The Mind-Body Couple

How do you know when your chronic pain/symptoms are neuroplastic rather than structural? This question plagues countless people, who often find themselves caught between conflicting medical opinions, inconclusive test results, and treatments that provide only temporary relief.In this enlightening first installment of a two-part series, Tanner Murtaugh and Anne Hampson break down the concrete criteria that help identify neuroplastic pain and symptoms. They share that neuroplastic pain/symptoms occur when your brain and nervous system remain stuck in a state of danger despite no structural damage in your body - and importantly, you don't need to meet all criteria to benefit from a neuroplastic approach.The hosts walk through the first category of evidence: when pain doesn't make physical sense. From symptoms that originate during stressful times to pain that worsens with difficult emotions, from inconsistent symptom patterns to pain that spreads and migrates through the body - these are all powerful clues pointing toward neuroplastic mechanisms. They explain why triggers disconnected from the body (like weather or certain environments), delayed onset pain, and symptoms without injury are particularly telling.Tanner and Anne weave personal experiences throughout, sharing how Tanner's own pain coincided with major life transitions, and how they've observed these patterns across hundreds of clients. They offer reassurance that while identifying neuroplastic components can feel overwhelming, approaching the assessment with curiosity rather than fear is key.This episode provides invaluable guidance if you've tried numerous treatments without lasting improvement or received diagnoses that don't fully explain your symptoms. Listen now to gain clarity and hope as you begin unraveling whether your persistent pain/symptoms might be treatable through neuroplastic approaches.Ready to explore how your brain might be generating your symptoms? Tune in next week when they tackle the second category: sensitization factors that make your nervous system more susceptible to neuroplastic pain.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 Discl...

The powerful connection between OCD patterns and chronic pain might be the missing puzzle piece in your healing journey. Tanner and Anne dive deep into how obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors fuel neuroplastic symptoms, creating a cycle that keeps pain and symptoms alive.You'll discover why that constant symptom checking, endless research, and anxious monitoring actually reinforce your brain's pain circuits rather than solving the problem. With vulnerability and humor, the hosts share their own experiences with OCD tendencies—from Tanner's shoulder-testing ritual to Anne's encounters with health anxiety—and how these patterns operated both before and during their pain experiences.The solution? Cultivating indifference. But don't roll your eyes just yet! This counterintuitive approach isn't about ignoring your pain or pretending it doesn't exist. Instead, it's about starving pain of the attention that keeps it thriving. The hosts offer practical, actionable strategies for breaking free from obsessive patterns: naming your symptoms with silly names, recognizing when your brain is trying to help (but making things worse), and—perhaps most importantly—giving your brain something valuable to focus on besides your symptoms.Whether you've been diagnosed with OCD or simply recognize some of these patterns in your relationship with chronic pain, this episode provides a compassionate roadmap for change. Progress isn't linear, and even small shifts toward indifference represent significant healing. Ready to loosen pain's grip on your attention and reclaim your life? This conversation shows you how.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 Discl...

In today’s illuminating episode, we dive into the transformative concept of self-parenting—an essential practice that feeds our emotional needs while promoting healing from chronic pain and symptoms. With an engaging blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, we unravel why many struggle with self-compassion and what it looks like to be your own nurturing parent. Through our candid discussion, we explore how our childhood experiences shape our present-day responses to stress and emotions, often leading us to neglect our needs. This episode highlights the importance of being attuned to your body’s signals, exploring how self-awareness can drastically improve emotional regulation and ease chronic pain symptoms. We share practical advice on embracing a compassionate inner dialogue, allowing for moments of rest, and challenging the intense pressures of everyday life. Join us as we discuss the art of parenting ourselves, redefining what it means to give love and care to the inner child within. By reflecting on our past and actively nurturing our present selves, we can open doors to healing. Listen and discover the profound impacts of self-parenting—it’s more than just a concept; it’s a pathway to well-being. Don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review!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 Discl...

Parenting and chronic pain/illness—two life challenges that seem impossible to juggle, right? Join us, Tanner Murtaugh and Anne Hampson, as we unravel the intertwined complexities of nurturing our children while healing from neuroplastic pain and symptoms. Reflect on Tanner's journey from pre-parenthood healing to the new stressors and joys children bring into the mix. For those without kids, we encourage you to consider your own unique stressors and their impact on your healing process. Through our personal stories, you’ll gain insights into managing these challenges, whether you're still on the path to recovery or have already found your way back to health.Maintaining your well-being doesn't stop at recovery—it requires ongoing effort, especially when parenting. We share practical strategies to sustain your healing, emphasizing the importance of creating a buffer against life's endless demands. From emotional processing to regulating your nervous system, we highlight how prioritizing self-care and social connections can help you keep a balanced life amidst the chaos of work, family, and societal pressures. Rediscover your personal interests and reclaim your identity with activities like yoga, qigong, or even equine therapy, all while navigating the expectations placed on you as a parent. Let's redefine self-care and make it a priority, not a luxury.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 Discl...

