In a randomized, double-blind experiment published in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, University College London researchers found that among 68 heavy drinkers, just 11 minutes of recorded mindfulness training reduced drinking. Subjects were closely matched with an active control group that was taught relaxation techniques. Seven days later, the mindfulness group on average drank 9.3 fewer units of alcohol, roughly equal to three pints of beer, while the relaxation group showed no drop in alcohol consumption.

This article appears in the February 2018 issue of Natural Awakenings.