Explore Cecily Mak's groundbreaking approach to alcohol and other 'dimming' habits that numb our life experiences. Learn how the 'Eight Awarenesses' framework offers a shame-free path to clarity beyond traditional addiction narratives.

Creado por exalumnos de la Universidad de Columbia en San Francisco
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Creado por exalumnos de la Universidad de Columbia en San Francisco

Lena: Hey Miles, have you noticed how many people are rethinking their relationship with alcohol these days? It seems like everyone I know is either doing a "dry January" or talking about being "sober curious."
Miles: Absolutely, Lena. It's become such a cultural shift, and that's exactly what this fascinating new book "Undimmed" by Cecily Mak explores. What struck me most was how she challenges this binary thinking we have about alcohol—that you either have a "problem" or you don't.
Lena: Right! I remember reading that when she decided to take a break from drinking, people would say, "Oh, I didn't know you had a problem." As if the only reason to stop drinking is if you've hit rock bottom.
Miles: Exactly. She makes this brilliant point that what you use to "dim" your life might not even be alcohol—it could be exercise, food, work, social media—anything we use to avoid difficult emotions.
Lena: That's such a powerful reframe. Instead of asking "Do I have a problem?" we can ask "Is this habit dimming my experience of life?" You know, making both the good and bad parts less vivid.
Miles: And she developed these "Eight Awarenesses" as principles to help people break free from these habits. What I love is that it's not about shame or labeling yourself—it's about choosing to live with more clarity and presence.
Lena: So let's explore how these "dimming" habits show up in our lives and what Mak's approach offers that's different from traditional thinking about addiction and recovery.