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Body Scan for Pain

Category: Physical Health & Performance
Tags: Pain, MBSR
  • Definition
  • The Science
  • The Practice
  • Common Pitfalls

Overview

We brace against pain. This resistance amplifies suffering. The Body Scan turns toward it.

Definition

Distinguishing between primary suffering (sensation) and secondary suffering (reaction).

The Science

Sensory Gating

Mindfulness decouples sensation from emotional alarm in the anterior cingulate cortex.

The Practice

How to Practice

  1. Isolate area.
  2. Investigate objectively.
  3. Soften surrounding muscles.
  4. Acceptance.

Common Pitfalls

  • Trying to 'heal'.
  • Drifting.

Key Takeaway

Suffering = Pain x Resistance.

The Modern Mindfulness Atlas

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