When a person has experienced chronic pain or lingering depression, there are often unresolved subconscious stress issues, stimulating the reflex brain to reduce blood flow to areas that are damaged. Dr. Sarno has an in-depth discussion of this in his book, The Mindbody Prescription. His insight and advice have been very helpful for those with these issues, and I highly recommend this book.
The problem does not have to be resolved, but it must be acknowledged.
Internal rage from childhood issues is a common cause.
Complex interpersonal issues are included in this category: Issues after a divorce, having to follow orders from a boss that one does not respect, and concern for parents or children that seem unresolvable.
Vent! At the beginning of a run, express your anger or rage. Shout if necessary. Argue with the absent adversary. Get in a good anger release. Then get on with the run. When you are angry or frustrated, the monkey brain will take you on an emotional roller coaster unless you take conscious mental action. Shouting your thoughts or saying statements to yourself activates the executive brain in the frontal lobe which overrides the emotional brain. With the conscious brain in charge, there is less chance that the subconscious will cause problems during the run. The natural calming effect of the run will stimulate mood-altering brain hormones, allowing you to feel better within a few minutes—and often for hours afterward.
Tapping or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)
Barbara Galloway has introduced me to tapping, which can also help you shift from a cycle of monkey brain emotions under stress to cognitive control, step by step. Visit the website of the founder, Gary Craig, at www.emofree.com, or do a search for “Gold Standard EFT Therapy”. Another source is Nick Ortner’s book, The Tapping Solution. For diet issues, search “Jessica Ortner, Weight Control.”