A very wise internist in Chicago once told me that the body is a metaphor for our emotions. I believe it. Look at the sayings we use: I can’t stomach that. He’s a pain in the neck (or other regions). My heart breaks for her. That chokes me up. She’s shouldering the burden.

I was reminded of this recently when a friend complained of constant shoulder pain. It went on for weeks. At the same time, her husband’s job was being eliminated, forcing them to live off her salary until, and if, he found a new job. I suggested the connection with her pain to her emotions but she was skeptical. She was ready to go to the doctor and have x-rays taken.

Then her husband was offered a job with a new company, their financial worries eased and VOILA. Her shoulder pain went away.

A male acquaintance suffered a heart attack after discovering that his wife had “tuned out” of their marriage. He had no risks for having a heart attack – wasn’t overweight, ate a healthy diet, no history in his family, etc – but he felt heartbroken that his wife had opted out of their marriage. Coincidence?

So what’s eating at you? Literally? Do you have a digestive problem? (Is there something in your life that you are having a hard time “stomaching?”) Or do you suffer pain in your neck that can’t be explained by bad posture or an injury? (Is there someone in your life who is a “pain in the neck?”)

Interesting to think about, isn’t it? Can you relate?

Have a great week.

Kate