Neuro-linguistic Programming (nlp) - Change Your World! Self-help for Fibromyalgia & Other Chronic Pain Sufferers

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) may help Fibromyalgia symptoms. It is a self-help approach that assists patients in understanding the way we think and feel. It is said that NLP can be a helpful fibromyalgia treatment by helping the sufferer find freedom from underlying emotional issues that contribute to chronic pain and other symptoms.  NLP is described as "the study of the structure of subjective experience".

“Neuro” refers to how the brain works.  “Linguistic” is defined as how language interacts with the brain.  The word “Programming” describes how we use this interaction to get the results we want for ourselves and others.  NLP a blend of cognitive and behavioral science.

It is said that NLP can be used to help people with quitting smoking, weight loss, performance, confidence, anxiety, anger management, stress relief, chronic pain, addiction, phobias, negative self-perception, insomnia and depression.

The basic principle of NLP is that the words we use reflect our inner, subconscious perception of our problems. If we allow our negative perceptions and words to fester, the underlying problem will continue.  These negative words and attitudes can actually become who we are - even if they are inaccurate.  Reality is processed by our five senses and nervous system which translates into experience. Our experience is then given meaning by language and non-verbal communication.

Looking at premise behind NLP, that language and non-verbal communication gives meaning to our experience, it does make sense that if we are made aware of our own negative communication patterns, experience can be modified into more positive ways of thinking and communicating.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming is designed to change unwanted behaviors and beliefs, to help us achieve personal acceptance and improve our lives.  NLP systematically explores, illustrates, and teaches patterns of human perception and information processing, behavior, and communication.  The goal is to help eliminate the things that block your abilities to function and strengthen those that help you achieve excellence and overall wellness.

Language & words have a powerful effect on altering perceptions. It is suggested that NLP offers a flexible approach which brings about positive, fast change in individuals, empowering them to adapt to an ever-shifting inner world.  NLP shows us how to understand and model our own successes in a realistic way, so that we can reproduce them.

NLP experts say that positive self-talk is a must, no negatives.  You do get what you focus on, so focus on what you want.  Basically, its an attitude adjustment.

NLP is new to me and maybe to you as well.  I have not experienced this therapy myself, but I feel it is important to present it as an option for FM and chronic pain.  Since we are all so different when it comes to our pain perception, severity and emotional status, what might work for some, may not work for others.  Discuss NLP with your healthcare provider to decide if NLP is worth a try.