Pain is a messenger.

Pain is not the enemy. It is a message from the nervous system that needs to be acknowledged.

We have a tendency to run from painful experiences, numb physical discomfort, or feel victimized by the consumption of pain.

Pain is like a flashing red light in your brain telling you to pay attention. It is asking you to slow down. It is an invitation to travel inward to seek what is being communicated.

Sitting with pain can feel daunting, overwhelming, and even terrifying. Being present for a few breaths can help you tune in and listen to what your body is trying to tell you. Building this body awareness and learning how your body communicates can be an empowering experience.

I invite you to try the following:

• Ask out loud “What is this pain telling me?” This can feel awkward but vocalizing your query plants the seed of your quest.

• Be patient but be persistent. Continually tune in and observe painful sensations, whether of body or mind.

• If thoughts arise that feel irrelevant, do not discount them. It may seem strange a distant memory is showing up when you question your pain.

• Pain can be old trauma sitting in the nervous system. It can be your resistance to working a job that does not align with your values. It can be a disconnection from your culture and roots.

• Often we want to blame injury for persistent pain, but if the injury is healed and no structural damage is present, why is your body still receiving the alarm bells?

Slow down and listen. This is a wonderful opportunity to move some energy and experience growth. Pain is the effective messenger not the cause.

Dig deep within yourself and see what you can find.

Health and Light,