Emotional Drivers Behind Arthritis
In this episode of The Mind Change Podcast with Heather McKean, we explore the emotional roots of arthritis—a topic close to Heather's heart, given her diagnoses of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, while affecting joints, have distinct differences. Osteoarthritis results from the gradual wearing away of cartilage due to natural joint wear and tear, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks joint tissues. The specific location of arthritis in the body provides valuable insights into the emotional experiences and communication signals expressed by the body.
Arthritis often manifests in individuals dealing with significant life conflicts, challenging the common notion that it is exclusively linked to old age. Those with arthritis may grapple with feelings of receiving life's short end, along with self-criticism, stubbornness, and regret.
Examining the role of boundaries, we understand that a lack of healthy boundaries in one's upbringing can make conflict a familiar state, shaping belief systems and manifesting in critical, judgmental, or pessimistic behavior. Seeking homeostasis, the body may perceive conflict as the norm, leading to a cycle of negativity and hostility.
Childhood experiences significantly contribute to arthritis development, especially for those raised in authoritarian environments or left to emotionally fend for themselves. Unmet parental expectations and rigid frameworks projected onto children contribute to a confined emotional space, impacting joint movement.
Transitioning to rheumatoid arthritis, individuals may harbor intense self-hate, shame, and guilt, turning these emotions inward. The immune system, initially meant to protect, metaphorically reflects childhood experiences where parental figures seemed like sources of attack. Heather emphasizes the importance of recognizing these conditions as manifestations of deep-seated emotional patterns. Rheumatoid arthritis is prevalent in individuals lacking personal boundaries, sacrificing their needs for perceived approval.
Both general arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis represent entrenched identities within the mind and body. The pain they cause signals a need for change, urging a shift in core beliefs and challenging long-standing patterns.
Join us in this episode as we delve into the transformative power of Mind Change tools for healing—addressing and releasing challenging experiences. Despite initial hurdles, armed with the right tools, this journey is entirely achievable, a path Heather has personally navigated and can confirm.
In this episode, you will learn:
🔄 The distinctions between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, impacting joints and the immune system.
🔄 How arthritis can manifest in individuals dealing with significant life conflicts.
🚧 The role of boundaries in shaping beliefs and contributing to conflict in the body's pursuit of homeostasis.
🌱 The impact of childhood experiences in authoritarian environments on arthritis development.
⚖️ The transition to rheumatoid arthritis, where emotional turmoil affects the immune system.
🚨 Recognize arthritis as a manifestation of deep-seated emotional patterns.
🚷 The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in individuals lacking personal boundaries.
🔄 Entrenched identities within the mind and body associated with arthritis.
🛠️ The transformative power of Mind Change tools for healing, overcoming initial hurdles, as attested by Heather's personal journey.
And more!
📚 Get Heather’s book - “Mind Change: Changing The World One Mind At A Time” - HERE
🎓 Courses: https://www.mindchange.com/course
🌄 Retreats: https://www.mindchange.com/retreat
📅 Weekend Workshops: https://www.mindchange.com/events
📚 Book Club Facilitator Guides 🚀https://www.mindchange.com/bookclub
Subscribe, watch and listen on your favorite platform!
