# Discover a new path to freedom with the Mindshift Method™
Behavior change starts with self-compassion, curiosity, and the courage to try a new approach.
The science behind the Mindshift Method
The Mindshift Method takes advantage of the brain’s natural reward-based learning system and uses specific awareness techniques to subvert, or “hack,” this system. It combines the latest neuroscience research with what we already know about the brain and its role in addiction to create lasting change.
This method is supported by years of research and evidence, and the development of award-winning digital therapeutics designed by Dr. Jud, and his team, such as Craving to Quit for tobacco cessation, which was shown to be five times more effective in helping individuals stop smoking than trying to quit on their own, Eat Right Now, for unhealthy eating habits had a 40% decrease in food cravings, and Unwinding Anxiety, which helped the users decrease anxiety by 57%.
An intro to the Mindshift Method
THE THREE GEARS
The Mindshift Method’s “three gears” can help you explore your problematic behaviors, uncover the rewards behind them, and learn strategies to step out of harmful behaviors with curiosity and kindness. Let's take a closer look at each gear.
1st Gear
First gear is about learning to recognize your behavioral patterns at a deep level. In Gear 1, you map out your habit loops and develop a deep understanding how your mind works. That’s the first step in making a change.
2nd Gear
Second gear helps you see the full picture with the simple question: “What do I get from this addictive behavior?” Understanding the full impact gives your brain new information, fostering disenchantment with the behaviors you want to change and strengthening healthy new ones.
3rd Gear
Third gear is about finding something better to replace your old habits, what we call the “Bigger Better Offer” (BBO). More than simple substitution, with 3rd gear you can step out of your old addictive habit loop and into the present moment to find and choose something better.
The Mindshift Method tools & practices
Mindshift Recovery offers three ways to practice the method: Our free Mindshift Recovery app, a live 8-week online course, and a weekly online community meeting. Here are some of the tools you’ll have access to:
Guided audio lessons explaining the Mindshift Method and techniques
Shorter mindfulness practices to build consistent awareness even when you don’t have time for longer sessions.
Check-in tool in the app that teaches you to drop into how you’re feeling in the moment.
Tools to track your habits and see your behaviors change over time.
Craving tools to work with difficult behaviors and emotions
Guided meditations, like body scanning, noting, lovingkindness, and curiosity to build your awareness.
Practice the method with us
The Mindshift Recovery App
Our app gives you instant access to our clinically proven recovery program. It features guided lessons, powerful behavior change tools, mindfulness exercises, and the community support you need to make your recovery stick.
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The Mindshift Recovery Weekly Meeting
Sign up for our recovery Zoom every Thursday (12pm ET / 9am PT) to work with the tools in real time and with others in recovery.
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Join our next meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99028102257The Mindshift Recovery Online Course
Join the next cohort of our live 8-week online course. You’ll learn the Mindshift Method live to get a more in-depth understanding of the tools you’ll use every day.
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Mindshift Method FAQ
How does Mindshift work with 12-step and other recovery approaches?
Mindshift complements other recovery approaches effectively providing unique enhancements. Our methods can be used on their own or integrated with other programs and approaches.
What does it cost?
We aim to make our tools and programs accessible to everyone. The App and Weekly Recovery Meeting are free, and our course fees vary from low to no cost. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay, with scholarships and sliding scale pricing available
What is the research behind this?
Our program is based on the work of Dr. Jud Brewer, an addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist, and practical experience working with over 100,000 people using digital versions of this program. You can find more about the research here.
What is the Mindshift Method?
The Mindshift method is an award-winning evidence-based three-step program that helps people deal with unwanted behaviors, addictions, habits, and anxiety. It helps you understand how your brain works so you can work with it to change your behaviors at the source — little to no willpower needed.
What are the three gears?
The Mindshift Method’s “three gears” are a science-backed approach to rewiring your brain’s reward system to make problematic behaviors, habits, and addictions less rewarding at a neurological level. The approach helps you explore your addictive behaviors, uncover the rewards behind them, and learn strategies to step out of harmful behaviors with curiosity and kindness.
The three gears are:
– Becoming aware of your habits and addictions
– Observing and embodying the results of your behavior
– Replacing old habits with a “bigger better offer”Â
What makes Mindshift different from other recovery approaches?
The Mindshift Method is rooted in the latest neuroscience and utilizes awareness practices to rewire your brain’s responses and establish new behaviors. It is *not* willpower based and does not rely on traditional cognitive techniques like CBT.
Is this a mindfulness-based approach?
The Mindshift Method does include mindfulness practices, but they are a tool to activate your brain’s reward-based learning system to actually reduce or eliminate cravings, rather than simply learning to “mindfully” accept them. These techniques can also reduce self-doubt and criticism, increasing your ability to create lasting change. This approach works whether you have zero experience with mindfulness or have deep experience with meditation or programs like Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP).
How do I start using Mindshift?
– Download the app and get started right away with access to the tools, lessons, and practices.
– Join our weekly free online meeting at 12pm ET / 9am PT every Thursday. You can just listen in or ask questions or share your experience. Whatever works for you.
– Sign up for one of our live 8-week courses (for a fee.) Sign up to be notified when the next class starts here.
Can I use the Mindshift Method on my own?
Absolutely. Download the app to get started. It also goes well with 12-step-based programs, SMART Recovery, therapy, and other programs.
What tools does Mindshift offer for cravings and anxiety?
Mindshift offers self-care tools like RAIN, Body Scan, and Loving Kindness to help you navigate difficult moments and stay on track with your recovery.
Is Mindshift suitable for everyone?
Yes. Originally designed for people struggling with substance use and alcohol, the approach has been studied with a wide range of problematic behaviors and addictions, including smoking, vaping, pot, food cravings, binge and emotional eating, anxiety, problematic digital behaviors, and more. Whether you’re just starting your journey to reclaim your life, or you’re looking for new ways to strengthen your recovery, Mindshift can work for you.
How often should I engage with Mindshift practices?
We recommend incorporating Mindshift practices into your daily routine. Regular engagement helps reinforce positive changes and supports ongoing behavior change.
How can I stay connected with the Mindshift community?
Join our weekly meetings every Thursday at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET, follow us on social media, and participate in our online forums to stay connected and supported on your recovery journey.
Your journey to lasting recovery
starts here.
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