Heal with Grace
Heal With Grace is a podcast that invites listeners into the world of holistic healing. Hosted by Grace Secker, a trained holistic psychotherapist, yoga therapist, and nervous system coach, each episode delves into the interconnected realms of mental, physical, and spiritual health. The podcast offers a unique blend of personal stories, professional insights, and practical tools for healing.
Heal with Grace
72. Healing Chronic Pain as an Athlete with Charlie Merrill
In this episode, Grace welcomes Boulder-based physical therapist Charlie Merrill for a deep dive into how chronic pain shows up in athletes—and why it’s often misunderstood. They unpack the science behind pain, how emotional stress plays a role, and what it really takes to heal.
Covered in this episode:
- Why athletes are often overlooked in chronic pain treatment
- How Charlie shifted from traditional PT to a mind-body approach
- The brain’s role in interpreting pain (hint: it’s not all about injury)
- Why MRI results can create fear—even when they don’t match symptoms
- How identity and perfectionism play into athletic pain
- What “sacred symptoms” are and how pain can guide deeper insight
- Tips for reconnecting to joy and movement without fear
Connect with Charlie
Resources from Grace:
- Mind-Body Healing Method Program - start healing NOW
- Submit your Question for Grace to answer on the podcast
- Work with me in therapy or coaching
- FREE Chronic Pain Relief Starter Kit
- 6 weeks free with Curable: https://getcurable.com/healwithgrace
Connect with Grace