Dynamic Healing with David Hanscom MD and Les Aria PhD

Joy is at the core of living a good and rewarding life. In order to achieve this state you must learn to be vulnerable, which we inherently don’t tolerate well. A major defense against feeling vulnerable (anxious) is mental rigidity. You cannot feel and maintain joy unless you feel safe. Join David Hanscom, MD and Les Aria, Ph.D as they explore ways to increase the joy in your life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why We Pursue a stronger ego to address these three issues.  Survival Reactions and Emotional Triggers Our survival responses trigger unpleasant emotions like anxiety and anger to indicate potential threats. In nature, once a danger passes, animals can relax and recover. However, humans often continue to ruminate, keeping the body in a state of tension. This can blur the line between our survival instincts and our identity, leading us to believe that these reactions define us. Lifetime Programming Societal expectations, often through guilt, intimidation, and shame, condition us from childhood. We’re rewarded for behavior that others deem “good” and criticized for behavior they view as “bad.” This conditioning contributes to an ongoing pursuit of self-esteem, shaping our identity and ego. When we fail to meet these standards, it can trigger feelings of inadequacy. Our Competitive Nature Humans are wired to compete for resources, achievements, and social standing. This drive can lead us to build an ego that appears strong and invulnerable. Unfortunately, maintaining this persona can isolate us from genuine connection, as meaningful relationships require vulnerability. Without resources or opportunities to compete, some people may “drop out,” developing an identity shaped by negative self-perceptions. When we defend our ego, we exacerbate obsessive thought patterns, which are activated and reinforced as RUTS (Repetitive Unpleasant Thoughts). Conscious efforts to overcome these patterns are often unsustainable because our intentions do not match the powerful, ingrained distortions that create many of our thoughts.  The key to "dissolving" these rigid patterns lies in specific principles. First, separation through awareness allows us to step back and observe these patterns without identifying with them. It’s important to recognize that these thoughts and distortions are not who you are; rather, they create a disconnection from your true self and from others. By identifying and acknowledging cognitive distortions, you begin to loosen their grip.  Ultimately, the process of awareness itself is transformative—it brings clarity, disconnects you from harmful patterns, and opens the door to healthier, more authentic ways of thinking and being. Les Aria, PhD – Mendahealth.com David Hanscom, MD – Backincontrol.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Les Aria and Dr. David Hanscom explore the intertwined nature of physical and emotional pain, emphasizing their shared neurological pathways, distinct characteristics, and the need for holistic approaches to address both types effectively. Les Aria, PhD – pain psychologist and founding member Menda - www.menda.health. David Hanscom, MD – orthopedic spine surgeon and author – www.backinconrol.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are many concepts about the meaning of the word, “love.” However, Anthony DeMello, in his book, The Way to Love, condenses it down to one word, “awareness.” Awareness is “being fully present in the moment you are in.” Anytime you are anxious or angry, you are connected to the past and have lost awareness. However, since we are programmed to survive, mentally and physically, we are always on the lookout for danger. These reactions are not controllable, and it requires tools to process them and then being in the present can emerge. Awareness is at the core of successful human relationships, yet close relationships are the most powerful triggers. Instead of being an opportunity to heal, they often are an additional source of stress (pain). Today, we are just focusing on the word, “awareness” as the word for love. How can you positively interact with someone or solve problems without being aware of who they are and how the world may look through their eyes? How can you listen if you are already projecting your opinion onto them? Anthony DeMello suggests that awareness may be all you need to heal. He is probably correct. These concepts are particularly relevant to close relationships in context of being in chronic mental/ physical pain. Get the book The Way to Love by Anthony DeMello Find out more about David Hanscom MD Les Aria, PhD Pain Psychologist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) is a term that has many connotations, and most people feel the term does not apply to them. In fact, many if not most people experience unpleasant and disruptive thoughts that detract from their quality of life. They are a manifestation of chronic anxiety, which is a physiological state of threat. It does not respond to rational interventions, as it all arises from the subconscious brain. There are many manifestations of OCD, with there being both external behaviors and internal “mental battles.” One reason people don’t feel the diagnosis doesn’t apply to them is because they are not aware of “internal OCD.” There are no outward manifestations and there are repetitive disruptive thoughts and counter-thoughts.   “OCD is like having a bully stuck inside of your head and nobody else can see.” Krissy McDermott   This episode will discuss the traditional diagnosis and clinical presentation and then point out that a better term might be, “obsessive thought patterns” that are disruptive. David Hanscom did experience severe “internal OCD” for over 15 years and managed to solve it. We will discuss the nature of the solutions in future podcasts. Obsessive thought patterns are a big problem for a given person and it may be a societal epidemic.  Find out more about David Hanscom, MD here Les Aria, PhD. Pain Psychologist Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our thoughts and actions are processed by the nervous system, which sends out instructions to every cell in the body how to respond. If the input is unpleasant or overstimulating, your body will sense danger and produce a stress response. You will feel anxious, agitated, and your pain will increase. What you CHOOSE to load into your nervous system translates into a physiological response of safety or threat.  Your brain will develop wherever you place your attention. It is the reason why we make the following suggestions as foundational to healing. Never discuss your pain with anyone, especially your close family – ever! The only exception is when you are checking in with your health care providers Don’t discuss your medical care Avoid complaining – about anything. If you have a problem, deal with the situation directly. Don’t give unasked-for advice or be critical. This is particularly true regarding your partner and children.  Malicious gossip will fire up your nervous system. Limit your time watching the news. Allow yourself a limited amount time per day. It is important to know what is going on, but there is no benefit to remaining agitated about situations you have no control over.   One of the cornerstones of healing is becoming aware of the nature of your input, understanding the effects on your mental and physical health, and being proactive in your choices.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You have more say over your quality of life than you might think. The choices you make stimulate neuroplastic changes in your brain that become embedded with repetition. Humans’ brains develop by interacting with other humans. This is a much different programming process than the development of other mammals’ brains. Every move and decision you make today is determined by the sum total of your past experiences. Most of our programming is unconscious and not our choice. So, we are at the mercy of our past.   To change it, you must first become aware of your past programming and how it is playing out. Then you have to ask the question, “What do you actually want your life to look like?” Do you want to remain in old familiar patterns or create new ones? Today the topic is to understand the necessity of awareness in order to make choices. How are you appearing to the world and yourself in difficult moments?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psychologically flexibility is the opposite of what most of us possess. There is a human tendency to reinforce our views of the world and affirm them. It requires a lot of ongoing energy. ACT teaches you how to become more open to new ideas and creativity. This episode focuses on choose,” which is the final phase of this three-step process. ·       Catch – noticing a shift in sensation or mood ·       Check – identify it and create some “space” ·       Choose – you then have a choice of a more appropriate response instead of an automatic survival one.   Your incredibly adaptable brain will develop wherever you choose to place your attention. It’s not hard to make decisions once you know what your values are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Purpose: In order to stimulate your brain to change (neuroplasticity) you must first know exactly where you are at. The first step is to “catch” and notice that there is a change. Then the second step is, “check” where you recognize what the change is (creating some “space”), and then choose where you want to go. Today we will be discussing the “check” phase of reprogramming your brain. Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom. Viktor Frankl There are two parts of healing that are equally important. It is a dynamic process. ·        Learning tools to effectively process stress will allow you to break free from your powerful automatic survival reactions. ·        Once you have let go, then the healing occurs from stimulating circuits to form in your brain that are enjoyable. This is the essence of neuroplasticity, and it happens quickly in whatever direction you choose. “Check” the step where you create some “space” between your stress and reaction and then you are able to substitute a better response. You have to know where you are starting before you can change direction. What is “check?” ·        Conceptualize it How to accomplish it?   Why is it so important? ·        Reactive vs creative ·        Need to get back into the neocortex   Practical tools ·        Expressive writing ·        Mindfulness ·        Welcome in the unwelcome ·        Principles behind other tools   Chronic pain is a neurological problem and is solvable by using proven methods to change the structure of your brain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is a mindfulness-based behavioral intervention that helps us live in the present moment using values to move towards what matters the most to you in life. You are moving away from pain. It provides practical ways to unhook from the storylines of your mind. The approach reduces your suffering from emotional and physical pain. Changing your relationship to adversity allows you to minimize your suffering. It is a learned skill that represented by “3 C’s” that will teach you to be psychologically flexible. Catch – Awareness - what’s showing up in your fishbowl (mind)?  