I want this article to be of immense help to you if you are experiencing pain. Pain is a complicated subject. There are different types and it can be difficult to find the root of it. Unhealed trauma, physical injuries, years of taking in the wrong foods or drinks, subluxations. The list goes on.
The tricky thing with pain is that it keeps the fight or flight response going, and our reactions to it, trying to numb or distract make it continue. For instance- there is pain present. To lessen it, you turn to alcohol. This is inflammatory and ends up causing more pain and weakening.
Anti Inflammatory Diet: Natural foods, no alcohol. Wheat and soy can be inflammatory for some people. And artificial flavors and preservatives are as well. Natural foods like chicken and fish, fruits and vegetables- especially dark leafy greens, olive oil. These are all anti inflammatory. Look into superfoods, herbs, and medicinal mushrooms. They help the body and mind a lot.
Slow, deep, mindful breathing: With pain, it can be easy to feel restricted- often in order to not worsen it. That can manifest as shallow breathing. This turns the nervous system on fight/flight/freeze which can keep the cycle going. Slowing down, feeling your feet, affirming you are safe and breathing into the belly. This can be great to break the loop of pain/reaction.
Get the blood flowing: Again, many times pain causes feelings of restriction. Getting up and stretching, foam rolling, or going for a walk can be a great, easy step to reduce pain.
Offering yourself compassion and kindness: This can be done any time but especially when you slow down and breathe deep and slow. I believe pain and self attack go hand in hand. Having a program running that stems from childhood that says you’re not worthy, or dumb or your view or ideas aren’t valid- this can be intertwined with pain. Offering compassion and kindness can be huge here. I feel it can soften those unhelpful programs. This is also why I think it can be helpful to read a spiritual text from time to time- or a lot- something that reminds you to be kind and keep at it. There are some great Pema Chodron books that teach about unconditional friendliness with yourself. One book is “When Things Fall Apart”. Check it out.
So there are four ideas to work with pain. There are many ways to lessen it and untangle it, don’t forget that.
Wishing you health and strength!
