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About the SMART Buddhist Web Site

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This site is focused on showing a path to lasting recovery from dependence on destructive substances and behaviors. The basis of much information and techniques used here are obtained from Self Management and Recovery Training (SMART). For more information on SMART, please visit SMARTRecovery.org.

In addition to the scientifically researched and tested resources used in SMART, this site adds additional techniques and understanding found in Buddhist Philosophy. Generally, this site will avoid the religious aspects of Buddhism. However, religion may be touched on in the context of understanding the philosophy. The focus here is on using the knowledge of how the mind works through perception and thought, and how to archive lasting happiness partly based on the 2,400 years that Buddhist have been rationally looking for answers.

Focus of This Site:

  • Motivate to abstain from destructive behaviors.
  • Understand the true causes of destructive urges and actions.
  • Imparts useful skills to cope with thoughts, and feelings.
  • Encourage the balance between momentary and enduring happiness.

Core Recovery Beliefs:

  • Addiction is a results of our choices and actions; not a disease.
  • We can learn to choose healthier actions and to be free from addiction.
  • By addressing the causes of discomfort, not the symptom, we can find true happiness.

Buddhist Beliefs:

To lead a productive life, follow the Five Lay Precepts:

  • Abstain from the destruction of life.
  • Abstain from taking that which is not given.
  • Abstain from unhealthy sexual interaction.
  • Abstain from falsehood to self and others.
  • Abstain from intoxicants that cloud the mind.

To understand ourselves and the Universe, follow the Eight Fold Path:

  • Right View – See the world as it truly exists.
  • Right Intention – Acknowledge true motivations.
  • Right Speech – Be truthful and compassionate.
  • Right Action – Make beneficial choices.
  • Right Livelihood – Have passion for the things we do.
  • Right Effort – Do not exert useless energy.
  • Right Mindfulness – Be aware of what’s happening now.
  • Right Concentration – Focus on the important.