Day 24 Positive changes

Since starting this programme I feel less obsessed with my pain. I haven’t googled my symptoms for more than a week now. I’m focusing less on the physical symptoms and more on my emotions and anxiety levels. One big thing I’ve noticed is that my pain levels are lower when I’m distracted or busy. I’m seeing my pain as less of a barrier now. I’m achieving new records in my running and finding myself able to do things that I couldn’t previously do in my job as a teacher. I also haven’t taken any painkillers since started this programme. I used to take pain medication daily before.

One big thing that I think is stopping me from getting better is my fear of opening up to people. I rarely share how I’m really feeling with people. If I’m upset or angry for any reason I tend to hide these feelings away and just pretend to be happy because I don’t want to bother anybody with my problems. I don’t really know why I do this. I feel like I’ve been doing it my whole life. I’m making an effort to change this but it takes time.

 

I am so happy to hear your progress!!! I do not open up to people either. My whole childhood was based on secrecy and always pretending to be something we weren't. But I find this forum has really opened me up. I have always looked at everybody throughout my day as they are all healthy and pain free and could never understand my issues. But talking to everybody here has made me feel "normal". Not just someone holding in yet another life secret. The truth is is...if we dont open up to people we will never have genuine connections. This is probably a fear of mine.

I began my 5k training yesterday! I am giving myself 8 weeks! I am so happy to hear you are doing well!

 

Yes, you’re right. I’ve been opening up more to people and sharing my true emotions a little bit more lately. It feels scary and unnatural to me, but I’ve noticed that afterwards I feel a sense of calm and like some of the tension has left my body. It’s like I’m not holding everything in anymore.

Thats great to hear - a 5k is a great goal!