Life is a garden and within it, we are all Roses - unique, resilient and capable of blooming and sparkling in our own time. Yet, the journey to becoming our fullest, most radiant selves is not without challenges. Pain, much like the thorns on a Rose stem, can feel sharp and unwelcome. These thorns are not here to harm us; they are part of what strengthens and protects us, guiding us toward the light.
As Kahlil Gibran, (1883-1931, Lebanese-American philosophical essayist, novelist, poet and artist) beautifully wrote, "Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding." Pain has the power to crack open what no longer serves us, revealing the tender, authentic core within. Today, we will explore how we can use tapping to embrace pain as a catalyst for growth and transformation - one thorn at a time.
The Role of Pain in Transformation
Pain is not the enemy; it is the gardener of our soul, pruning away what is no longer needed so we can flourish. Like a Rosebud tightly held within its green cocoon, we often resist the discomfort of change. However, it is through the cracks - through the breaking open - that we allow ourselves to bloom.
Every thorn, every ache, every challenge is a part of our growth. It nudges us to shed old patterns, release limiting beliefs and uncover the beauty within. Pain reminds us that we are alive and evolving. Just as a Rose leans toward the sun to unfurl its petals, we too can lean into the light of understanding and growth.
What if, instead of fearing pain, we chose to see it as an ally? What if we embraced it as a sacred part of our journey, trusting that every thorn has its purpose? Let us honour this process together, with compassion and curiosity, as we tap our way toward wellness and transformation.
Tapping Sequence 1: Acknowledging and Honoring Your Pain Without Judgement
Take a deep breath, centre yourself and begin tapping along with me. This first sequence is designed to help you acknowledge your pain and hold space for it with compassion and understanding.
Before You Begin:
On a standard 0-to-10 Subjective Units of Distress (SUD) scale:
0 represents feeling fully connected to your pain with complete acceptance, free from judgement.
10 represents feeling disconnected, overwhelmed and resisting your pain.
Where would you place yourself right now? Take a moment to note this number. We will revisit it after the tapping to observe any shifts.
Setup Statements: Repeat the three setup statements while tapping on the Side of the Hand (SOH) point:
“Even though this pain feels overwhelming, I deeply and completely accept myself and how I feel.”
“Even though I wish this pain would just go away, I honour it as part of my journey.”
“Even though this pain feels unbearable at times, I am open to the possibility that it is here to help me grow.”
Tapping Points
Begin tapping through the following acupoints while saying the associated phrases.
Top of Head (TOH) Point:
Located directly on the crown of the head.
o “This pain feels so heavy.”
Eyebrow (EB) Point:
Located at the start of the eyebrow, near the bridge of the nose.
o “I have been resisting this pain for so long.”
Side of Eye (SE) Point:
Located on the bone at the outer corner of the eye.
o “It is hard to believe there’s a purpose in this.”
Under Eye (UE) Point:
Located on the bone directly under the eye.
o “Why is this happening to me?”
Under the Nose (UN):
Located between the nose and upper lip.
o “I am so tired of carrying this pain.”
Chin (CP) Point:
Located in the crease between the lower lip and chin.
o “Maybe this pain is trying to tell me something.”
Collarbone (CB) Point:
Located just below the collarbone, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the base of the throat.
o “What if this pain is here to help me grow?”
Under the Arm (UA) Point:
Located on the side of the body, about 10 cm (4 inches) below the armpit.
o “I am open to honouring this pain and learning from it.”
Take a deep breath in and out. Notice how your body feels. Repeat the tapping round as needed until you feel a shift. Check your initial score: has your connection with your pain shifted toward greater acceptance and understanding?
This is the first step in transforming your relationship with pain - acknowledging it without judgement and allowing space for wellness to begin.
Pain as a Catalyst for Understanding
Pain is not just an obstacle; it is a Rose seed buried deep within our soul, waiting to sprout into understanding. When we face pain, it can feel as though we are stuck among the thorns, but in reality, we are being prepared to bloom and sparkle✨. Pain often reveals what is out of alignment in our lives. It calls us to examine old wounds, unmet needs, or patterns that no longer serve us. In this way, pain is a messenger - not a punishment.
Think of the last time you experienced significant growth. Chances are, it was preceded by discomfort or challenge. Whether it was the end of a relationship, a health crisis, or a loss, that pain likely cracked something open in you. And through that crack, light and understanding began to pour in. Like a Rose breaking free from its bud, your pain pushes you toward the sunlight of clarity and growth.
Each thorn may sting, but it also teaches. Each prick encourages you to shed layers of self-doubt and fear, making way for new petals of resilience and wisdom. Pain is not the end of the story; it is the beginning of your blooming and sparkling.
Tapping Sequence 2: Releasing Resistance and Embracing Growth
Now let us tap on releasing resistance to pain and embracing it as a tool for growth.
Setup Statements: Repeat the three setup statements while tapping on the Side of the Hand (SOH) point:
“Even though I have been resisting this pain, I choose to release my resistance now.”
“Even though I don’t like this pain, I am open to the possibility that it is helping me grow.”
“Even though I am scared to face this pain, I trust that I am strong enough to handle it.”
Tapping Points
Begin tapping through the following acupoints while saying the associated phrases.
Top of Head (TOH) Point:
Located directly on the crown of the head.
o “I have been fighting this pain for so long.”
Eyebrow (EB) Point:
Located at the start of the eyebrow, near the bridge of the nose.
o “It feels easier to push it away.”
Side of Eye (SE) Point:
Located on the bone at the outer corner of the eye.
o “But the pain doesn’t go away when I resist it.”
Under Eye (UE) Point:
Located on the bone directly under the eye.
o “What if I could face this pain with compassion?”
Under the Nose (UN):
Located between the nose and upper lip.
o “What if this pain is here to show me something important?”
Chin (CP) Point:
Located in the crease between the lower lip and chin
o “I am willing to release my resistance.”
Collarbone (CB) Point:
Located just below the collarbone, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the base of the throat.
o “I am open to embracing this pain as part of my journey.”
Under the Arm (UA) Point:
Located on the side of the body, about 10 cm (4 inches) below the armpit.
o “Through this pain, I am growing and understanding more about myself.”
Take another deep breath and feel into your body. Notice any shifts - even subtle ones. You are learning to embrace the gift of pain and unlock the understanding it holds.
This blog was inspired by a cherished friend who is going through heartbreak at the moment. Witnessing their journey has been a reminder that, like a Rose, we often need to endure the thorny moments to bloom fully and sparkle🌹✨. Pain can feel isolating, however, you are never alone.
If you are struggling or simply need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am here to guide you on your path to wellness and growth. Together, we can navigate the intricate challenges and help you rediscover the bold courage, unwavering strength and resilient spirit within.
Remember, just as a Rose unfolds its petals toward the sunlight, you too can grow through your pain. All you need to do is ask for help and I will be here to guide you every step of the way.
With love and understanding ♥
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