckystroke126]

How long you been dry?

[@santiago1983ism]

@@luckystroke126 I didn't drink from August 2020 to January 2022, that is, 1 year and 5 months. This year, unfortunately, I've been drinking, but I realized that I can't drink and stopped again. Today I am 48 days without alcohol and 42 without cigarettes.

[@johngreen4683]

@@santiago1983ism I think it's really important to focus on the days you didn't drink and celebrate those days fsr far more than beat yourself up for the days you didn't do quite so well. Our minds love beating us up for our perceived set backs, but we are not our minds and we full of compassion, understanding and acceptance of ourselves as well as others 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@luckystroke126]

@@santiago1983ism That is great! I read somewhere that if you can be three weeks without desire to your addiction, you no longer have addiction.

[@melaniestarkey7868]

@@santiago1983ism you are incredible I had 23 years and went back out I now have three years. Don't agree with anyone that would put a life-saving program down.

[@terridillon3053]

19 years sober Praise God!

[@Yin7094]

the other day, i was out drinking with friends and had one too many beers and as i was dizzy and almost feeling physically ill, i had the biggest moment of awakening. everything around me was so clear, insecurities were arising within me and yet i noticed it wasn't the core of who i was. i was entirely lucid and conscious and realized that i needed to stop drinking right now and go home.

[@sabri67]

Hope you quit forever 😊

[@GreySavo]

Steps work

[@Nnoo1987]

that was just drug abusing my brother

[@redwoods7370]

I stopped drinking three years ago. Huge increase in quality of life and mental health when I did. Best to stay away from alcohol.

[@x2x3456]

I stopped drinking a few months ago, when I realised alcohol was becoming destructive in my life both internally and externally.

[@johngreen4683]

Good for you and knowing yourself well enough to recognise, accept and address your personal issues 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@elizabethfonseca922]

One day at a time. 🙏🙏🙏

[@redsugar723]

I am an alcoholic, and was in the depths of what I have learned is the pain body renewing itself over and over in my alcoholism. I felt trapped and like my "self" had been split, literally, into two parts. I tried for a long time to be free of the addiction but it had me in it's grip. I came across some snippet from Eckhart describing how you are not your mind, and it struck me so deeply. I began to listen to more, starting with A New Earth, and I felt the truth in it. I felt for the first time in a long time like there was a way away from my mind, the thing that was destroying me slowly - or actually rather quickly. From there it gave me the strength to get additional help and support and begin my path that I'm currently on, which is seeking enlightenment. Prior to this I was an atheist. Now I believe in the intelligence that is undeniable, what a Eckhart refers to as the "source". I would not say that alcoholism directly led me to enlightenment, but the pain that existed in me found alcoholism as an outlet, or a renewal for my pain body. And as I sought relief, I was open to hearing the truth. It's true what Eckhart says, that if alcohol is a trigger for your pain body, if it takes you into unconsciousness, then avoid it at all costs. I'm now sober and thought of a drink makes me physically ill, my body and who I truly am rejects it. If that isn't your trigger, then enjoy. Thank you Eckhart as always for your wisdom and truth.

[@johnmarston130]

Thats awesome!!! The natural high is so much better just like when we were children we didn't nees the most consumed drugs coffee and alcohol to be energetic and present in the moment enjoying life.

[@superfatfagina2385]

@@johnmarston130 K huhhyyujhhyipp

[@ksan1648]

If you're sober, how are you also an alcoholic?

[@kimleith1378]

Eckhart saved my sobriety from the begining 34+ yrs ago. Still does.

[@iorgacamil7303]

I've been a heavy drinker for many years since I was a teenager but have completely stopped in June of this year and besides loosing 10kg in weight I feel like I've also lost 1 ton in spiritual weight. Alcohol can be a mental labyrinth filled with emotional distress and I'm eternally grateful to Eckhart for being a significant factor in getting me out of it and raising my consciousness. Retrospectively , I'm disappointed with loosing so much energy in the many years of alcohol use but I do understand that ultimately it was necessary to get here and everything is as it's supposed to be.

[@paulschnyder938]

Well done 👍- keep it up

[@JodyFidelis]

Me too. I’ve been completely sober for 5 years and I love sobriety. But I am sad sometimes over the years I wasted being wasted.

[@serellesound]

Don’t be sad about it, that will hold you back from your ascension, remember why we are seekers? To know that we are in this world, but not of it. This world is designed to keep us low. You are far more powerful than your pain and you are proving that to yourself daily, congratulations x much love to you and your journey.

[@stevecooper7038]

Research "The Sinclair Method" for effective treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder. Forced Abstinence is not the only way, neither is it the most effective.

[@wandarask8444]

Great story to hear and read Thankyou for giving us hope Love Australia x

[@FriendofDorothy]

I had a highly stressful and demanding job so I got into a mind-set of "rewarding" myself with binge drinking on weekends only. Got into all kinds of trouble as a result. Eventually bottomed out due to am embarrassing incident, went to some AA meetings, and have now been sober since 2016. The rewards of sobriety are subtle and completely unlike the high drama of the lush life, but trust me, you will appreciate such lack of drama over time.

[@elizabethfonseca922]

🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@gailivis5971]

2019 made me wake up, and I gave up smoking drinking and ALL prescription drugs. Its amazing how my mind has expanded since then. I cannot even watch movies anymore knowing all that the celebrities have been involved in behind the scenes.

[@drjerry5389]

I envy you! I am stuck in addictive pills due to severe anxiety and Ive tried therapies and counsellors and meditated a lot but I cant stop taking Xanax, lyrica and Immovane. I went in and out to the psychiatric ward and tried suicide and cut my arms. But this medication is the only thing that can keep me functioning somewhat without too much suffering? Smoking came along with my depression in my 30s and the pills make it impossible to stop smoking! How did you do it?