Check - How hooked/hijacked is your nervous system? Where is your “willingness” dial? Which is higher? Your willingness dial or your resistance one?  Choose - How you wish to show up or be towards yourself, others, or your situation during difficult moments/experiences? What do you stand for? What is one small action or step I can take to align with my values. But you cannot choose until you create some “space” with the first two steps. We will be discussing the first “C” in this episode. You will learn to sense when you are not connected to the present moment and recognize your instinctive reaction to push unpleasant emotions away. “Catch” is the opposite action where you allow them into your consciousness and where you can process them.  2nd Annual Pain Summit Please join us for our 2nd Annual Pain Summit on February 26th and 27th where some of the original founders of this approach will be discussing these concepts. Here is the link to the event. David and Les would love to hear from you about today's podcast and ideas for future topics. You can email them at: david-les@dynamichealingpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) can provide you with practical ways to unhook from the storylines of your mind. The approach reduces your suffering from emotional and physical pain. ACT is a mindfulness-based behavioral intervention helping us live in the present moment using values to move towards what matters the most to you in life. You are moving away from pain. ACT understands that pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. If you fight pain, your suffering worsens. Changing your relationship to adversity allows you to minimize your suffering. It is a learned skill that represented by “3 C’s” that will teach you to be psychologically flexible. 2nd Annual Pain Summit Please join us for our 2nd Annual Pain Summit on February 26th and 27th where some of the original founders of this approach will be discussing these concepts. Here is the link to the event. David and Les would love to hear from you about today's podcast and ideas for future topics. You can email them at: david-les@dynamichealingpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emotional and physical pain share neurological circuits in the brain and chronic activation of them is unpleasant. Since we don’t want to feel pain, we suppress it, which fires up the nervous system and your flight or fight response. Over time, we become more and more determined (and rigid) to not feel pain and it is a losing battle.  A key to solving chronic pain is learning to quit fighting it, be with it, and let it dissipate. However, it does require learning approaches to allow you to tolerate feeling uncomfortable, as emotional pain can be intolerable.  ACT is a way of a learning to be with uncomfortable feelings and developing psychological flexibility. It is the foundation of Dr. Aria’s practice. He discusses the basis of it and how to bring these concepts into your daily life. He presents “The 3 C’s” – Catch, Check, and Choose. You can begin to use these tools today. David and Les would love to hear from you about today's podcast and ideas for future topics. You can email them at: david-les@dynamichealingpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remorse is a factor in keeping you moving forward into the life you want. It is the flip side of FOMO (fear of missing out), both of which are embedded thought patterns and don’t respond well to rational interventions. It is also unique to human consciousness.  The Problem Remorse is a common almost universal trait.  It is a problem in that the time and energy spent on missed opportunities keeps your nervous system and body fired up, drains you of your vital energies, and greatly compromises your quality of the life you have.   Solutions Be aware of the fact that embedded thought patterns are not “solvable.” By fighting or fixing them, you’ll reinforce them. You have to stimulate your brain to change (neuroplasticity). Neuroplasticity  Awareness –  understand the nature of obsessive thought patterns – inner critics Role of anger keeping these circuits fired up Separation –  expressive writing  breath work  welcome in the unwelcome Reprogramming – enjoying the life you have is a learned skill Deep gratitude Mindfulness, active meditation What do you want today? “Live life like you are 20”   To have a good life, you have to live a good life.  David and Les would love to hear from you about today's podcast and ideas for future topics. You can email them at: david-les@dynamichealingpodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Because change is challenging for majority of us, New Year's resolutions often fail to realize change takes time. Like growing something you planted, a fruit tree will take years to mature and consistently bear fruit. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers solutions to guide us through the process of change, that is, our New Year’s resolutions. A core aspect of ACT is becoming aware of and defining your values and then engaging in behaviors that create neuroplastic changes in your brain. It entails being “psychologically flexible” as opposed to being rigid and self-critical. You choose to behave in a manner consistent with your values understanding that you will “fail” every day. But the values will remain, and you can keep moving in that direction.   