Psychosomatic pain is physical pain that is caused or exacerbated by psychological or emotional factors such as stress, anxiety or depression. The symptoms are very real yet seemingly have no clearly defined root cause. Many times, when one seeks medical care, the only option for a provider is to assign a vague or catch-all diagnosis often found in medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other hard-to-define concerns. 

While the pain reported can vary, below is a list of commonly reported symptoms:

• Nausea
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Muscle pain 
• Headaches/migraines 
• Increased heart rate 
• Chest pain 
• Fatigue
• Tremors
• Gastrointestinal problems 

Many of the indicators can be traced to specific diseases; however, they are all also closely related to the management of emotions—in particular, anxiety and stress—thus making psychosomatic pain difficult to manage.

The first time I received a diagnosis of psychosomatic pain, I thought the doctor was implying that what I was experiencing was all in my head. Fortunately, he was aware of how the medical profession has come off in this context and quickly followed up with, “But, that doesn’t mean what you are feeling is not real.” Although there was validation, the conversation ended there, and I was not offered any additional assistance or resources. 

As time marched on, the psychosomatic pain grew in intensity. It got to where I spent most of the day in bed, only attempting to get up to care for my children or earn money. It was physically grueling, mentally and emotionally draining and caused me to make a drastic change in lifestyle.  This was one of the darkest times of my life; however, it is with a gracious heart I can see the blessings that emerged from the sorrow. The most significant outcome was how my trials brought me to my path of natural healing. Eventually, I found Reiki’s energy healing properties. By implementing a holistic approach to wellness, I’ve been able to reduce my psychosomatic pain. 

Psychosomatic pain is born from mismanaged emotions such as grief, stress and anxiety. The energy from these emotions becomes trapped within our bodies, settling in the tissues, muscles, organs, etc. The end result: real and intense pain that requires healing.

There are many fruitful tools that can assist in the release of stuck and mismanaged emotions. The most effective method of healing psychosomatic pain comes from within. A great first step may include putting forth a conscious and consistent effort to sit with one’s self. This meditative act can tease out the emotions and events that are wreaking havoc.  

Other constructive tools may involve:

• Reiki energy healing
• Chakra energy balancing
• Personal energy clearing
• Home/space energy clearing
• Yoga
• Meditation
• Therapy
• Journaling
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Chakra balancing
• Hypnosis
• Healing stones

The exact cause for the evolution of psychosomatic pain is largely unknown, but there is promising research to support Reiki energy healing as an effective method of pain management. The results of a study from a large-scale, multi-site effectiveness trial suggest that a single session of Reiki improves multiple variables related to physical and psychological health (Dyer, et al. 2019).  

It’s important to understand that to experience a lasting relief of psychosomatic pain, a comprehensive approach to healing must be taken. Treating physical pain involves treating mental and emotional pain concurrently. 

At Awaken Gratitude, we practice and encourage a spiritual approach to wellness. As humans, we long to deeply connect with others; we also seek inner peace. Serenity is found within the harmonies of the body, mind and spirit. As your practitioner, I strive to provide education and support so you may effectively harness the skills and tools needed to continue your healing journey outside of our sessions. 

We utilize Reiki, an energy healing technique, to serve as the foundation of Awaken Gratitude ‘s holistic methodology. Our sessions can be performed in-person at close proximity or at a distance; either is effective at clearing and rejuvenating your energy pathways. In addition to Reiki therapy, we provide a range of sacred self-care services such as chakra balancing, energy clearing and home blessings. 

We are excited to now offer The Chakra Collection, a unique way to align, balance, cleanse and revitalize your energy by targeting the seven primary chakras. The Chakra Collection consists of seven all-natural essential oil blends which can be applied to the corresponding chakra points or diffused into the air. Kim with Awaken Gratitude personally blends and charges each set with Reiki, intention, gratitude and love.  

Where focus goes…energy flows. Awaken Gratitude.

APA Citation 

Dyer, N. L., et al. (2019, December). A Large-Scale Effectiveness Trial of Reiki for Physical and Psychological Health. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 25(12), 1169-1178. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2019.0179

Awaken Gratitude
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