[@stephaniepappas5240]

I am with you on this! 10 years sober now! It’s wild what you start noticing once your eyes are wide open!

[@gailivis5971]

@stephaniepappas5240 😇🙏👏👏👏

[@soluniverse8]

I feel the same way. I’ve stopped drinking alcohol and using certain drugs. That said, if you stop watching a movie or listening to a song because someone did something bad in the past, you’ll miss out on the art itself. It’s hard to swallow in this day and age, given what we now know, but it’s still possible to enjoy the music or the film for what it is. We’ve all done bad things-let he who is without sin cast the first stone. We are products of our environment, and some people manage to rise above it. Don’t let that deter you from enjoying films or music created by those energies. It’s important for us to shift the energies misled people pour into their work toward a better light. ❤

[@rd-xi7zn]

good for you! way to go!!! I am getting there also!

[@Hologhoul]

I can stay conscious after several glasses of wine, the problem is the feeling of depression the next day definitely anchors me in my mind, exactly as Eckhart says there.

[@alicetrukhan6793]

Still caught in the cycle of binge drinking and a certain 'wanting' to drink so that I actually lose presence and awareness lol even though I am highly sensitive person, an empath and very much into spirituality in my daily life. I really wish to stop the wanting and this habit but honestly struggling pretty badly. I see the negative affects it has on my life, yet still do it. Absolute madness. I hope one of these days I will have the strength to stop. Edit: wow thank you beautiful people for your comments and support

[@Ellenweiss1]

I had a feeling to reaching out and say you are heard out here. And I wish he had addressed addiction in general here a little more than he did. That addictions as I know well always are attempts to deal with pain and or trauma. (Gabor Mate speaks well on this). I also think in the addictive process itself is a reaching for love that a part of us feels is deeply missing. (Not madness but a wound....and deeply human). So that's why it's soooo hard to put down for some in my opinion. I struggle with my own addictions am definitely somewhat awake:). Sending blessings and a little prayer out to you and to myself and others out there that we can release the substances whatever they are that keep us from fully awakening and feeling that love and presence within us.

[@butterflyam3125]

I was like you. AA is a good solution for this type of drinking problem. It's not about getting the strength to stop. It's giving over control and surrendering to a higher power/ spirit/ God that graces you one day at a time to live freely of the desire to drink. It can be a hypocritical program at times, but it is a wonderful doorway to find tools to living a spiritual life free of a substance that clouds your mental, emotional and spiritual perception. I haven't had a drink in years and don't want one. Spiritually, that desire was removed. Physiologically, I believe once the body gets freed of this substance, it no longer craves it.

[@Mscat410]

Hi Alice, I had a similar experience but weaned myself off about 18 yrs ago. I then would try to “just have a little” and realized how my body was physically rejecting it and then I just stopped. However, I felt like I still needed it to chill out and realized after several ER visits I actually had slightly high blood pressure. Now I’m on a blood pressure pill and I feel perfect with no need to have alcohol. I also love all the money I save. You can quit, just know you will miss the habit for a few months and then you’ll be fine and adjust to not having it. I know you can do it :)

[@jessebristow698]

Sending blessings your way. I also struggle with addiction and I'm not too sure how to give it up. You're not alone, I hope we can figure this out together

[@elizabethfonseca922]

In my case, AA was a blessing. I drank heavily and frequently, it was a burden on my family and on myself. I've been sober for over 8 yrs now.

[@peterpoc2857]

31 days sober! Thanks Eckhart! =)

[@Giggiyygoo]

My drug of choice was Marijuana. Certainly alcohol and other drugs are worse, but I found that it dragged me down just the same. Ironically, I started smoking to try to become more spiritual. But, after 10 years I now realize it did just the opposite.

[@stevehobin3270]

Yes I like both and level out

[@claudiad7654]

How so? curious

[@Jhawk_2k]

I've fallen for that trick of the ego so many times. "I'm getting high spiritually". In a sense it's completely true, fortunately I have enough presence to see what's happening. I'd legitimately get high with spiritual intentions and maybe even make some progress on the first day. But the real problems start when I let my thoughts convince me that I need to do the same thing the next day. And the next day, etc. Some people can do okay with this, but I almost always end up upping the dose every time to try to get "further", which starts to ruin all the progress.

[@Patricia_Stewart337]

yeah!

[@victoriap4335]

I think I have FINALLY realizing all of what you are saying! In my family of origin I have lost both parents and 2 brothers to alcohol. And I know that I cannot partake anymore!! I gave up smoking 30 yrs ago, but alcohol has taken longer (I am 70). AA was an important part of my recovery, and you are a very important part of my Staying Sober!

[@pookiecatblue]

Hey, Victoria. I am 71. It's never too late to live your best life. I hope you are still doing well.

[@ottifantiwaalkes9289]

I enjoy his silence when he is collecting his thoughts or words. Most speakers fill the thinking phase with sounds. I wonder how they think while always having the urge to make sounds.