By determining or redefining who or what is important to you a.k.a. values… We apply an intrinsic ability to motivate ourselves versus doing things because we have to wear a “shirt” that is outside of us. Consider a fishing rod with a dangling carrot. What you move towards is where true healing occurs. You have to live a good life in order to have a good life.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is a common pattern of thinking in modern times. Why in the face of so much prosperity is it so prevalent? Understanding that is a manifestation of your unconscious self-critical voice and this it is irrational is the first stepping in successfully dealing with it.  This session will discuss: ·      The neurological nature of the problem – it is an embedded thinking pattern. ·      How they emanate from the unconscious brain and not responsive to rational interventions. ·      That it is an endless driver of envy and creating a need for self-esteem to combat it. ·      They are one of the self-critical voices that are trying to protect you. ·      Some principles of effective approach: o  Education o  Gratitude is a nurtured trait – not positive thinking § Can’t outrun your mind – no end point ·      Some examples § Drop the battle o  Expressive writing o  Welcome in the unwelcome o  Connect to the moment you are in. Summary: Live the life you have with connection and purpose instead of constantly pursuing the life you think you need to be happier. Get happy first then the life you want will emerge. It is a learned and cultivated skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emotional pain and physical pain have overlapping circuits in the brain. They play off each other. People in pain are more sensitive to social rejection and social rejection makes the pain worse. Loneliness has profound effects on your mental and physical health. This situation is magnified during the Holiday Season. By understanding the nature of the problem, there are potential solutions that will not only help you through the Holidays but will move you forward on your healing journey. The starting point is being nice to yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What truly brings you joy and how can you fully experience it? These tips can enhance your capacity to connect to other people close to you. In this episode, we’ll be discussing the last three tips to help you thrive during the Holidays. ·      Being in the Present Moment is Key to Being Peaceful o  47% of the time our mind wanders, and we get caught-up in the mind’s story lines. o  Metaphor: Being in the middle of the tornado helps us watch and respond versus get caught-up and destroy peace in us and between others/situations. ·      Setting Boundaries o  Definition: What is okay and what is not okay o  Be clear with your Yes or No’s (say what you mean and mean what you say) ·      Pacing o   “Boom & Bust Syndrome” o  Intentionally pacing your breathing during difficult moments. It is also a tool to use all year.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is ironic that we treasure having major holidays with the spirit of love and giving, yet there are many ways that they can be incredibly draining. Much of the “Holiday Spirit” is created by the marketing world and is not a lot of people’s reality. In this episode, we’ll be discussing the need to be realistic and also communicate. You can capture the Holiday Spirit. Here are 7 Tips from Dr. David Hanscom and Dr. Les Aria for not just Surviving the Holidays but Enjoying the Holidays.    1. Values  2. Morning Routine 3. Be Realistic  4. Communicate - practice listening with your value(s) 5. Be present in conversations (use diffusion - separating from thoughts) 6. Clear Boundaries in communication and foods 7. Pace Yourself - in thoughts, gifts, actions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learning psychological skills is key to surviving, not just using your breathwork or meditation, or exercise –but using tools that provide effective outcomes to help you be your best and safest this holiday season. Dr. David Hanscom and Dr. Les Aria provide tips on todays episode that will help you become more psychologically flexible, which leads to safety versus threat, which is psychological inflexibility. Learning to connect with your thoughts/emotions with physical sensations is key. Being psychologically flexible means: waking up, loosening up and stepping up. Being around family members and certain people can easily activate our old storylines and memories. When your mind hooks you, what do you do? How does it cost you?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Humans evolved to our current state at the top of the food chain through cooperation. It is one of the main reasons that social connection is so critical. The deeper the connection, the better; except family triggers are the most powerful and destructive. This problem is accentuated during the Holidays where hope and expectations for connection are high, and it is even more painful when these potentially wonderful gatherings blow up. Being aware of the strength and nature of these primitive triggers, increases your chances of navigating them and having a wonderful Holiday Season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices