In this episode, Richard shares an extraordinary story of addiction, recovery, psychosis, a near-death experience, and ultimately discovering a deeper spiritual purpose.

Growing up in an environment where excessive drinking and substance use felt normal, Richard gradually moved from social use into severe addiction. What began as alcohol and drugs became a way of coping with every aspect of life, eventually consuming his relationships, career, finances, and sense of self. As the addiction progressed, isolation replaced connection, and life became centred entirely around obtaining the next drink or drug.

Recognising the destruction addiction was causing, Richard entered 12-Step recovery. Through the support of the recovery community, counselling, service to others, and developing a relationship with a higher power, he achieved several years of sobriety. During this period he rebuilt his life, developed healthier relationships, and experienced hope and stability for the first time.

However, following the sudden death of his father, the breakdown of a significant relationship, and overwhelming emotional stress, Richard experienced a severe mental health crisis. Despite remaining sober, he developed persistent voices, visual experiences, and was diagnosed with psychosis. Medical treatment brought little relief, and after eventually relapsing, he accidentally overdosed.

During the overdose, Richard experienced what he describes as a profound near-death experience. Leaving his physical body, he encountered an overwhelming sense of peace, unconditional love, and what felt like returning home. Given the choice to stay or return, he chose to come back, knowing he did not want to leave his family carrying the pain of his death.

After returning, Richard was guided towards energy healing. Through Spirit Release work and learning to understand his own energetic sensitivity, the distressing voices and visual experiences ceased. This marked the beginning of a second phase of healing—one that moved beyond recovery into a deeper understanding of spirituality, consciousness, and personal transformation.

That journey eventually led him to train in energy healing, Qigong, yoga, and sound healing. Today, Richard supports others experiencing addiction, spiritual awakening, and personal transformation, combining his lived experience with the healing modalities he now teaches and practises.

Richard speaks with remarkable honesty about both the darkness of addiction and the hope that healing can bring.

Guest – Richard Newman
Energy Healer, Qigong Instructor, Sound Healer, Yoga Teacher, and Tutor)
Instagram: @soaringravenholistichealing
https://www.soaringraven.net

Host – Cindy Cromble-Holme
Director, International School of Intuition and Healing
https://www.cindyholmes.co.uk
cindy@schoolofintuitionandhealing.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-cromble-holme

International School of Intuition and Healing
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