Imagine navigating the complexities of a challenging week marked by your child's illness and a sudden power outage. That's precisely what we faced recently, and it highlighted how stress can make life seem all the more serious. Join us as we unpack personal experiences and the often unspoken issue of medical trauma—a significant form of trauma that's largely overlooked in the healthcare system. We shine a light on its profound impact on individuals and families, including our own journey, emphasizing how trauma is not merely the event but the lingering nervous system response that can exacerbate chronic pain and illness.This episode takes you through the emotional and physical rollercoaster experienced before, during, and after medical procedures. We delve into common reactions like fight, flight, and freeze, and how these can manifest as anxiety or dissociation, particularly for those battling chronic pain. We explore the cycle of anxiety and heightened responses that can make even routine medical appointments daunting. Discover the critical role of psychological preparation in preventing or reducing medical trauma and why recognizing symptoms is crucial for effective healing. Tune in to better understand the complex web between trauma and delayed recovery and how to navigate it for a healthier future.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 Discl...

After battling a relentless bout of stomach flu that turned our household upside down, we uncovered profound insights into the mind-body connection that we're excited to share with you. Picture this: each family member succumbs to illness, fear creeps in, and suddenly, we're revisiting our mind-body techniques to navigate the chaos. In this episode of the MindBodyCouple podcast, we unravel how fear not only hijacked our minds but also manifested physical symptoms, offering a firsthand look at the phenomenon of neuroplastic nausea. We tackle the challenging terrain of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, particularly in the context of health anxieties, and introduce the liberating concept of radical acceptance. Our discussion highlights the often overlooked cycle of fear and compulsiveness that exacerbates distress and how self-compassion can be a guiding light. As we share our personal stories, we encourage you to embrace your circumstances without resistance. To our cherished listeners, thank you for joining us on this journey. Stay connected with our community for more resources and support on your healing path.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 Discl...

What if processing shame could be the key to unlocking your healing journey from chronic pain and illness? Join us as we promise to unravel this complex emotion and its significant role in recovery. Our latest episode features an exploration of how guilt, the feeling of having done wrong, differs from shame, which attacks our very sense of self. By shining a light on these often-confused emotions and highlighting their universal nature, we aim to guide you in processing them effectively within your healing window.Discover the profound connection between chronic pain and deeply internalized shame, and learn how behaviors such as perfectionism and people-pleasing can be rooted in the fear of inadequacy. We navigate through the ways shame impacts the nervous system, often leading to numbness and disconnection. Through practical techniques and somatic practices, we offer strategies to retrain your brain and develop a compassionate relationship with your emotions. Recognize and name your shame, and embrace self-compassion to help break the cycle of pain and illness. This episode is an invitation to transform your relationship with yourself through cognitive understanding and mindful practices.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 Discl...

What if the key to alleviating chronic pain lies in the way we perceive and engage with our own emotions and habits? Join us as we tackle this intriguing question and uncover the habits that might be hindering your healing journey. We dive into the necessity of downtime and how regulating your nervous system can be a game changer. Plus, we're thrilled to introduce our new weekly virtual Qigong classes, perfect for anyone looking to enhance their somatic movement and breath work. These sessions are accessible to all, regardless of physical capability, and offer a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between mind and body, encouraging a more hopeful and optimistic mindset.Understanding the full spectrum of emotions is a cornerstone of our discussion, as we explore how avoiding or suppressing emotions can lead to physical pain, drawing insights from experts like Dr. Sarno and Dr. Schubiner. We highlight the importance of embracing all emotions as a pathway to healing, and share personal stories, including a humorous anecdote about using cleaning as an emotional avoidance tactic. We also address the fear-driven avoidance of movement and how it can limit life experiences. By sharing strategies like graded exposure, we aim to inspire you to challenge negative thinking, embrace movement, and lead a more connected and fulfilling life.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 Discl...

After years of battling with chronic neuroplastic pain, Tanner Murtaugh discovered the power of purposeful action as a transformative tool in their healing journey. Join us on the MindBodyCouple podcast, where we share how engaging in actions with a sense of purpose, passion, and creativity can help shift focus from fear-driven behaviors to those grounded in values and meaning. By letting go of perfectionism and embracing a life filled with small steps towards new career paths or hobbies, you'll learn how to transcend the constraints of chronic symptoms and find fulfillment in everyday life.We delve into personal stories, such as contemplating a major career shift or exploring creative hobbies like art and music, to illustrate the importance of balancing passion with ease and flexibility. Experience how low-pressure, meaningful activities can enhance your life, reduce symptoms, and bring a sense of wholeness. Be inspired to experiment with small, exciting projects that focus on creativity without the burden of deadlines, and see how these purposeful actions can lead to personal growth and a wider, more engaged world.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 Discl...

What if your dizziness and anxiety were more connected than you ever imagined? Join us in a groundbreaking conversation with Dr. Yonit Arthur, a board-certified audiologist and vestibular specialist, as we unravel the unexpected link between chronic dizziness and mental health challenges like anxiety and obsessive-compulsive patterns. Dr. Arthur sheds light on how sudden bouts of dizziness can trigger a cascade of anxiety, even in those without previous mental health issues, leading to a cycle of distress that can magnify symptoms. Understanding these intricate dynamics is crucial for anyone striving for effective recovery and relief.As we journey through the emotional landscape of neuroplastic healing, we emphasize the balance between seeking reassurance and embracing uncertainty. Dr. Arthur explains how excessive reassurance can lead to unhelpful obsessive patterns, while learning to tolerate uncertainty can pave the way for long-term healing. By fostering a personalized healing approach, especially for those with obsessive-compulsive patterns, we empower listeners to manage fear and anxiety more effectively. Dr. Yonit's Services: https://thesteadycoach.com/  Dr. Yonit's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSteadyCoach  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 Discl...