Ep 64: Sobriety as a Sacred Practice

June 24, 2025

Love You More

Ep 64: Sobriety as a Sacred Practice with Liz McCandless

Episode summary:

In this episode, Jen chats with the lovely Liz McCandless about her deeply personal journey to sobriety. After a big wake-up moment, Liz realized life was slipping by—and decided it was time to make a change. She opens up about her experience in rehab, the power of slowing down, and how sobriety helped her reconnect with who she really is. They dive into all the feels—grief, growth, boundaries—and how tools like yoga and sound baths have supported her healing along the way. It’s honest, empowering, and full of heart.

More about Liz:

 Liz is a dedicated yoga instructor and certified sound bath practitioner, blending movement and sound for a holistic experience. She began her yoga journey in 2009 and completed her teacher training in 2024. Liz teaches a range of styles—including vinyasa, restorative, yoga nidra, and meditation—with a focus on mind-body connection, self-discovery, and healing. Her classes create space for growth and transformation, both on and off the mat. 

Favorite Quotes:

"Resting and napping is a big part of my life and really trying to embrace it and not feel guilty about it." - Liz

"...you just take the time to listen to what you need and honor it in a moment when you can..." - Jen

"I know you can do more, but can you do less" -Joy

"There is exponential growth of sense of self, understanding myself, without alcohol." - Jen

Resources:

Rehab/Treatment:

• Cirque Lodge

Recovery Plans:

• AA
• AA Online meetings 24 hours a day/all over the world
• Apps: 
  • Meeting Guide
  • Pink Cloud
  • Everything AA
• Refuge Recovery (Buddhist influenced approach to recovery)
• Recovery St. Louis

Sober coaching/recovery healing: 

• Accountable

Books: 

• It Takes a Family: Creating Lasting Sobriety, Togetherness & Happiness by Debra Jay
• A Woman’s Way Through the 12 Steps by Stephanie S. Covington, Ph. D. 
• Unbottled Potential by Amanda Kuda (good for the sober curious woman, but really resonated for me as an alcoholic as well)
• Refuge Recovery: A Buddhist Path to Recovering from Addiction by Noah Levine

Podcasts:

• Recovery Rocks Podcast

Liz's Yoga Practice
Substack
Jennifer's Instagram
McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Instagram
McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Website