@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such a firm believer in neuroplasticity! I'd like to share with you that I'm trying hard to practice this theory and this past weekend was benefited by it while away at the lake for a small redirection of life. I ACTUALLY went on a 2 mile trail hike with my husband!!! I was (and still am) dumbfounded by my accomplishment. My family was astonished and so proud. It felt incredibly liberating. I continue to scratch my head at to how I did it. But, here's what I crack it up to...I went slow, with frequent rests. Both on a bench and standing still, bending over. I used a lot of brain power by talking myself through, mentally arguing with the feelings and sensations I felt in my body and dismissing them. I had focus, which is key, and incredible distraction. Nature is healing and I know that. My first day at the cabin was one where I sat back and said goodbye as my husband and daughter went off to explore the trails. Day two, I was determined to make it happen for myself. Pain medicine is just one aspect of what helped me but, I'm most proud to have had the push, the desire. I've read that traveling creates new neurons and aids in neuroplasticity, in addition to learning a new language, eating and using your opposite hand, learning to play an instrument, driving new routes. Barry ~ I hope you are well and wish to thank you for being a little voice in my head when it comes to retraining the brain. You're the best! May you reach your goals of riding your bike outside of your house! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
Best wishes,
Rachel