[@joannaedwards6325]

Had the same thought. I just learned that to not speak when you want to talk is spiritual growth. 😊

[@NoelleEveland]

He said in one of his talks to listen to the space between his words just as much as you listen to the words. Now I do that as often as I can

[@joannaedwards6325]

@@NoelleEveland ✌ ❤ 👌

[@elainegreenhalgh3816]

​@@NoelleEvelandi always overtalked out of nervousness yet appeared to be very comfortable and not full of anxiety. i guess it was helpful in my younger years and i met & had many friends. Yet, as i began to awaken,- i realized from Ekard I dont need to have a story for everything.And i always admired those who spoke slowly and smartly. But, having a talkative mom i was trained to believe i always had to talk. Now ive been practicing meditation 8 yrs and find ive changed in no longer needing to know everything about everyone or telling everyone everything. That alone takes away some anxiety. However, now that i spend so much time quiet I wind up overspeaking again when i get around people- as if its built up in me,! half the time i make no sense or go off in so many directions! I said for The new year im speaking slower n less- starting now! 😂

[@SliszMeisterGeneral]

For the last few years, three things I've worried about is coffee, cannabis and alcohol. However, I've found that as I've awakened more and more - improving my mental health - the less and less I've had to rely on these substances. In other words, I didn't really have to quit, it just happened by itself.

[@lindseeziegler90]

yes indeed

[@Kiwi_the_ragdollcat]

Wow this is so true to my experience. I have been “awakening” for awhile now and I definitely don’t desire to drink as I used to. When I was an alcoholic I felt I needed it and would drink until I lost control. Now I might have a glass socially and then don’t wish for more. Awakening has been the only helpful tool for this after trying literally everything.

[@MrEmiko29]

10 years sober after decades of abuse and destruction is the best thing I ever did. So proud of myself!! Do it!

[@shrunkensimon]

Being the son of an alcoholic, there was one time I saw my father when he hadn't had a drink for two weeks (post-hospital stay). It saddened me, not because of his gaunt appearance but because I realized I could actually feel his essence for the first time.. and that there had always been this veil, this intermediary, this invisible second agency in the relationship the whole time. It might not happen with just one drink or joint, but there seems to come a time where something else joins the party inside the persons head if they indulge in anything too much. I don't think it's helpful to reduce the argument down to just awareness. Speaking from personal experience, and as many others will also echo, I think there's more going on than we currently understand in regards to unseen psychological forces and psychoactive substances.

[@anselmatthews1163]

I concur, brother!

[@ClaireR-zk2ge]

I know this. X

[@johnmarston130]

I think it's spirits that take possession of the intoxicated person to fulfill the adiction they died with, look up algol the devil of drugs

[@benleomedia]

Thank you. Your comment could have been written by me. I shared the same experience.

[@saravoncool2773]

And health wise too..

[@brigitte1959]

You are not alone. All the best for you and never give up!

[@lovesoneall8129]

Presence did for me what I could never do for myself: sobriety. Thank you Eckhart for helping get in touch with Presence

[@sacredserpentempressyamuna]

Sober for about six years now. No desire at all. Awakening and healing has now given me that state I was searching for I think. I don't know how people do it. I was an everyday drinker before.👑🙏🏽👑

[@kramnam4716]

So right. Moderation. BUT you have to stay in control and be AWARE! 👌🙏🏼

[@zoobrizz]

Not really. I eventually read the book by Allen Carr. The easy way to stop drinking. It’s very convincing. There’s nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol. It works .

[@bhaktajason]

Moderation? "small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it"

[@kramnam4716]

@@bhaktajason nice one J .. why bother right?

[@pagerumer3533]

Sounds like walking on a tightrope to me.

[@suindoe8141]

I have noticed that whenever I have a drink, my intuition is off. Literally had this thought a few minutes ago after having just finished a holiday drink. Was thinking about receiving a confirmation, and here it is. ⭐

[@niteglow980]

One more was my favourite phrase. It got me into trouble many times. Thankfully, I’m now sobre and feel much better for it.

[@Emilysanders33]

I found that the further i got on my spiritual journey the MORE i wanted alcohol, I think the pressure and vastness of my learnings made me want to escape even more. I am learning how to control it now

[@jpowell2603]

I quit drinking once and for all in March 2020. Never again! Since then my life has been so awesome. No AA meetings none of that I just stopped cold turkey and it worked for me. Such a waste of time drinking that poison!

[@potrico1030]

I pray I can have a similar experience. Your message is encouraging to me.

[@Jewelmind]

Congrats, thats awesome

[@Dman3827]

I bet you are hooked on sodas and monster drinks though or coffee. Cold turkey can cause DT

[@JennyYogi]

Since my awakening started, my desire to drink alcohol diminished more and more. I felt like alcohol had a bad influence on my body and spiritual awakening. So, I have not been drinking any alcohol for some years now and I have zero desire to do so.

[@MrRudedogg69]

I chose to stop drinking (after 35yrs) as the 1st step on my spiritual journey. I know that I could not have achieved awareness otherwise. Since it was my choice to stop drinking, I have no issues being around people that consume alcohol. I also volunteer at a Detox center, as part of a pet therapy team, to provide encouragement to people that have made the decision to quit abusing alcohol and drugs. Eckhart has been inspiration to me.

[@waynerogers5485]

This is quite interesting to me, as an alcoholic, continuously sober since Feb '95. I had sudden and impactful awakening experiences that have continued to grow and develop. Almost since about the first couple of weeks or so, I have neither desired, nor required, alcohol or other mind or mood altering substances. One thing that may have helped was that I didn't, at any time, want to hold on to any part of the life I was previously living as I was living it. That being said, I am eternally grateful for the Awakening. I would note, however, that the real alcoholic also experiences a physical manifestation that apparently does not exist in the non-alcoholic. Much confusion seems to exist around this. That is the phenomenon of craving. Once alcohol is taken into the body,a physical demand for the intake of more alcohol engages in the alcoholic. I found it be similar in both intensity and immediate need to fulfil, to the need to take a free, unrestricted breath of air when oxygen-deprived for a short period of time. The overwhelming need to take in more alcohol arises and the cycle of drinking continues until either the attainment of oblivion or the forced removal of access to alcohol occurs. Once stopped, the recovery process can be restarted immediately upon cessation of drinking and the elimination of residual alcohol in the body. Therefore, the consumption of any alcohol after a period of sobriety, with or without any real or supposed spiritual awakening, is likely most safely avoided. If unsure, it may be better not to experiment. If certain, no experimentation will be necessary. If unsuccessful experimentation is survived, though, it may not be necessary any further. I have witnessed others fall back into alcoholic drinking after varying periods of sobriety that could be weeks, months, or even years, only to succumb to the demands of alcoholism and waste away essentially because they came to think that they may have been somehow immunized against the effect of alcohol and could now control and enjoy drinking. That will, hopefully, not have to be the case for many more. All the best to all concerned.

