Mags Clark-Smith: The Mind-Body Connection in Chronic Pain Relief
Episode Overview
Mags Clark-Smith's journey from a university lecturer to a pain relief movement specialist Insights into the mind-body connection and the role of the autonomic nervous system in chronic pain Discussion on exploring beliefs, triggers, and the importance of feeling safe in the healing process Mags' research on pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy and upcoming textbook on psychophysiologic disorders Emphasis on empowering patients and developing skills for long-term pain resolution
So calming the nervous system down is about ensuring that you're giving the opportunity for the relaxation response to come on. If you breathe in for two and feel you're holding your breath, that is a signal that the relaxation response is not having the opportunity to turn on.
Have you ever felt like your pain is all in your head? Dr. Maya Novak invites Mags Clark-Smith, a pain relief movement specialist, to challenge that notion and shed light on the complexities of chronic and unexplained pain. Mags' journey from university lecturer to a specialist in non-verbal communication and movement therapy is nothing short of fascinating. In this episode, she shares remarkable stories, including how one patient avoided hip replacement surgery through her innovative approach to pain relief.
Mags dives into the often overlooked relationship between our mind and pain, explaining how the autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in chronic pain. She emphasizes the importance of understanding our beliefs and triggers to manage pain effectively. Feeling safe is key, and Mags offers practical tips on calming the nervous system, such as deep breathing exercises and finding joy in everyday activities.
Listeners will also get a sneak peek into Mags' research on pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy and her upcoming textbook on psychophysiologic disorders. Her teaching approach focuses on empowering patients to develop long-term healing skills, making this episode a treasure trove of insights for anyone dealing with chronic pain. Tune in for a conversation that promises to inspire and inform, offering new perspectives on managing pain through the mind-body connection.