A New Way to Understand Pain
- Simon Cribb
- May 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 1
Most people who walk into my clinic have been told some version of the same story: “It’s just wear and tear.” “It’s your age.” “Your scan shows degeneration — you’ll have to live with it.”
But this narrative rarely matches how pain actually behaves. It flares with stress. It settles when life settles. It improves with sleep, light, warmth, and gentle support. Often, it has very little to do with what a scan shows.
That’s why I’ve written the How We Look At Pain page on my website. I aim to offer a clearer, more compassionate, physiology-based explanation of what pain really is and why it’s often far more hopeful than people realize.

Pain Is Not a Verdict — It’s a Message
Pain is not your body “breaking down.” It’s your body asking for resources. Bones, joints, and connective tissues are alive. They repair themselves constantly. But this repair system is energy-hungry. When life gets stressful, sleep gets disrupted, or the system becomes overloaded, repair can fall behind.
When that happens, micro-damage lingers. Inflammation hangs around longer than it should, and nerves become more sensitive. The result? Pain that feels deep, stubborn, or confusing. This is the foundation of what I call the Bone Energy Hypothesis of Pain—a way of understanding pain that aligns with what people actually experience in real life.
Why This Matters for Treatment
When we see pain as a message rather than a mechanical fault, treatment becomes gentler, more effective, and more human. Instead of forcing tissues, we support them. Instead of overriding the body, we help it shift from defence back into repair.
This is where the Integral Light Process comes in. It’s a blend of infrared light, colour-based light, and gentle vibration that helps:
Improve cellular energy
Calm the nervous system
Reduce unnecessary pain signalling
Support natural repair
Many people feel their pain “switch off” or soften in a way that finally makes sense to them.
The Importance of Understanding Pain
Understanding pain is crucial for anyone dealing with discomfort. It empowers us to take control of our healing journey. When we recognize that pain is a message, we can respond with kindness and care rather than fear.
Pain can often feel isolating. But you are not alone in this experience. Many have walked this path and found relief. By embracing a holistic approach, we can foster a deeper understanding of our bodies and their needs.
Why I Created This New Page
I wanted a place where people could read a clearer, kinder explanation of pain—one that matches what I see clinically every day:
Pain is real.
Pain is changeable.
Pain often improves when the repair system is supported.
You are not falling apart.
The new page brings together physiology, clinical experience, and a more modern understanding of how the body protects and heals itself. If you’ve ever felt confused or discouraged by the explanations you’ve been given about your pain, this page is for you.
Read the New Page
You can explore the full explanation here: How We Look At Pain https://www.backinharmony.net/howwelookatpain.
The Journey to Healing
Healing is not just about alleviating pain. It’s about nurturing the whole self. When we focus on holistic pain relief, we open doors to deeper wellness. This journey involves understanding our bodies, our emotions, and our environments.
The Role of Self-Care
Self-care plays a vital role in our healing process. Simple practices like meditation, gentle movement, and mindful breathing can significantly impact our pain levels. These practices help us reconnect with our bodies and foster a sense of safety and comfort.
Building a Support System
Having a support system is essential. Surrounding ourselves with understanding friends, family, or professionals can make a world of difference. Sharing our experiences can lighten the burden and provide new perspectives.
Embracing Change
Change can be daunting, especially when it comes to our health. But embracing change is a crucial part of healing. It allows us to adapt and grow. Remember, every small step counts. Celebrate your progress, no matter how minor it may seem.
Finding Hope
Hope is a powerful ally in our healing journey. It can inspire us to seek out new treatments, explore different therapies, and stay committed to our well-being. Remember, your journey is unique, and it’s okay to seek what resonates with you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding pain is a vital step toward healing. By viewing pain as a message rather than a verdict, we can approach our treatment with compassion and curiosity. I encourage you to explore the resources available to you, including the How We Look At Pain page. Together, we can navigate this journey toward a pain-free and fulfilling life.






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