I have noticed very significant positive changes while going through this program. The biggest change is a growing sense of calm and safety. By repeatedly reminding myself that my symptoms are related to an overactive and dysregulated nervous system, something has shifted deeply.
Recently I had a full day of team meetings and a team activity afterward. I did not experience any pain at all during the entire day. At one point I suddenly thought, “Oh right, I have pain,” and almost immediately the sensation returned. That moment was shocking and incredibly validating. It made the mind–body connection undeniable to me.
What feels almost unbelievable is that I now have long stretches of time with no pain at all, even though I am only halfway through the program. I still have difficult thoughts and emotions but something fundamental has changed. I feel more capable of handling them. I understand what is happening instead of fearing it.
I’m not entirely sure what caused this shift. It may be increased awareness of my personality traits, being more flexible with myself, or responding differently to stress. Whatever it is, this program has already given me more than I expected.
I’ve done ACT in the past which focused a lot on acceptance. What feels different here is the realization that maybe I don’t have to accept chronic pain as something permanent. That there may be real change possible. That idea feels powerful and hopeful. I’m deeply grateful I found this program, and I’m committed to continuing it.
Recently I had a full day of team meetings and a team activity afterward. I did not experience any pain at all during the entire day. At one point I suddenly thought, “Oh right, I have pain,” and almost immediately the sensation returned. That moment was shocking and incredibly validating. It made the mind–body connection undeniable to me.
What feels almost unbelievable is that I now have long stretches of time with no pain at all, even though I am only halfway through the program. I still have difficult thoughts and emotions but something fundamental has changed. I feel more capable of handling them. I understand what is happening instead of fearing it.
I’m not entirely sure what caused this shift. It may be increased awareness of my personality traits, being more flexible with myself, or responding differently to stress. Whatever it is, this program has already given me more than I expected.
I’ve done ACT in the past which focused a lot on acceptance. What feels different here is the realization that maybe I don’t have to accept chronic pain as something permanent. That there may be real change possible. That idea feels powerful and hopeful. I’m deeply grateful I found this program, and I’m committed to continuing it.
thank you Diana.