
The Mind-Body Couple
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.comAlso check out Tanner's YouTube channel for more free education and practices: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Fl6WaFHnh4ponuexaMbFQAnd follow us for daily education posts on Instagram: @painpsychotherapyDisclaimer: The information provided on this podcast is for general informational and educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice, psychotherapy, or counselling. If you choose to utilize any of the education, strategies, or techniques in this podcast you are doing so at your own risk.
Latest episodes

Oct 17, 2024 • 28min
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 Discl...

Oct 10, 2024 • 30min
Harnessing Neuroplasticity for Healing: Brain Retraining to Overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with Raelan Agle
What if the path to healing chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID lies not in medication or supplements, but within our own minds? Discover how special guest Raelan Agle transformed her decade-long battle with chronic fatigue syndrome into a journey of recovery and empowerment. As the creator of a thriving YouTube channel, Raelan Agle shares the evolving stories of resilience and recovery, highlighting a critical shift towards understanding the interconnectedness of stress, emotions, and the autonomic nervous system. Together, we delve into the powerful role lifestyle choices, career paths, and self-perception play in the healing process, as individuals within the chronic illness community are increasingly recognizing the profound connection between emotional and physical well-being.Join us in this enlightening conversation where we explore the revolutionary impact of neuroplasticity and brain retraining practices on chronic symptoms. Through engaging discussions, we reveal how these innovative approaches focus on internal transformation and creating a sense of safety and calm, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments. Learn how brain retraining, initially designed for chronic pain, is now making waves in treating conditions like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and long COVID by addressing the brain's response to perceived threats. We invite you to explore the diverse methods and resources available for those eager to embrace this forward-thinking approach to healing and reclaim their lives.Learn more about Raelan Agle's work below:Website - https://raelanagle.com/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/RaelanAgleInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/raelan.agle/My book - Finding Freedom: Escaping From the Prison of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome https://amzn.to/3LJcTgkCourse - Brain Retraining 101: For ME/CFS & Long Covid Recovery raelan-agle-s-school1.teachable.com/p/Brain_Retraining_101Tanner 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...

Sep 26, 2024 • 25min
Maintaining Healing and Regulating Your Nervous System: Daily Practices for Long-Term Wellness
Ever wondered why your chronic pain or symptoms returns even after periods of relief? Learn the secrets to sustaining your healing journey and discover daily practices that can regulate your nervous system for the long run. We share compelling personal stories and client observations that reveal common pitfalls and emphasize the necessity of a lifestyle overhaul. From reshaping your thoughts and beliefs to brain retraining and creating social safety, we'll offer a comprehensive guide to maintaining these essential practices. Despite the effort required, the long-term benefits are undeniably worth it.Unlock the power of Qigong and the refreshing effects of cold showers as part of your daily self-care routine. Tanner shares his personal experience with Qigong and provides resources on his YouTube channel to help you get started. We also uncover the surprising benefits of cold showers on your parasympathetic nervous system. Learn how co-regulation in nature and mindfulness of old coping mechanisms can further contribute to your well-being. Stay open to experimenting with new activities, like cold plunges or engaging with horses, to find what truly works for you. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with practical tips to help you lead a balanced, healthy lifestyle.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...

Sep 19, 2024 • 19min
Exploring Neuroplastic Pain and Symptoms: Unlocking the Brain's Role in Chronic Pain/Symptoms and Healing
Can pain and physical symptoms exist without any physical damage? Join us for a mind-bending exploration on the MindBodyCouple podcast as we unravel the mysteries of neuroplastic pain and symptoms. Hosts Tanner Murtaugh and Anne Hampson dive into the science behind chronic pain/symptoms, explaining how the brain can misinterpret harmless signals as threats, leading to real pain/symptoms despite the absence of injury. We break down complex concepts like "chronic primary pain" and "chronic secondary pain," revealing the brain's role in amplifying these sensations. You'll get a firsthand look at compelling studies, including the amusing yet enlightening "hairdryer study," demonstrating how our beliefs can shape our physical experience. Learn about groundbreaking treatments for neuroplastic pain and symptoms with Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT). We'll discuss a fascinating study where a simulated car crash triggered neck pain in participants, mirroring global chronic whiplash syndrome rates. Building on Dr. Sarno's pioneering work, we'll show you how altering beliefs and processing emotions can drastically improve chronic pain. Discover the impressive results of PRT, where a staggering 98% of participants reported pain reduction, and 66% became pain-free or nearly pain-free. We unpack the five essential factors for treating neuroplastic pain/symptoms and highlight the transformative somatic safety method. Tune in to equip yourself with the knowledge and techniques to start your journey toward a pain and symptom free living.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...

