Pain is an inevitable part of life, and yet, many of us find ourselves constantly running from it. We try to numb it through exercise, alcohol, work, or even casual encounters. While these distractions may provide temporary relief, they ultimately pull us further away from true healing and our authentic selves. The truth is, the real healing comes not from avoidance, but from facing our pain head-on, embracing it, and sitting with it.

Exercise is often seen as a great way to cope with pain—it makes us feel good temporarily, providing a sense of control over our bodies and emotions. But it’s not a true healing modality. As beneficial as physical activity can be, it cannot replace the deeper work required to heal emotional wounds. True healing only occurs when we allow ourselves to feel the pain, acknowledge its presence, and process it, often through conversation or prayer. It’s about getting to the roots of our pain and understanding its origins. When we avoid the discomfort of facing our emotions, we miss out on the opportunity for real self-awareness and empowerment.

When we suppress pain by overworking, engaging in distractions, or numbing ourselves with substances, we give our power away. We allow external things to dictate our emotional state and lose touch with our authenticity. This avoidance keeps us trapped in a cycle of numbness and disconnection. But when we face our pain, even the darkest and most overwhelming feelings, we reclaim our power. We learn to sit with our vulnerability, to experience our fears, and to move through the discomfort, all while staying grounded in ourselves.

The power to heal lies within us, not in external distractions. By facing our pain, asking ourselves tough questions, and offering it up in prayer or self-reflection, we are embracing the path to true self-awareness. It is through this process that we build emotional strength, regain control over our lives, and reconnect with our authentic selves. Only then can we truly stop giving our power away and start living fully.