How mindfulness can bring relief with chronic pain

(Aryanna Denk/ Healthline) — If you live life with chronic pain, you’ve probably gotten some unsolicited advice.

“Have you tried meditation?” your hairdresser asks.

“Having a positive mindset changes everything,” says your co-worker.

Of course, this type of comment usually has the opposite effect. These well-meaning words can make it seem as though the pain is all in your head.

The reality is that a mindful approach to pain has nothing to do with denying your experience. It’s all about getting real with it, accepting it, and even embracing it. (…)