Sep 12, 2024 • 33min
Unraveling Neuroplastic Pain/Symptoms: 7 Ways it Develops
Can the mind really amplify pain even when your body is healed? Join us as we unravel this fascinating concept of neuroplastic pain and symptoms Fresh off our family trip to British Columbia, we share our travel adventures with young children and shift our focus to understanding the seven ways neuroplastic pain and symptoms develop. We dive deep into how pain signals can serve as meaningful messages rather than mere mistakes, and how recognizing these signals can lead to profound personal healing journeys.Discover how stress, life transitions, and even high-intensity living contribute to chronic pain, and why processing emotions proactively is crucial. Learn about the intricate links between mental health issues like depression and anxiety with chronic pain, and the urgent need to address external factors that make us feel unsafe. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to manage chronic pain holistically and maintain both mental and physical well-being.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...

Aug 29, 2024 • 20min
How Can I Release Stored Trauma and Emotions from My Body?
Ever wondered why animals seem to bounce back from stress so effortlessly, while humans often get stuck? In this episode, Tanner and Anne dive deep into the science of trauma and the nervous system, guided by insights from experts like Peter Levine and Deb Dana. We'll explore how intentional movement can rewire our nervous systems from a state of chronic stress to one of connection and healing. Hear how animals naturally navigate fight, flight, and freeze responses, and learn why humans often struggle to do the same. With practical tips and heartfelt stories, we offer you actionable steps to start your journey toward emotional regulation and self-compassion. Whether you're new to somatic practices or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.Polyvagal Informed Qigong Group Details: https://www.painpsychotherapy.ca/polyvagal-informed-qigong-groupTanner 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...

Aug 22, 2024 • 25min
The Seven Stages of Mind-Body Healing: The Process of Healing Chronic Pain and Illness
Imagine spending years in search of a cure for chronic pain or symptoms, only to find the answer in an unexpected place. That's precisely what happened to us, Tanner and Anne, as we navigated the rocky terrain of mind-body healing. Join us on this episode of the MindBodyCouple podcast as we peel back the layers of our personal journeys and introduce you to the seven stages of healing. We kick things off by explaining why physical and diagnostic efforts are often the first stop for many people, including ourselves, and how this starting point sets the stage for a more profound exploration of mind-body connections.Ever found yourself up late at night desperately Googling for answers? We did too, and it led us to the groundbreaking work of Dr. Sarno, which became a turning point in our healing paths. Listen as we share the steps we took to gather evidence, understand the mind-body link, and start experimenting with new approaches to pain treatment. We delve into the transformation that happens when you reduce avoidance behaviors and embrace cognitive safety messages. Finally, we talk about the exhilarating moment of fully committing to brain retraining and somatic practices, which brought us significant healing gains and a renewed sense of hope. Tune in for a compelling conversation filled with practical advice and inspiring stories that might just change how you approach your own healing journey.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...

Aug 15, 2024 • 22min
You Can't Go Back to the Person You Were Before You Developed Chronic Symptoms
How do you reconcile with the idea that you may never be the person you once were? Join us as we unravel this tender and challenging journey, starting with a light-hearted update on our recent kid-free adventure and the charming Dumbo-themed birthday party we're planning for our son. We then pivot to a profound discussion on the impact of chronic pain and symptoms, often rooted in a lifetime of coping mechanisms. This episode emphasizes the necessity of grieving the loss of your former self and embracing new ways to manage and cope with chronic conditions, offering a compassionate perspective on acceptance and adjustment.Living a high-intensity lifestyle driven by constant achievement can significantly contribute to health flares. Tanner shares a deeply personal story from his master's degree days, highlighting how relentless pursuit of perfection led to increased symptoms. We emphasize the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes, underscoring the value of resources like podcasts and YouTube meditations to foster a sense of safety for your brain and nervous system. 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...

Aug 8, 2024 • 26min
Tone That Vagus Nerve & Heal Your Chronic Pain & Symptoms
Discover the secrets to a healthier, more balanced life as we share the transformative power of high vagal tone. We break down the crucial role of vagal tone in managing chronic pain, anxiety, IBS, and other health issues, and promise to arm you with practical strategies to enhance your own vagal tone. Through personal stories and heartfelt anecdotes, we reveal how small, consistent practices can lead to significant improvements in your well-being. This episode is packed with insights and experiences designed to guide you on your healing journey, making the path to a resilient nervous system both enjoyable and accessible.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...

Aug 1, 2024 • 24min
Decoding Pain/Symptom Flares Part 2: A Process for Coming Out of a Flare
In this episode, Tanner shares a relatable personal story about a sudden pain flare during his recovery journey in Ontario. He discusses the emotional and physical challenges that accompany such flare-ups, emphasizing the role of conditioned responses and stress. The conversation introduces a practical three-step process to manage these challenges, including identifying root causes and recognizing triggers. With real-life examples, Tanner empowers listeners to navigate their healing journeys with confidence and resilience.