[@elizabethfonseca922]

Congratulations, you're a person of high determination. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@waynerogers5485]

@@elizabethfonseca922 thank you. Perseverance is one of my beneficial characteristics. :)

[@blazingstar9638]

Great comment Wayne, well said!❤

[@michaelgarrow3239]

Stop drinking is impossible. Not drinking is.

[@rarimanegg]

One is too much for me but 1000 is never enough.

[@jacknottingham9492]

I am on the start of my sobriety, fed up with shame, anxiety and guilt after drinking. 9 weeks in and I was saying to my girlfriend that exact example, that alcohol severs the link between awareness and being unaware and that I will have to start again if I drink. Then I watch this video and Elhart is saying the same thing, maybe I am a bit of a guru in the making.😊

[@elizabethfonseca922]

I'm an alcoholic and, thanks to AA, I've been sober for 8 and a half years. It's true that AA practices some spirituality, although no specific religion is ever mentioned. We are encouraged to admit the existence of a Higher Power, some of us call it God, some just say it's a superior power. Even before AA, I was interested in spiritual stuff, but many of my fellows discovered spirituality during our meetings. ONE DAY AT A TIME. ✌️🙏❤️

[@HumansAreShitFactories]

Why would you conflate spirituality and religion?

[@elizabethfonseca922]

@@HumansAreShitFactories because they're often connected, maybe?

[@HumansAreShitFactories]

@@elizabethfonseca922 That’s what the great deceivers of organised religion would like you to believe so they can control your mind into maintaining the power hierarchy that they are at the top of. Religion gains its strength from appealing to what is in people already and trying to capitalise on it.

[@elizabethfonseca922]

@@HumansAreShitFactories okay then.

[@HumansAreShitFactories]

@@elizabethfonseca922 🍌

[@robbieg983]

So bizarre. I got sick last week and have been completely sober for seven days now, then this video randomly pops up. Gotta love it

[@virginiagross5836]

I really appreciate this! I’ve gotten down to just a glass three nights a week, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This freedom of enjoying wine came after my almost completion of a Course In Miracles. I was so free to truly enjoy it. I also switched to sulfite free(as much as possible) and organic and really kept me from having an allergic reaction.

[@lighthouselillie3262]

What I see around me is that any addiction… like drinking, smoking, eating, fasting, running, cleaning, sleeping, gaming, internetting, arguing, talking, judging, and so on… is easily replaceable and thus will probably be replaced as soon as you stop one of them 🙄 unless you become conscious of the reason why it is you developed an addiction. It’s worth doing some inside research to not end up in this vicious circle 😊 At least you can choose the addiction you like most, or the one that causes least harm 😉 Thank you for your inspiring teachings Eckhart 🙏

[@jJust_NO_]

uhm there is no profound reason or whatever deep spiritual buzzwords in determining addiction. it happens because you find pleasure in it and you have nothing else to do. thats just how humans function because we are living in an era of self indulgence. almost everything is easily accessible and gratifying but is short lived.

[@bhaktajason]

The higher taste

[@Rosesraspberries72]

We are trying to fill the inner void from outside influences. We are scared to face the void, so fill it with distractions.

[@chaz7604]

Everyone is addicted to something and if you’re not you’re probably addicted to being self righteous!! Or consciousness haha (this is meant in jest ❤)

[@bhaktajason]

@@chaz7604 the higher taste

[@stevekille6239]

Thank you Eckhart. What you say makes perfect sense to me. You helped me awaken, but I am still enjoying one drink sometimes. I was worried that I was deluding myself, but I do not feel my presence changing if I have a drink. I'm sure each person's experience is different, and you covered most situations.

[@samanthamariah7625]

Me too 💚🌿🍃🎋🍀☘️💚

[@connorgaunt228]

Just be careful of spiritual pride

[@morsaw10000]

@@connorgaunt228 yeah those spiritually entitled yoga wine people are intolerable lol

[@samanthamariah7625]

@@morsaw10000 Lol. However, spiritual narcissistic can destroy lives and it can be a long recovery to trust again. Just because someone does yoga or meditates, means very little

[@denisehay8895]

Dry January begins tomorrow for me!

[@electricsnut]

My new years resolution also was to stop alcohol through 2023 and hopefully further. Best of luck to you 🙏

[@debscott5180]

Yup me too

[@kevwills858]

I lasted 10hrs Sleeping with that one ... How'd the rest of you go ?

[@hubertd.1653]

This helps me a lot, as I am occasionaly catching myself as obsesively trying to be absolutely pure in every possible aspect of my life...

[@pjf2193]

Alcohol is one of the worst drugs.

[@ekulluke2]

Yep, that's why it's everywhere!

