Sometimes, the only thing your pain wants is to be seen.

Sometimes, the only thing your pain wants is to be seen. It can be tempting to try to distract ourselves from uncomfortable feelings. But as counter-intuitive as it may seem, you can actually find relief by stopping everything, allowing yourself to fully feel your emotions, and giving them your full attention.

Imagine that you're upset about something and want to share it with your close friend. What would that conversation feel like if you were out shopping somewhere noisy, versus being face-to-face in a quiet place where you're both fully engaged and present? Your friend doesn’t have to say a word, but having her undivided attention can be enough to make you feel better.

The beautiful thing is that you can give this gift to yourself too. Take some uninterrupted time for a quick meditation, even if it's only for five minutes. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, relax and quiet your mind. Scan your body to see where you feel the pain, and allow your focus to stay there during your meditation time. Breathe into that area and allow yourself to really experience the sensations that are there. How do you feel after you've finished?