Understanding the Nervous System as a Partner

In this episode of Healing with Coherence, host Mik explores the intersection of movement therapy and neurology with guest Tom Swales, a physiotherapist and strength coach. The discussion centers on the common misconception that the nervous system is merely a source of discomfort, rather than a sophisticated survival mechanism. Swales emphasizes that the primary job of the nervous system is to ensure survival—constantly scanning for threats and prioritizing safety.

Pain as a Signal, Not a Failure

Swales argues that most orthopedic issues are neurological until proven otherwise. When a person experiences pain, it is the nervous system’s way of signaling that something in the system requires attention. Often, people mistakenly focus on the site of the pain—such as the elbow or back—without realizing that the brain is the actual interpreter of these signals. This focus can lead to catastrophizing, which keeps the body trapped in a sympathetic nervous system state.

Shifting from Sympathetic to Parasympathetic

To achieve true healing, Swales explains that one must transition from a sympathetic state (fight, flight, freeze) to a parasympathetic state (rest, digest, recover). In a sympathetic state, the body is unable to learn or adapt effectively. By identifying the 'lynchpin' or root cause of the neurological signal, the nervous system can begin to relax. As the system calms down, the body becomes more organized and coordinated, leading to improved movement and a significant reduction in pain. The key, according to Swales, is to treat the nervous system as a partner in the healing process rather than an adversary.