[@solarkantari5d]

Great video. I quit everything for 2 years following a Kundalini Awakening, more recently (and I know I'm not alone in this) I've been going out during shows, having a few beers and having the best time ever! Totally aware... It doesnt effect me like it used to. Sometimes we can have an attachment to NOT having an attachment! However, each to their own soul journey and blessings to all of those who suffer with addictions of any kind x

[@BananaRaisin_93]

"Sometimes we can have an attachment to NOT having an attachment!" Oh thank you, thank you! You put in words something I was struggling with for last days

[@solarkantari5d]

@@BananaRaisin_93 aww thankyou, happy to even give the slightest bit of insight! Took me a good few years to discover and interstand that principal. We're often just replacing something with something else, instead of pushing out the energy that caused it in the first place! Blessings your way ✨️ 🙏🏼

[@johnjay2717]

When one is firmly in awareness, acting in moderation and self control becomes the benefit. Feeling how you feel and the ability to interpret what is hurtful and beneficial short and long term for your health improves. In awareness you are free and know the limits for your own good. It takes time to learn but when one develops in spiritually and lives in the moment, the skills improve and choices and limits are much better known for one's own good. A feeling of gratefulness for the gift of life and a sense of being connected to your Source helps make living a joy and a blessing.

[@joannaedwards6325]

FINALLY ! Perfectly said. ❤ I can now stop this time wasting slog through these comments.. Pontification and blah blah blah. Thank you for sharing. So honest and succinct. ❤ 🕊 💡 ✌

[@jarkkojukkola9790]

I've had social problems almost all my life but I've noticed that even alcohol doesn't put me to face those problems. I'm still kind of aware certain things of course. Sometimes I feel I'm getting normal after 2 or 3 portions of alcohol and this is how I kind of should be. I'm often overthinking and being pessimist without alcohol. Still I'm not drinking a lot at all, maybe 0-8 portions in month. One reason for that is bodybuilding and trying to life healthy.

[@NM-kt4ht]

I relate to you friend. I don't overdrink but I feel after a few I can really get started on awareness because the ego mind is quieter.

[@tonybudhasbuslife...4616]

10.5 years substance free... TRUTH compassion is a beautiful human

[@mccoggsgregor8059]

This really hit home. I've been a spiritual alcoholic for over 30 years.

[@lisa-dg5tf]

What’s a spiritual alcoholic?

[@FriendofDorothy]

does your significant other agree with your self-assessment? Just askin

[@alohauniversal3896]

What do you mean by “spiritual alcoholic” ?

[@higheryibes4430]

Identity.

[@sandimilicevic4310]

It's a joke people

[@driftsrandomly268]

Alcohol , tobacco , unhealthy food, high-carb diet, it all makes me feel disconnected . But after this video I'm starting to think, maybe my problem is that one of my shadows is that i feel i have to be a "perfect" human being to be worthy of my gifts. .... i think I just had a breakthrough. I've been told my whole life that I'm not good enough . i didn't even fully realize this before now . wow. once again i found exactly what I needed to help me on my path. thank you eckhart, and thank you universe

[@peterknyk1942]

Brilliantly said, Eckhart from one who has observed alcoholism too much! Thank you! 🔥

[@yukio_saito]

I feel wanting more and more after drinking a couple of glasses of alcohol. 🍺🍷 That's why I quit drinking. I enjoy being sober for 10 years.😊

[@jeanbaptistevanel]

I open youtube with this question and the first video is this one wow perfect.

[@alison2161]

Once the soul realizes they are not the flesh and they are not the external. It is freedom. It is how it changes our thinking and our perceptions that are the danger. If we believe we “this label” and “that label” we subconsciously become it because we believe we are. But If we stay present and just observe as if the passing clouds above us, nothing outside of us can harm us as we are spirit beings having a human experience

[@mickzammit6794]

Mumbo jumbo that's goes in a circle and arrived nowhere. What ultimately did you mean?

[@bhaktajason]

@@mickzammit6794 sounds to me like she's been meditating

[@mickzammit6794]

@@bhaktajason yes but the big issue with meditation is for it to be beneficial it requires absolute silence. Externally and internally. Her thoughts seem the product of new age philosophy when really the source of contentment and peace of mind are as old as the universe we live in. Seek a silent place in a forest beside running water. Then stare at the water until the thoughts you need come to you instead of you seeking them. I'm lucky as I always choose to live in such places.

[@bhaktajason]

@@mickzammit6794 Err, Japa?

[@alison2161]

@@mickzammit6794 the eyes of your soul are shut. Small minds cannot interpret or discern spiritual things because of ego. My thoughts are not new age, but given to me by the Holy Spirit. You’re still in the world, so you see things from a worldly view. Believe and have a relationship with Jesus Christ and you’ll get a birds eye view and will be led into ALL Truth.

[@danielpaulson8838]

Life experiences are all mental. Does one consume a glass of wine to enhance an experience or drink daily because the past is too painful? Those are based in a mental process to start with.

[@turtlerabbitart]

Beautiful soul, we are blessed to have you Ekhart

[@OmidHope14]

It is a roller coaster sometimes, nothing happens without a good cause behind it that Beleif gives me hope in ups and downs, I am trying to completely quit yet I faced many darknesses during downs of life it was the hardest days yet i grew more I beleive. Hope all of us pass our challanges and become more aware of our lights and darknesses and be able to make them all a good energy toward the world

[@Joyous765]

Thanks for explaining how the pain-body comes in and especially with men in relation to alcohol. It can become dangerous and life threatening to the woman in their life since it can lead to violence.

[@Joyous765]

@@alison2161 Thanks for sharing, Alison. It’s helpful to face up to truth while sad to realize that violence applies to some women, too.

