Day 13 TMS Recovery Program

I really liked the TMS Recovery Program by Alan Gordon. Some things have stuck with me that I repeat to myself often, like, this pain is just a sensation. Or, without the fear and frustration, pain loses much of its meaning. I also consider outcome independence quite a bit, like, I am okay regardless of how my pain is right now. I am striving to be "authentically indifferent," as he says.

The forms of self-abuse were also thought-provoking. Criticism is the obvious one, but less obvious are pressure and fear, which I tend to do. I've been leaning into practicing mindfulness throughout the day and noticing my thoughts, emotions, symptoms, and sensations that my emotions create in my body. This has helped me manage through some anxiety that has come up doing this work.

Lots from this program has stuck with me and is helping me chart a path. It helps to take notes and review them periodically to remind myself what I've learned.