On this week’s Sober Life Rocks Podcast, we welcomed mindful sobriety coach Hamza Najam, a recovery coach, meditation facilitator, and founder of a mindful recovery community. Hamza’s story takes us from growing up in Pakistan, where alcohol is illegal, to the depths of addiction in Canada—and ultimately to a life built on stillness, neuroscience, and deep healing.

From Secret Binge Drinking to Public Excess

In Pakistan, alcohol was taboo, but Hamza and his friends found ways to drink—chugging entire bottles in secrecy. This binge-style pattern followed him to Canada, where alcohol was everywhere. The freedom led to heavy drinking, entry into the electronic music scene, and substance use as a daily norm.

Hitting Rock Bottom and Seeking Change

By his 20s, Hamza felt like a lost cause. Multiple attempts at recovery, including AA and therapy, helped in part but didn’t click completely. Then he discovered meditation—a practice that initially brought him to tears but ultimately became the foundation of his healing.

The Power of Stillness

Through daily meditation, journaling, and self-reflection, Hamza shifted his focus from resisting alcohol to understanding the reasons behind his drinking. Sobriety began to feel like a choice, not a punishment.

Blending Mindfulness with Science

Hamza deepened his knowledge through mindfulness-based stress reduction training and a neuroscience certification from Harvard Extension. He learned that once you understand what’s driving your urges, you can address the root causes rather than just the symptoms.

Building the Breathe Sober Community

Wanting to share his approach, Hamza became a nationally certified alcohol recovery coach and launched Breathe Sober—an online community offering courses and programs focused on the deeper work of recovery. His philosophy: drinking is often a symptom of deeper pain, and real recovery addresses that pain directly.

The Social Shifts of Sobriety

Hamza acknowledges the reality that some friendships fade when alcohol is no longer the bond. But this opens the door to more authentic relationships built on growth and shared values.

Tools for Life’s Challenges

Life still brings challenges, but mindfulness, neuroscience, and intentional community have given Hamza and his clients the resilience to respond rather than react.

Final Thoughts

Hamza’s story shows that recovery is not just about quitting alcohol—it’s about reclaiming the ability to feel, heal, and live with intention. His journey blends spirituality, science, and community into a path that others can follow toward freedom.

Stay Connected with Hamza:

• Website: breathesober.com
• Instagram: @hamzanajam.sobrietycoaching
• YouTube: Breathe Sober

The post Episode 65: Mindful Sobriety Coach Hamza Najam: Healing Through Meditation, Neuroscience, and Community first appeared on Sober Life Rocks.