[@TheBest0704]

I quit drinking completely for almost 15 years from 25-40, & it totally killed my social life. I was completely spiritually awakened, but eventually life just felt like a prison being stuck in the same boring level of consciousness with no escape where nothing unpredictable happens. So now I just allow myself 1-2 drinks sometime, not everyday but whenever I want it. And as a result, life and awakening feel much less mundane

[@alisonchavarria9189]

Thank you for this teaching. This brings to mind an important quote very dear to me from Marshall Vian Summers. "If the mind serves itself, it will be fundamentally competitive and destructive. It will always want more of what it thinks it wants and needs. Beyond meeting certain basic survival requirements, it will always want more. It will never have enough. It will want more of this and more of that-more pleasure, more security, more recognition, more approval , more power, more dominance, more beauty. All these things become addictions of the mind. They cannot be satiated. You want more. You gain more. You are not satisfied. And of course most people do not even have enough to even live a balanced and harmonious life, so the more you want for yourself, the more you draw from the limited resources of the world, the more you deprive other people."

[@wmanadeau7860]

Thank you Alison!

[@rodb54321]

thank you for this

[@spinz7]

I binged drank for 30 years. About a week or two before my awaking I suddenly did not have a desire for alcohol or coffee. The awaking happened and I have not drank alcohol since. I about 2 cups of coffee a week now. Strange how the desire completely disappeared.

[@mikefaff-livingintheillusi9636]

I listened to your talk on alcohol with interest. I have many years of experience working in the addiction community as a therapist. Alcohol is well-known as a mood-altering substance. How the body responds to alcohol is also well-known, as well as its effect on the brain and mind. There is only one reason for using alcohol. You use it for the effect you get in the mind-body, and that is the bottom line. You can rationalize and analyze it all you want to justify its use, but it is in changing your mood that you use alcohol or any mood-altering substance. Why would you use it if it didn't change your mood and affect your mind-body? You cannot be fully available and emotionally and physically present if you are using alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol will have a physiological effect on the body. Will your conscious mind perceive those subtle differences in the mind-body? Not likely, but they are there, and presence will struggle to maintain itself. How the body feels is an interpretation of the mind, and the mind is the gateway to consciousness. The body is servant to the mind. When the servant is not present or aware, the master is open to attack and can also lose presents. The story you tell about Ramdas giving up his stash to the guru is also told by Wayne Dyer and his guru experience. Alan Watts also expresses similar stories. They make exciting and interesting conversational stories but are difficult to verify. If you are present, excited with life, and at a high state of being, why would you want to change that state at dinner time? Alcohol alters your state of being and is an excellent social lubricant as well as a mood-altering substance. Every moment is a choice. Note: I use the word "mind" with caution because no one knows what the mind is and where it's located. Peace. Mike

[@aguibells1]

Mike, thank you for posting. I found your comment very informative. ❤️

[@BigJochoa33]

Stop drinking because I felt the rebound effects,hardest thing I am still doing like said can’t touch it if you’re addicted stay strong brothers

[@ConsultancybyTS]

The most important part, is when he described how The Guru stay awakened after he took many pills, and the reason is because he was always in an awareness state, and he kept the awareness always available in the background and once the awareness is there you will be aware about what you are thinking or feeling, and once you are aware about any thought or feeling you will not be identified with it and it will not be able to control you... for sure i knew this from the great teacher Eckart Tolle, and it enhanced a lot of things in my life, i can't thank him enough :)

[@eeen99]

I am 15 years sober, afetr 30 years of drugs and alcohol abuse. Your teachings are very similar to our magnificent and out of this world 12 step program.

[@awakenotwoke7949]

I think being aware and conscious brings about responsibility . I used to drink too much wine, and demonized it ( and not my inability to control myself )and stopped. However I really enjoy the taste of wine, and have learned about its production, vast varieties, and vineyards around the world. I now enjoy a glass or two occasionally without the need to have more. Needing more than that, and needing to fiercely abstain from it are both extremes that I don't have to indulge in.

[@lemurianchick]

People don't have to fiercely abstain. They can choose to abstain because they don't want the negative effects from it. They don't need any intoxicant to make them happy.

[@meghansouth581]

It will be 8 years ago on Boxing Day I began my spiritual awakening into sobriety. I had no spiritual life in my drinking days, only hangovers and regrets.

[@WhatsItLikeToBeEnlightened]

I have met a number of alcoholics (many of whom were helped by AA)... It is amazing (and a bit heart-breaking) how deeply spiritual many of them are: they used alcohol in an attempt to fill a spiritual "hole" inside that they were never taught how to properly fill.

[@freemagicfun]

From what I have seen, many simply trade one crutch for another. Not that I would deny someone a crutch if they need it... 😎

[@montyriviera795]

I listened to ET years ago. I realised I was free, I did what I wanted. I did this with the golden rule, do no harm to others, or yourself. I've never looked back.

[@DLX1444-Asc-Nav]

Thank you all for sharing your journeys 🙏 May 2023 be an abundant and prosperous year for you all. One Love ❤️

[@johnllewlyndavies222]

Some people just stop but why would I not want regular meetings with fun friends? It's very dangerous to listen to normies regarding alcoholism because they haven't got a clue what they're talking about. I still find ET VERY helpful but I'll keep with the fellowship too, thank you very much.

[@oscarballard7911]

As we say in AA, recovery is like going up a down escalator. If you don't continue forward motion you're regressing.

[@ellekay852]

What does forward motion look like in sobriety?

[@priyank082895]

what is AA?

[@chelseyemma_]

Beautiful. All very true - since my own awakening & deep presence & self-awareness alcohol has become less appealing & even if I drink it's done consciously & never to excess anymore because it simply doesn't feel good at all!

