20 things that might bring you natural pain relief

By: Loolwa Khazzoom, Founder, Dancing with Pain

May 21st, 2010 • Mind-Body Medicine • Print

The path to wellness is individual and highly personalized. What works for one person might not work for another — both in terms of method and practitioner. Here are 20 things that might bring you natural pain relief. Take the time to get well-educated about whatever catches your eye, and if seems like a good match, check it out and see if it works for you.

For methods that involve practitioners, always take the time to interview practitioners ahead of time, even if doing so is a pain in the ass and delays your ability to begin. Ideally you want to work with someone who has a lot of experience with clients who have chronic pain and hypersensitivity. Regardless, be clear about your needs for extra care, and stay discerning as you move ahead with anyone.

Even someone who seems fantastic in an interview may not make the cut when dealing with your particular needs. Bring your bullshit detector along to every session. You deserve the utmost care, sensitivity, and responsiveness. Don’t stop looking until you find it!

No matter what you do and with whom you do it, remember to listen to your body, and stay out of your pain zones. Move slowly and gently, and if your pain jacks up, back off. Err on the side of caution. You can always add intensity, but you can’t take it away once you’ve crossed the line and gone too far.