The altar thing does sound intriguing (not really sure how to spell that..) it could be good to shine the spotlight on whatever it is your craving, like you said remove it's power.
As to the mantra, it reminded me of WW has a tool called anchoring, you focus on an object, like say a ring or bracelet or your bead necklace and say your mantra or goal, keep practicing that and after time when you look at your anchor your mantra or goal will come into your mind. it was a good reminder, I'm going to start doing that again, thanks!
best to all
Joss, just read your stories, amazing, congrats on your success and thanks for your service!