[@cloudyrainbowcoffee]

I don't smoke anymore and I drink somewhat 2-3 times per year, usually 2-3 beers at Christmas and Juhannus( scandinavian middle summer fest). It has been working for me thus far.

[@moooo4975]

Torille

[@lemurianchick]

@@moooo4975 ????? 😳

[@moooo4975]

@@lemurianchick i reconize she's from Finland so thats just a Finnish saying 😁

[@SilverCello]

My brother was an alcoholic of many years. Sadly, he passed eleven years age at an early age. I realize now after listening to Eckhart, that he had a terrible self-concept of himself and therefore relied on alcohol as a crutch. There was only so much anybody who loved hjm could do. He was his own worst enemy. In fact, I think that he would have poo-pooed this self-awakening as part of his refusal and therefore furthered his denial of his illness. It just makes me more appreciative of a better self-concept for myself but empathetic to my brother's fateful plight

[@Moonietie]

I'm definitely feeling this, no longer can I over eat, and alcohol feels horrible (I used to be a heavy drinker) however those darn cigarettes still have me by the proverbials

[@SheilaSnyder-g2b]

I lost the taste for alcohol when I started my spiritual journey. I have a drink or two every so often now but neither fear or want intoxication. Its a different way of life ❤

[@Jad3dJane]

Thank you for speaking about this Eckhart.

[@mariatheuns550]

And I write this, being the widow of an alchoholic, who on various occasions threathened my life.

[@klaus-peterkubiak7795]

Arthur Janov once said that "if you call an alcoholic an alcoholic you call him by the way that he is trying to suppress his inner tensions". So if you meditate and release your inner tensions systematicaly it is no longer possible to become an alcoholic. And it is the best way to heal this problem.

[@pluisnonplux9728]

Yogananda is telling in his book about a friend who wanted to be enlightment so badly, but he couldn't stop drinking alcohol, but even he was an alcoholist he managed to reached enlightment!

[@staceymurray9644]

I always think of Alan Carr with this subject

[@VegasLos]

Alan Watts died because of alcohol and he seemed very spiritual.

[@Thom3748]

@@VegasLos he was a beautiful soul. But Alan didn’t walk the talk as they say…

[@kripaharris237]

He was obviously a rare case Most heavy drinkers are not in this category

[@annarichardson8222]

@@staceymurray9644 I don't think Alan Carr has reached or is even seeking enlightment lol! :D

[@shevlad]

It was hard to get it if it's good or bad to drink while doing spiritual practices. Now it's clear with your explanation, thank you

[@Dan0948]

I've been sober for 25 years and I am here to testify alcohol quenches the spirit.

[@Username45q]

Meaning dims ??

[@Dan0948]

@@Username45q Some people think "sand" quenches their thirst.

[@Dan0948]

@@Username45q To some degree for some people they seek alcohol and stop "seeking" They're "thirst" they believe is quenched

[@Username45q]

@@Dan0948 so your saying Alcohol slows your progress??

[@Dan0948]

@@Username45q Not anymore..😉

[@ILikeCoconutsLots]

Interesting what he was saying about remaining present while inebriated; everyone would always be amazed by the sheer quantity I could drink and be aware, but it's certainly not something to aspire to, I still damaged my body because of it, hopefully not permanently. Now I've stopped drinking completely life is so much better! Looking back I was really pushing the awakening experience, alcohol was the only thing I found readily available that obviously reduced awareness which at the start of awakening was preferable since I didn't understand what was happening and the anxiety connected to that initial feeling of social separation was horrible until I realised that the separation was only on a social level where of course the awakening process was removing separation and now the feeling of social separateness has gone it's been easy to just walk away from alcohol.

[@joannaedwards6325]

A good book....... YOU'RE NOT CRAZY YOU'RE JUST WAKING UP... by Michael Mirdad

[@wolfesound]

After Ayahuasca and the inner work over the years, I felt a natural aversion to alcohol and shopping. Now I need more help to quit that nicotine monster.

[@zoobrizz]

I eventually read the book by Allen Carr. The easy way to stop drinking. It’s very convincing. There’s nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol. It works . He also wrote a book on cigarettes

[@johnlewis3038]

The difference in someone awakening and an alcoholic awakening is that not only is a life saved, but those around this individual is saved from countless hours and days of suffering.

[@renidesousa]

I actually experienced Spiritual Awakening with alcohol since I was 9. I still drink. I am 83 years of age. I am in control? I don't drink much, and I don't drink less! Nice speech though!

[@ericnicholson870]

Perhaps it is not wise for anyone with a family history of alcoholism to even have one drink. Yes, he agrees!

[@sharityjoy2427]

I'm so thankful that this video is uploaded before the year 2023, before watching this entirely I thought that quitting alcohol was necessary bc in the beginning of this year I've abused this for dealing with an unhealed relationship with my ex partner, this dragged me back into unconsciously, but since a period of healing, by being alone and reading two of your books, I got the feeling from one to the other day that I don't need to do this anymore, but from time to time I enjoy a tasty glass of wine, your words really helped me by taking my decision.

[@zoobrizz]

I eventually read the book by Allen Carr. The easy way to stop drinking. It’s very convincing. There’s nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol. It works .

[@johngreen4683]

Personally I think a couple of beers can be an asset to slowing down an over active mind sometimes , while too much alcohol tends to be a depressant, especially the next day and can make everything seem much worse than it really is. Its important know and be honest with ourselves and how the things we indulge in effect us personally,, be that alcohol, thoughts and beliefs, all can be double edge swords 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@lemurianchick]

@@peace333 Ever try to do these things without an intoxicant?

