EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of the Soma Moon Wellness Podcast, Jeanetta Bodie sits down with Andrew Bennett, Doctor of Physical Therapy and author of Healing Together. Together, they explore how pain is experienced in the body and brain, why chronic pain is often misunderstood, and how education, compassion, and support systems play a vital role in healing.

Andrew shares the three primary types of pain, explains the difference between the brain and the mind, and unpacks why phrases like “it’s all in your head” can feel dismissive rather than supportive. The conversation highlights the importance of partners, dignity, self-efficacy, and hope—and how healing happens best when people feel safe, believed, and supported.

IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN

• The three types of pain: nociceptive, neuropathic, and persistent central pain

• Why chronic pain is not imagined, exaggerated, or “just psychological”

• The difference between the brain and the mind—and why that distinction matters

• How pain patterns can become invisible to the person experiencing them

• Why partners and support systems often have more influence than medical providers

• How anticipation and prediction of pain can amplify symptoms

• The role of dignity, self-efficacy, and hope in recovery from persistent pain

• How education empowers better questions, conversations, and care

WHY THIS CONVERSATION MATTERS

People living with chronic pain are often left feeling confused, invalidated, and alone. Many are told that their pain is “in their head” without the compassion or context needed to understand what that truly means.

This conversation matters because it reframes pain as a protective response shaped by the nervous system, lived experience, and environment. It emphasizes that healing is not about fixing a broken body, but about restoring safety, trust, and agency. By including partners and loved ones in the healing process, pain no longer has to be navigated in isolation.

LEARN MORE & STAY CONNECTED

If this episode resonated, explore the Healing Together Companion Course, available through Soma Moon Wellness. This course walks chapter-by-chapter through Andrew’s book, offering deeper explanation, practical tools, and printable resources designed for individuals and their support systems.

• Healing Together by Andrew Bennett is available on Amazon and through his website  www.absimplicity.com

• Learn more about Soma Moon Wellness education and movement offerings on our website somamoonwellness.com

• Subscribe to the podcast and newsletter for upcoming episodes and resources

• Explore Whole Self Education, yoga therapy, and upcoming offerings on our website somamoonwellness.com

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If this episode resonated with you, consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing it with someone who might need the reminder that healing doesn’t require fixing—only presence.

Be well. Be loved. Be blessed.

Namaste.