Navigating Perfectionism and Chronic Pain/Symptoms: Transforming Coping Mechanisms

Ever wondered if perfectionism could be causing your chronic pain or symptoms? Join us on the MindBodyCouple podcast, where we unravel the fascinating link between these two issues, drawing from our recent experiences at the Psychophysiologic Disorders Association conference in Colorado. Our insights are breaking new ground by challenging the notion that perfectionism is an immutable part of your personality. Instead, we offer a new perspective: perfectionism is a trait that can be transformed to reduce the stress, guilt, and shame that may accompany it. Our listeners have shared powerful stories on how embracing these ideas has brought them solace and healing, and we are excited to bring these transformative insights to you.

This episode takes you on a personal journey through the origins of perfectionism as a coping mechanism from childhood, especially in high-demand environments. We explore how societal pressures perpetuate a relentless cycle of anxiety and self-criticism, and share firsthand accounts of navigating the fears of losing acceptance and success. Through this process, we highlight the profound benefits of embracing imperfections and practicing self-compassion. With practical examples, like simplifying tasks and valuing downtime, we provide actionable steps to help you ease perfectionist tendencies. Our YouTube channel and courses offer additional resources for this transformative journey, empowering you to accept vulnerabilities for greater peace and productivity.

Tanner Murtagh and Anne Hampson are therapists who treat neuroplastic pain and mind-body symptoms. They are also married! In his 20s, Tanner overcame chronic pain and a fibromyalgia diagnosis by learning his symptoms were occurring due to learned brain pathways and nervous system dysregulation. Post-healing, Tanner and Anne have dedicated their lives to developing effective treatment and education for neuroplastic pain and symptoms. Listen and learn how to assess your own chronic pain and symptoms, gain tools to retrain the brain and nervous system, and make gradual changes in your life and health!

The Mind-Body Couple podcast is owned by Pain Psychotherapy Canada Inc. This podcast is produced by Alex Klassen, who is one of the wonderful therapists at our agency in Calgary, Alberta. https://www.painpsychotherapy.ca/

Tanner, Anne, and Alex also run the MBody Community, which is an in-depth online course that provides step-by-step guidance for assessing, treating, and resolving mind-body pain and symptoms. https://www.mbodycommunity.com

Also check out Tanner's YouTube channel for more free education and practices: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Fl6WaFHnh4ponuexaMbFQ

And follow us for daily education posts on Instagram: @painpsychotherapy

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