Psychology Professor & Substance Abuse Counselor | Andrew Assini | TEDxPittsburghStatePrison

Summary

Andrew 'Drew' Jini shares his inspiring journey from addiction to recovery, beginning with a transformative moment in prison. Struggling with addiction and lost potential, he turned to meditation as a means of survival, which later became a crucial tool for emotional healing. Drew’s practice of mindfulness and yoga helped him rebuild his life, earn degrees, and become a professor and licensed counselor. Now, through his holistic wellness center, he guides others on their own path to recovery, emphasizing the power of inner peace and self-awareness in overcoming life's challenges.

Takeaways

• 😀 Drew's journey of recovery began in an orange jumpsuit, at rock bottom, feeling lost and hopeless.
• 😀 Meditation was Drew’s first tool for survival in detox, helping him confront emotions and gain clarity.
• 😀 Despite initial resistance, Drew discovered that meditation offered deep, transformative benefits for his mind and emotions.
• 😀 Drew learned the value of mindfulness in the present moment, helping him detach from destructive thoughts and fears.
• 😀 Through meditation, Drew realized that peace isn’t dependent on external circumstances, but on the inner state of mind.
• 😀 Yoga became an essential part of Drew’s recovery, deepening his mindfulness practice and connecting body, mind, and breath.
• 😀 Drew rebuilt his life by going back to school, earning his degrees, and eventually becoming a professor in the same department.
• 😀 His journey of personal transformation led to him opening S’Vama Well-Being, a holistic wellness center for individuals in recovery.
• 😀 The wellness center focuses on mindfulness, yoga, and courses aimed at helping people cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.
• 😀 Drew emphasizes that true freedom comes from within, encouraging others to look inward for peace rather than relying on external achievements.

Q & A

What is the significance of Drew’s 'rock-bottom moment' in his recovery journey?

Drew’s rock-bottom moment, when he found himself in an orange jumpsuit detoxing in a prison facility, marked the point where he realized he needed to change. It was in this moment of despair that he understood the depth of his addiction and began searching for a way to transform his life, ultimately leading him to meditation and mindfulness practices.

How did Drew’s view of meditation change over time?

Initially, Drew viewed meditation as an abstract and difficult practice, especially compared to the instant gratification he got from drugs. However, during his time in the facility, he began to experience its value firsthand. Meditation helped him manage fear, face his emotions, and detach from the overwhelming stories of his past, providing a sense of peace.

What role did yoga play in Drew’s recovery?

Yoga played an important role in Drew's recovery by offering him a way to connect with his body, breath, and present moment awareness. What he initially thought of as a superficial practice, yoga became a powerful tool for mindful breathing and self-reflection, complementing his meditation practice in his ongoing journey of healing.

Why does Drew emphasize the importance of internal peace over external possessions?

Drew emphasizes that lasting peace comes from within, rather than external possessions or achievements. He argues that in modern society, we often focus on acquiring things like cars or homes to feel fulfilled, but these are temporary. By turning inward and developing self-awareness, we can find lasting contentment and freedom, regardless of external circumstances.

What is Drew’s perspective on the immediate solutions society often seeks?

Drew reflects that modern society tends to seek immediate solutions, especially through pharmaceuticals, to solve life’s challenges. While some of these solutions are necessary, he believes that true healing often comes through practices like meditation, which require patience and time to cultivate, rather than seeking quick fixes.

How does Drew’s background as a psych professor and counselor influence his approach to helping others?

Drew’s experience as a psych professor and licensed counselor gives him a unique ability to blend academic knowledge with personal insight. Having experienced addiction firsthand, he understands the challenges others face and uses his position to teach mindfulness and recovery strategies, offering a holistic approach to healing that includes both mental and emotional growth.

What impact did meditation have on Drew during his time in the detox facility?

Meditation helped Drew deal with intense emotions and fear while in the detox facility. It allowed him to step back from the overwhelming thoughts and memories of his past, giving him a moment of clarity and peace. This experience laid the foundation for him to continue using meditation as a tool for emotional regulation throughout his recovery.

What does Drew mean by 'the experience works best' in his talk?

When Drew says 'the experience works best,' he’s referring to the idea that personal experiences of meditation, mindfulness, and recovery are the most powerful teachers. The insights gained through one’s own practice, rather than just theoretical knowledge, are what truly lead to transformation and lasting change.

How does Drew integrate his past struggles into his current role as a professor and wellness advocate?

Drew uses his past struggles with addiction to connect with and inspire students and clients. He shares his story of recovery openly, showing that even the lowest points can lead to growth and change. His personal experience allows him to approach teaching and counseling with empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those in recovery.

What is the mission of S.Vama Wellbeing, and how does it reflect Drew’s personal journey?

S.Vama Wellbeing is a holistic wellness center that Drew founded to offer yoga, meditation, and courses focused on personal growth and awareness. It reflects Drew’s journey by providing a space for others to explore mindfulness and recovery practices, helping individuals, especially those in early recovery, develop a deeper understanding of themselves and find peace.