Pain is a strange and deeply complex part of life. It’s something we all experience, yet no two people experience it in exactly the same way. Whether it’s physical or emotional, acute or chronic, pain has this uncanny ability to tie us together in ways that are both challenging and profoundly human.

But pain is more than discomfort. It’s a messenger—a signal from our body or mind that something needs our attention. Physical pain might ask us to rest or heal. Emotional pain might call us to reflect, release, or reconnect with our values and relationships.

The challenge? Most of us are wired to avoid pain. It’s natural to want to numb it, push through it, or distract ourselves from it. And while there’s nothing wrong with seeking relief, there’s also immense power in slowing down and listening to what our pain is trying to tell us.

Think of Pain as a Guide, Not an Enemy

What if we could approach pain with curiosity instead of judgment?

This shift in perspective can be life-changing. Pain, when acknowledged and explored, can reveal insights we didn’t even know we needed. It can uncover hidden stressors, unmet needs, or even unspoken truths, of things we’ve been avoiding.

We're not talking about glorifying pain or pretending it’s easy to face. We are talking about creating space to hear the story it’s trying to tell.

Using Nature to Help Navigate Pain

One of the most powerful ways I’ve found to work with pain—both in my own life and in the lives of those I coach—is through nature.

Nature has this incredible way of grounding us. When we’re outside, moving our bodies and breathing deeply, we become more attuned to the present moment. The distractions fade, and we start to reconnect with our... inner wisdom.

Have you ever noticed, the rhythmic crunch of gravel underfoot, the sound of leaves rustling in the breeze?   Maybe you tune into the simple act of pausing to breathe in fresh air.. nature provides a safe space to process pain. It reminds us that we’re part of something larger—a cycle of growth, renewal, and transformation.

Here are some Questions to Reflect On

If pain is showing up in your life right now, consider asking yourself these questions:

• What might this pain, (physical or emotional), be trying to tell me?
• How can I support myself with kindness and curiosity, instead of criticism?
• Where can I find space to process and release what I’m carrying?

Moving Forward Together

Pain can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. By sharing our stories, leaning into community, and reconnecting with ourselves and the world around us, we can transform pain into a source of strength and resilience.

At Breakthrough BodyMind, I guide my clients through this process, combining movement, mindfulness, and the healing power of nature. Together, we navigate life’s terrain with clarity and purpose—learning to embrace both the challenges and the beauty of the journey.

If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out. Let’s explore what’s possible when we stop running from pain and start walking alongside it.

With gratitude,

Angelique Eberwein

Breakthrough BodyMind