[@johngreen4683]

@Late Bloomer i sometimes it's all about what gets you through that day, that time, that period of your life,. We all know that processed food, takeaway fast foods bread, coffee, tea aren't healthy , and we all know mass produced vegetables and farming are destroying our planet by realising carbon into the atmosphere, we all know the clothes we wear are made in sweatshops by children who get paid barely enough to feed themselves with, we all know the cars we drive are polluting the earth, but unconscious people who believe themselves to totally conscious pick and choose what things to label good and bad, right and wrong and choose to ignore or worst still justify their own indulgences and satisfy their ego by judging others. The reality is sometimes we all need something to help us get from A to B sometimes,, even Eckhart with his one or two glasses of wine while eating his carnivorous meal and no doubt followed by a coffee or two 😊. Let he without sin cast the first stone, as, they say 😊, if drinking is a problem for YOU and YOU want to get help then please reach out to those who are there to help, but if its not a problem please don't let egotistical judgmental people push you into anything you personally don't want to or are nit ready to do. All is well my friend 👍🙏🙏🙏

[@zoobrizz]

I eventually read the book by Allen Carr. The easy way to stop drinking. It’s very convincing. There’s nothing good that comes from drinking alcohol. It works .

[@johngreen4683]

@@zoobrizz if its right for you Dave then i am genuinely pleased for you. I wish you every happiness 🙏🙏🙏

[@smilingdancinggirl]

Thank you for clarification. Clears up a lot of my "thinking".

[@roycohen.]

I'd like to share that even after awakening, I was addicted. I overdosed. You can be awakened from a glimpse and still asleep. I had been sober for 8 years and recently relapsed. Part of Eckhart's problem is he permanently awoke spontaneously and never had to go through the journey. He can only speak from his experience. Once you totally disolve, you can relate to him, but until then, you're still caught in the life cycle of suffering.

[@bluechois]

힘내세요 응원하겠습니다 _(())_

[@SighDown]

Eckhart endured an intense ‘dark night of the soul,’ which included homelessness. Never make assumptions about another’s spiritual experience.

[@roycohen.]

@@SighDown People need to be aware that enlightenment doesn't make you infallible. I'm not judging Eckhart for whatever he went through, just like I did, we both went through tremendous pain. The difference being though from what I understand is that he simply woke up and that was it. Most people go through a long period afterwards of integration (and some never make it to the end).

[@TheHeartMystic111]

Hang in there @Roy Cohen. Trust and honor the journey and your soul. I just started my 23rd year of sobriety. My first spiritual awakening was about two years after I got sober but I continued to to be actively addicted to nicotine. I knew I needed to get smober (that’s what we call it in nicotine anonymous) and that as long as I am smoking I mask feelings and cannot in my opinion, be fully in touch with the universe and my higher self. In 2020, I quit for ten months (which is a big deal after 43 years of smoking), relapsed, quit again, relapsed, etc. I often only relapse a day or a week and then I get back on the wagon. For me that’s because I really don’t get anything out of smoking anymore it’s more a psychological addiction for me now. Not so much a physical one as it used to be. Today I am nicotine free. (You know how it goes, one day at a time). We all come to earth with a life mission and I discovered in 2021 that I also gave myself a global mission. I have become aware of and learned many new levels of awakening from 2002 to now and each new level attained leaves me In not only “awe” but each one has had its on set of lessons and challenges in getting there. Spiritual awakening is a journey and often has many steps along the way. Just as addiction usually does. I recall when I first realized I was an alcoholic 1994) but being aware did not mean that I was ready to get sober. It took more years of drinking, disasters, deaths, etc. before I completely woke up to being an alcoholic (hit bottom). Point is, there are many levels on our journey and in your words, sufferings, to get us to the the next higher levels of awakenings a long the way. Trust the journey and always believe.

[@roycohen.]

@@TheHeartMystic111 Hey Sherri, thank you for this. I resonate with you so hard, you know why? Because I continued abusing nicotine after I got "sober". The irony is I consider nicotine to be SO freaking harmful now after all of this. It's just truly insane how you can subject yourself to feeling like that. I recently picked it up again, but I've been nicotine free for 1 week. Before that I was nicotine free for a year. It's crazy because you know you are killing yourself, you know you hate this feeling but you continue. As you reach for the 20th cig of the day, you just want to die from it already. It's crazy how much I realize I don't need any drugs now. I will so however drugs had a huge role in my awakening, but at the same time, I would never, EVER tell anyone to go down the same route I did. Everything is here, now. Namaste!

[@doozy2369]

I read the power of now when I was a teen and it got me through and gave me hope when I was really struggling.

[@rakbhogal3293]

It really is the Devil's drink... It has the ability to give you an initial high but at the same time makes you depressed.

[@mytoobusr]

insidious spirit

[@sabri67]

Ubiquitous

[@stevenbell4066]

That's been my experience.

[@jacekkowalczyk7676]

Diabelskie to jest twoje myślenie i nadmiar.... nawet jedzenia ci zaszkodzi

[@alansmithee4895]

moderation in all things... including moderation

[@satchachi6458]

The word 'alcohol' comes from the Arabic 'al-kuhl' or 'al-ghawl, which could be translated as "al": spirit, and "ghawl": black, dark, ogre..... 💜💜🙏🙏

[@itsjustme9354]

Exactly thats why alcohol is called spirits. It's fire water.

[@lyndseyjane5306]

Mr Tolle, please consider talking to Andrew huberman on his programme. I did request that he talk to you , thank you

[@heidisuzi1140]

Reading about how AA started and it's early days was the beginning of my spiritual awakening.

[@Smiler369]

Thanks. It was good over Xmas but I've had enough now. Bless ya.