An interview with Kaylie Babine, Recovery Specialist at MyPIR and facilitator of Meditation Reset.
Essex County Outreach is excited to announce a new youth meditation meeting, Meditation Reset, put on by Massachusetts’ Young People in Recovery (MyPiR) at the ECO office (82 Elm St, Salisbury, MA) on Tuesdays at noon.
Meditation Reset is a weekly space where young people in recovery can slow down, breathe, and reconnect. We spoke with Kaylie Babine, who leads the group, about how meditation supports recovery and what participants can expect when they walk through the door.
Q: What is Meditation Reset, and who is it designed for?
Meditation Reset is a safe space for people in recovery to focus on the benefits of meditation in recovery and life, as well as support one another on the recovery journey. Meditation Reset is designed for people in recovery who are looking to improve their recovery, improve their quality of life, and find a support network in the recovery community.
Q: What inspired you to start facilitating this group?
I have been in recovery myself for eight years. I started meditating consistently three years ago. Meditation was the missing puzzle piece in my recovery. Since my journey began, I’ve been happier, less stressed, and more present. It has made a positive impact on all aspects of my life. Knowing the benefits of meditation in recovery is what made me want to bring this as a resource to the community.
Q: Why do you believe meditation is beneficial for people in recovery?
Meditation has been shown to increase “happy hormones” in the brain such as dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. In addiction, this is often what people struggling are searching for, that good feeling. Meditation gives people the ability to feel good without needing anything outside of themselves. It has been shown to improve inner peace, emotional well-being, stress reduction, and fatigue management. Meditation is an effective tool in the recovery toolbox to prevent relapse, relieve stress, and feel good.
Q: Are there specific types or styles of meditation practiced in this group?
We focus on guided meditations related to stress relief, positive visualization, and feeling good.
Q: Do participants need any prior meditation experience?
No prior experience is needed. This is an open group for anyone who is looking to improve their recovery.
Q: How does Meditation Reset differ from a traditional recovery meeting?
In Meditation Reset, we are focusing on building a skill that benefits the recovery journey, as well as a support network. We are not a 12-step group or associated with any 12-step groups. We are a support network for individuals looking to improve their recovery.
Q: What do you hope people take away from each session?
I hope people walk out the door always feeling better than they did walking in the door. I hope that they feel supported, calm, and a sense of inner peace.
Q: What advice would you give someone who feels unsure about trying meditation?
Start small, be kind to yourself, and let go of expectation. Meditation is a practice, not a performance. The goal is not to stop your thoughts, but to change your relationship to them.
Q: How does meditation support ongoing recovery and emotional wellness?
Increased self-control, enhanced emotional regulation, improved mood, and reduced stress.
Q: What makes this group especially meaningful to you as a facilitator?
My passion is to help people who are struggling build the support network they need to live the life they truly want.
Meditation Reset meets every Tuesday. The group is open to young people in recovery who want to learn practical mindfulness skills, connect with others, and strengthen their sense of peace and purpose. All are welcome. No experience needed.