In our efforts to retrain the brain we will need to use specific tools to help us out. These tools have been designed to work with the changes we see to our neurobiology as a result of living with persistent pain for some time. These tools have been researched thoroughly (and continue to be researched) and are offering some great results when practiced consistently.

When we start to work with Graded Motor Imagery to retrain the nervous system you have some choice as to which tools you would like to work with. We will begin working with these within the third week of the program so please order/collect the tools right away.

Graded Motor Imagery Tool Options:

1) Recognise App: This app was developed by my favourite pain researchers in Australia. You will need to purchase one 'body part' or area where you feel pain to begin the process (it costs about $9). Based on the feedback from graduates of our program, this app is the most popular way to practice.

Other Tools:

2) Mirror - as you progress through the Graded Motor Imagery part of the course you will need a mirror to help you out with some of the brain retraining drills.

Mirror details:

a) Small mirror - a medium sized mirror is great for brain retraining when dealing with hands or wrists. This is where we typically begin, before we move on to the area where you feel the most pain. This mirror ideally should a good one that gives a true reflection. The glass mirrors tend not to be as good but the perspex mirrors are much better (even a poor reflection can increase pain).

b) A taller, free standing mirror - is best for everything else. The type of mirror also applies here. A 5 ft mirror that stands on it's own works well with most of the body.

3) Sensory tools - some of the work we will be doing to retrain the peripheral nervous system is sensory work. Here you will need a small collection of different textures. You will need a few small paint brushes, cotton balls or make up removers, an old toothbrush and a pencil. It is my hope that you can pull most of these things from your home. Feel free to bring other sensory items along to try (blankets, clothing, etc).

4) A small pilates ball that will be used as part of our return to meaningful movement and myofascial release work.

5) A pair of 'Yoga Tune Up Balls' that can be purchased on Amazon or direct from the supplier.

Tools You Need For This Course

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