Sunday, October 23, 2011

Pain- It's Not In Your Head, But Your Head Can Help It

Pain is usually perceived as a physical problem. It is a physical sensation from the body. Modern medicine has used medication to tame the pain. Unfortunately, many of the medications entail serious side effects and the body seems to build up resistance to them.

Meditation has been shown to greatly reduce the unpleasantness of the pain. Moreover, people who meditate frequently have higher pain thresholds and lowered anxiety regarding body pain. Other psychological interventions like hypnosis, biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy have shown to be very effective at managing pain. These methods are relatively inexpensive and carry no side effects. They actually strengthen our mental state. These methods show that pain is a mental state regarding a condition or sensation of the body. If we can calm our thoughts and feelings regarding the body sensation, then it does not hurt as badly. Think of a karate expert that can chop through wood or a tribesman that can walk through fiery coals. The mind is more powerful than our bodies.

In Ayurveda the balance of the mind and body is needed to achieve health. We are more than just our bones, neurons and cellular tissue. Balance is achieved through physical methods of diet, exercise and herbal recommendations. These methods can impact the mind and spirit as well, since they are directed to a person's unique body type, which is a combination of the physical and mental characteristics. In addition, the mental qualities of the body type can be balanced through meditation and this will promote balance to the physical body. It is a connected relationship.

When we realize the control our minds have over our reality, the endless possibilities of joy, freedom and strength are ours for the taking. Cultivating this state requires persistence but many new things do. Success starts with the first small step and builds upon itself. Lose the pain and feel something better.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa

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