Day 25 Reflections

[Archie]

Hi, I am very slowly working my way through the SEP and after several weeks am at day 25. Initially I got very anxious that I wasn't progressing faster , but then decided to give myself a break and work at my own pace. I have been doing a lot of useful journaling, bringing up a lot of rage and difficult emotions, which has been helpful, and my symptoms are getting better. Other things have been popping up which I am pretty sure is due to the symptom imperative, but I am trusting in the process and that they will also go away.
I get quite anxious at times when I read the TMS forums because of the difficulties that people have, and worry that I will also have them! And also range from feeling hugely positive and hopeful, through to feeling overwhelmed by all the "good things I should be doing" to help recovery, and worried that I am not doing it right, should be doing other things, should be doing more etc. etc. - which I know is a direct result of my "TMS personality" !!! The main next step for me is to find ways to practice self-compassion/ soothing/ self-acceptance, as my default is to push myself hard all the time.
It is a great programme, and aside from the symptom relief, it has helped me enormously from an emotional point of view. Thankyou Dr Sarno.

 

[MWsunin12]

Archie,

Yes...it's often not the best, if you feel impressionable, to read other people's posts if they have symptoms you fear.

Fear is the big obstacle to wellness, I think. My head can get caught up in so many "worst case scenarios."

In a self-soothing way, I remind myself that my brain is not used to seeking happiness and that I will have to make happiness a habit that I practice.
This way I'm not always thinking: What is wrong with you???

I also put my hand over my own heart and say out loud: "All is well. I am safe. I am safe. I am moving in the direction of complete wellness."

best wishes. Thanks for posting your story.

 

[Archie]

Archie,

Yes...it's often not the best, if you feel impressionable, to read other people's posts if they have symptoms you fear.

Fear is the big obstacle to wellness, I think. My head can get caught up in so many "worst case scenarios."

In a self-soothing way, I remind myself that my brain is not used to seeking happiness and that I will have to make happiness a habit that I practice.
This way I'm not always thinking: What is wrong with you???

I also put my hand over my own heart and say out loud: "All is well. I am safe. I am safe. I am moving in the direction of complete wellness."

best wishes. Thanks for posting your story.

Thankyou MWsunin12 for your reply. It is always so helpful to have insights and suggestions from others . Thankyou