Pain often causes us to disconnect from our body, which can also be called kinesthetic dissociation. Even when the pain subsides, as it often happens, we could get stuck in that dissociative state. This pattern can help in re-establishing a physical presence in the body.

Step 1: Focus on one area of your body that isn’t experiencing any discomfort. #

Even if you’ve been in constant pain for a long time, there is always a part of your body that is relatively free of discomfort. Although this area of your body may be tucked away, like the inside of your forearm or the palm of your hand, it is still important to pay attention to this area of your body.

Step 2: Anchor this spot, as you feel the absence of pain,… #

Step 3: Take a moment to focus on a part of your body that is or has been hurting you. #

Take it at your own pace, and if it becomes too uncomfortable, find a less painful area where you can stay more comfortably.

Step 4: Take a few deep breaths into this area and start to let go of any tension or pain as you exhale and trigger the first anchor. #

You may feel stinging, burning, warmth or hot, stiffness, hardness, piercing, or aching, among other feelings.

Step 5: Pay attention to how your feelings change in response to your consciousness and breathing. #

Step 6: Breathe in and out, sensing what you perceive in the place in your body that is devoid of discomfort. #

Then release it as you trigger the anchor again.

Step 7: Repeat steps 3 to 6 as many times as necessary. #

Breathe in and out, shifting between the parts of your body that are more painful and those that are more pleasurable. When you reach each one, take a moment to pause and let your breath reacquaint itself with the space.

Step 8: Test. #

What have you discovered about this part of your body that you weren’t aware of before?