Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE): A Revolutionary Path to Healing at Live Again Detox

In the ever-evolving field of addiction recovery, one approach is making waves for its innovative and holistic philosophy: Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE). As an evidence-based treatment integrating mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and positive psychology, MORE has been shown to help people not only manage cravings but transform their relationship with pleasure and pain.

At Live Again Detox, we believe in embracing therapies like MORE that heal the mind, body, and spirit. In this article, we explore how MORE works, the science behind it, and why it’s becoming an essential part of modern addiction treatment.

🌱 What Is Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE)?

MORE is more than a therapy—it’s a life skill. Developed by Dr. Eric Garland at the University of Utah, MORE teaches individuals to redirect their focus from addictive substances to the natural joys of life.

This approach combines three core practices:

1. Mindfulness training – cultivating non-judgmental awareness of thoughts and sensations.
2. Cognitive reappraisal – learning to reframe stressful or negative experiences.
3. Savoring positive events – intentionally focusing on and amplifying life’s natural rewards.

By strengthening these skills, individuals can break free from the cycle of craving and relapse, learning instead to find fulfillment in healthy relationships, activities, and self-care.

🧠 The Neuroscience of MORE: Healing the Brain’s Reward System

Addiction hijacks the brain’s reward system, making it harder to enjoy simple pleasures like a beautiful sunset or laughter with friends. MORE helps reverse this damage.

Studies using functional MRI scans have shown that practicing MORE increases activity in brain regions tied to self-control and emotional regulation. It also enhances the brain’s sensitivity to natural rewards, helping individuals regain the ability to feel joy without relying on substances.

Dr. Garland’s research published in JAMA Psychiatry (2025) found that MORE participants experienced a 45% reduction in opioid misuse compared to those in standard support groups. This is because MORE helps rewire the brain, creating new pathways for coping with stress and cravings.

📊 Evidence-Based Results of MORE

Numerous clinical trials have validated the power of MORE:

• 🔹 Reduced cravings and relapse rates among individuals struggling with opioids, alcohol, and other substances.
• 🔹 Significant decreases in depression, anxiety, and chronic pain—common co-occurring issues in addiction recovery.
• 🔹 Enhanced emotional resilience, leading to stronger relationships and improved quality of life.

A landmark 2025 study even suggested that MORE may outperform traditional CBT in long-term relapse prevention.

🙌 How MORE Differs From Traditional Approaches

Unlike some traditional methods that focus solely on abstinence or cognitive restructuring, MORE teaches people to actively cultivate joy and re-engage with life’s natural rewards.

This proactive approach makes it particularly effective for:

• Individuals with a history of relapse
• Those dealing with co-occurring chronic pain or trauma
• People who have become emotionally numb due to long-term substance use

At Live Again Detox, MORE fits seamlessly into our holistic treatment philosophy, offering clients a chance to rebuild not only their sobriety but also their zest for living.

🧘‍♀️ Practicing Mindfulness in Daily Life: MORE’s Techniques

MORE isn’t confined to therapy sessions—it’s a set of practices you can carry into every moment of your day. Key techniques include:

• Mindful breathing to center the mind during stressful moments
• Body scanning to increase awareness of physical sensations and release tension
• Cognitive reframing to challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with empowering perspectives
• Savoring exercises like mindfully enjoying a meal, a walk in nature, or meaningful conversations

These tools empower individuals to stay grounded, even in the face of triggers and cravings.

🌿 MORE at Live Again Detox: Integrating Mindfulness Into Recovery

At Live Again Detox, we recognize that addiction affects every aspect of a person’s being—mental, emotional, and physical. That’s why MORE is integrated into our personalized treatment plans alongside medical detox, individual therapy, group counseling, and wellness services.

Clients participating in MORE-based programs at Live Again Detox report:
✅ Greater emotional stability during detox and early recovery
✅ Improved sleep and stress management
✅ A renewed sense of purpose and motivation for long-term sobriety

By empowering clients to engage with life more fully, MORE complements our mission to help individuals not just survive recovery—but truly thrive.

🌟 Why Choose Live Again Detox?

At Live Again Detox, we believe in treating addiction with compassion, innovation, and a holistic approach. MORE is just one of the many evidence-based therapies we use to help you:

✅ Heal your brain and body
✅ Rebuild your relationships
✅ Reconnect with the joy of living sober

Whether you’re taking your first steps toward recovery or looking for relapse prevention tools, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Is MORE effective for all types of addiction?

Yes, MORE has been shown to help individuals struggling with opioids, alcohol, nicotine, and even behavioral addictions like gambling. Its holistic focus makes it versatile across various challenges.

❓ How long does it take to see results with MORE?

Most participants notice positive changes within 8 weeks of consistent practice, but long-term benefits continue to grow as mindfulness becomes part of daily life.

❓ Can MORE help with chronic pain and stress?

Absolutely. Studies have found MORE to be highly effective in reducing chronic pain and stress, which are often triggers for relapse.

❓ Is MORE available at Live Again Detox?

Yes! Our clinicians are trained in Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement and can help you integrate these practices into your personalized recovery plan.