Perfectionism, pressure, and the belief that we’re never “enough” are some of the most overlooked drivers of chronic pain and today’s episode digs deep into how to break that cycle.

Therapist John Gasienica and special guest Vanessa Blackstone explore the emotional patterns behind nervous system dysregulation through the story of Jaycie, a nurse and mom dealing with chronic pain and burnout. They uncover how early life messages, people-pleasing, and emotional suppression (especially around anger and rest) keep us stuck and how to begin softening those patterns with real, grounded self-compassion.

Vanessa also shares personal reflections on grief and healing, and the episode walks listeners through somatic and visualization tools to begin shifting pain from the inside out.

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