Exclamation Points
Dear Patient,
Pain is the body’s way of getting your attention. You touch a hot stove, and the pain directs you to pull your hand away. Your brain doesn’t politely ask your muscles to remove your hand; it screams at you. Pain is the body’s exclamation point.
Often we see pain as an enemy to be vanquished, but we can also think of pain as our body trying to help us and avoid further harm. The example of touching a hot stove is an obvious one, but what about other types of pain? Arthritic joints tell us to slow down and prevent further joint damage. The misery of a hangover reminds us not to drink so much next time. Chest pains could save our life. Emotional pain prompts us to deal with old wounds, encourages empathy, and reminds us that we are human.
Your body says, “Stop!” “Take heed!” “Be resolute!”
You wouldn’t stop and ponder whether or not you should pull your hand away from a hot stove. Pain is an entreaty from your body. Act boldly!
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
When my niece was 3 years old, she did baby yoga at her daycare. One day she called me and I asked her what she's been learning. She responded with, "Aunt Bee, listen to your body!" I will always remember that and will now pair it with "Act boldly!"