The article explores the author's experiences with pain and presence during challenging situations, such as childbirth and ultra-marathons. The central idea is that the brain reacts to new experiences by connecting them to familiar sensations. The author recounts instances of disassociation linked to past traumas and how, during moments of intense physical strain, they found a surprising release from their typical overthinking. Ultimately, these experiences taught them how to briefly connect with the present, despite their tendency to overanalyze moments.
My brain attempts to stabilize by associating it with a feeling or task I already understand... I realized that wasn't true. My body copes with pain by turning my brain off.
I can recognize when something is a moment, but my brain will keep telling me: Appreciate this moment! I remember holding my newborn in my arms and thinking, Later, I will want to be back here.
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