5 Key Reasons Why Dr Sano's Reminders Are So Important.
Following on from my last post, I thought I’d quickly address the true importance of Dr John Sarno’s 12 daily reminders.
Dr. John Sarno's 12 Daily Reminders are of huge important because they serve as a central component of his approach to treating tension myoneural syndrome (TMS), which he knew to be the root cause of much chronic pain, especially back pain, muscle pain, tendon and joint pain. These reminders help reframe a person's understanding of their pain, shifting focus from purely physical causes to the psychological and emotional factors underlying it.
Dr Sarno’s 12 daily reminders help us stay light in both mind and body by affirming the fact that movement is safe and beneficial and that we are not broken. They help relieve fears surrounding our symptoms, and instal within us a sense of confidence and indifference that helps empower us with much greater effect.
Starting with the most obvious, here are a few key reasons why you should keep Sarno’s 12 Daily Reminders firmly in mind.
1. Mind-Body Connection: Sarno's approach emphasizes that chronic pain is most often caused by repressed emotions like anxiety, anger, fear, or stress. The reminders help reinforce that the pain is not due to structural damage but emotional tension.
2. Empowerment: By regularly reflecting on the reminders, individuals can take control of their recovery. They serve as a way to remind the person that their pain is not the result of an injury, but a manifestation of unconscious emotions.
3. Reduction of Fear and Anxiety: This is maybe one of the most important reasons as many people with chronic pain become anxious about their condition, fearing movement or worsening the pain (this was certainly the case for me) The reminders help reduce this fear by clarifying that physical activity is not harmful and is, in fact, beneficial. It encourages all of us to get moving and stop dwelling on the fear that the body is broken or damaged.
4. Encouraging Emotional Awareness: By shifting the focus from the physical symptoms to the emotional roots of the pain, the reminders encourage individuals to explore their inner emotional landscape. This can lead to the release of repressed emotions and alleviation of the pain.
5. Breaking the Pain Cycle: Chronic pain can create a vicious cycle of pain, fear, and avoidance. The reminders help break this cycle by constantly reinforcing the idea that the pain is benign, allowing individuals to live more freely and without fear of worsening their condition.
Ultimately, Dr. Sarno's reminders are a daily mental exercise that helps retrain the brain and nervous system to stop creating pain as a distraction from emotional issues. They emphasize the idea that understanding the psychological roots of the pain is key to healing.
Take care, and until next time,
Keep it calm :)
Duncan.