Your Pain

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When was the last time you experienced pain? We know pain can surface in physical and emotional forms. Perhaps, you are going through a difficult moment now.

In the States, you have brawls in Alabama and fires in Hawaii. Both incidents incite pain among individuals and communities.

According to current research, reports of neck pain are on the increase. We have our addiction to the screens of our cellphones and computers to blame for posture compromises. Inactive lifestyles also contribute to spine-related injuries.

The options for treatment are plentiful. An appropriate remedy for you might involve medication, meditation, and movement.

Let’s not neglect the importance of rest.

With the legalization of marijuana, it’s challenging to discuss pain remedies without mentioning CBD oil. Some swear by marijuana's healing properties, and others link the overuse of it to memory and learning challenges. You decide what you want to believe.

Pain is how our brains hold attention in a society filled with distractions. Neurons communicate problems and expect us to respond with solutions.

Since my last post, I’ve experienced physical and emotional pain.

A pinched nerve began as tightness in my shoulder. Then, it traveled down my right arm, rested in my bicep, and settled into my hand. The tingling and numbness throughout my right arm made it difficult to write and exercise.

Pain attempted to block my primary self-care practices. This post and the sweat-drenched workout clothes hung to dry let you know I found a way to persevere.

In addition to the pinched nerve, I managed my emotions after learning about the passing of a colleague. We weren't close, but we worked together on a committee last semester. I admired his courage to challenge administrative policies at the university.

His death shocked the campus.

I don’t know how you currently manage the pain in your life. If you ignore it, please allow these words to serve as the sign to retire that approach. Don’t hesitate to get the help you need.

Perhaps, you need to see a therapist, talk with a friend, make a doctor's appointment or engage in some form of self-help.

What works for me today is a combination of movement, mindfulness, and medicine. This week I exercised, meditated, wrote, prayed, modified my diet, and took meds. The pinched nerve is still with me, but I am healing.

In addition to the pain management options discussed and linked in this blog post, reflecting on experiences with family can help you identify remedies. See this month’s vlog episode below of this summer’s travels with my daughter. It helped me gain perspective on pain's temporary role in life.

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