Hold the Phone! Is Your Pain an Opinion, Not a Fact?

We all know pain. That sharp sting, the dull ache, the throbbing reminder that something's amiss. But what if I told you that the intensity of that pain, the very "ouchiness" of it, isn't always a reflection of physical reality?

Buckle up, because here comes a mind-bender: Pain is actually your brain's opinion on how much it needs you to pay attention to protect yourself. Yes, you read that right. Forget the simplistic model of pain as a direct response to tissue damage. It's more like a complex internal debate your brain is having, considering a whole bunch of factors before delivering its verdict: How much pain do you get?

Imagine your brain asking these questions

"Can I focus on this pain right now, or are there bigger threats?" If you're running from a lion, a stubbed toe might only get a passing "meh."

"How scared am I of pain in general?" Some of us are built-in drama queens, amplifying every twinge.

"How well can my body handle this?" A seasoned athlete might shrug off a muscle strain that sends a newbie whimpering.

"What will dealing with this pain cost me?" Will it mean missing work, canceling plans, or facing emotional stress? The brain weighs the options.

Based on these internal deliberations, your brain assigns a "pain level" – your personal “ouchometer” reading. It might crank it up to a searing 10 for a paper cut if you're already stressed and facing a deadline. Or, it might keep things chill for a broken bone if you're in survival mode after an accident.

So, what does this mean for you?

Pain is valid, no matter the cause or intensity. Don't let anyone dismiss your "it's all in your head" comments. Your brain's opinion matters! Managing pain involves more than just physical solutions. Addressing stress, anxiety, and negative beliefs can be surprisingly effective pain tamers.

New treatment options emerge: Mind-body approaches like mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy can rewire your brain's pain dial.

Remember, pain is a message, not a master. Listen to what your brain is saying, but don't accept its opinion as the final word. You have the power to understand and manage your pain, and live a fuller life, ouch-free or not.

Coming in May 2024

Chronic pain can hold you back from living life to the fullest. But what if there was a way to manage pain that was not only effective, but also enjoyable and empowering? Dance-based movement interventions are revolutionizing chronic pain management. This innovative approach goes beyond traditional exercise, combining physical activity with creative expression and emotional release

An Interview with Ianthe Basson - Movement Coach and Programme Developer

Freedom-2-Move

Our revolutionary 30 day programme brings you hope and relief from chronic pain. We are here to help you get back to living your life fully with joy, passion and freedom. By following this dance based program, you will learn how to become more active in spite of your challenges. You can do it! Take back control of your life now.