Originally Posted by willow
I also agree with Cohen's strategy.
Not long ago - at a pain clinic - I refused offers of morphine based pain relief.
The doctor asked me how I was going to get through the rest of my life in such a high level of constant pain.
I tried to explain that a clear mind was more important to me than pain relief - that has lots of side affects - including
dulling my mind.
I'm not suggesting that pain relief is bad - and at times it is surely essential - but for long-term chronic pain I try to think of the
pain as a 'volume dial' and turn the dial down to 'backgroud noise'. This releases energy to focus my mind on more rewarding goals
- no matter how small - like painting, sewing, planning my garden and enjoying the lovely smiles on my grandchildren's faces.
And of course - zazen!
Gassho
Willow