This book represents the collective wisdom and shared experiences of the Society of Nondualists, a new fellowship of individuals dedicated to a nondualistic philosophical approach to life and recovery from addictive and avoidant behaviors. We welcome you to explore the insights and practices contained here, hoping they resonate and support you in rediscovering the wholeness that has always been within you. While we do not claim to offer an approach that will work for everyone, we provide a proven path to awakening, rooted in evergreen philosophical wisdom and adaptable to a wide range of recovery experiences.
Nondual Recovery transcends traditional recovery frameworks by addressing the root of addiction and avoidance: the delusion of disconnection. Unlike conventional models that treat addiction as a disease or moral failing, this approach reframes addiction as a problem of perception—a fundamental misunderstanding of reality that leads individuals to seek fulfillment through external means. True healing arises from establishing deeper levels of connection—with ourselves, others, and the infinite mystery beyond every finite being. We call this a return to Oneness (Not-Two) or a realization of Wholeness, and we believe that alignment with this reality brings expanded consciousness and freedom from destructive patterns.
Unlike many rigid programs, Nondual Recovery is intentionally inclusive and individualized. There is no singular recovery path. Instead, we encourage each individual to develop their own Nondual Recovery Plan (NRP), a personalized approach to healing that respects one’s unique beliefs, needs, and lived experiences. This model integrates wisdom from psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, offering a holistic framework for transformation. By combining mindfulness, meditation, self-inquiry, and presence, this book provides tools that allow recovery to be not just a method of coping but a gateway to awakening.
Beyond the personal, Nondual Recovery also challenges systemic and cultural factors that contribute to addiction and avoidance. In a world dominated by consumerism, competition, and disconnection, many forms of suffering stem from societal conditioning rather than personal failings. This book acknowledges these forces, offering a lens through which we can critique and transcend the cultural addictions that reinforce cycles of craving and avoidance
Consensual anonymity is an essential value for the Society. While not all members insist on anonymity, some desire anonymity to protect their privacy or to focus on the shared mission rather than personal identity. Other members of the Society—being professionals—wish to separate their occupation from their recovery work, which is an avocation. To maintain inclusivity and mutual respect, we ask all members to identify as “a member of the Society of Nondualists” rather than using their proper names whenever it is practical to do so. Or, as our anonymous co-founder “Tim B.” has done, you can use a pseudonym. This practice helps preserve a sense of equality and shared purpose within our fellowship
This book—affectionately called The Violet Book by some of us—is a kind of textbook for members of the Society and beyond. It is intended to educate and inspire members, explain our mission, and provide guidance to suffering addicts and avoidants who may benefit from our approach. We recommend reading it from front to back to gain a comprehensive understanding of nondualistic recovery. The book is organized into 52 chapters, each with seven sections, plus front and back matter. For those who wish to complete it in a year, you may read one section a day for 364 days, making it a companion for your journey of transformation. Use the Daily Calendar provided in Appendix A for a schedule that aligns each section of this book to a particular day. We also recommend studying this literature together with a group of fellow persons in active recovery.
Nondual Recovery is neither dogma nor rigid doctrine. It establishes no hierarchies, introduces no prohibitions or mandates, and you don’t have to buy a new wardrobe. Instead, it offers philosophical principles and practical tools for anyone seeking liberation from addiction and avoidance. We have written this book not only for the 1 in 5 individuals struggling with substance-related addiction but also for anyone who feels trapped in patterns of craving, fear, or emotional numbness. If you have ever sensed an indefinable lack of freedom or fulfillment, this book may hold a perspective that resonates with you.
Nevertheless, we invite all who feel drawn to this path to explore, question, and adapt its teachings to their own journey. The website of our Society, www.nondualists.org, is a valuable resource for further engagement. There, you can find a list of online and in-person meetings, workshops, and webinars. If you are interested in forming your own online or in-person meeting, the website provides detailed resources and guidelines to support you in doing so.
Share this book widely and wisely. You can find the book available freely in multiple formats at www.nondualrecovery.com, and you can purchase it in other formats from Amazon and other booksellers.
We invite you to join us in this transformative work. Together, as individuals and as a community, we have the power to rediscover wholeness, bring healing into our lives, and share it with a world in need.
“TIM B.”
