My Journey

Bea is an empathetic and compassionate advocate for those living with chronic pain. Bea  is an inspiring figure whose journey is rooted in a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Exemplified by her personal and professional roles as a devoted family member and a qualified registered nurse. With extensive experience in both the NHS and private healthcare, she has dedicated her career to supporting vulnerable populations through various aspects of care, from palliative to emergency services. Her background as a mental health support worker has further enriched her understanding of the intricate relationship between mental and physical health, making her an inspiring figure committed to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.

Bea's professional journey took an unexpected and challenging turn when she suffered an injury that led to the onset of chronic pain. Initially viewing her injury as a temporary setback, she soon faced the profound reality of grappling with debilitating pain that drastically altered her life. 

The impact of her condition was overwhelming; she found herself struggling to walk and faced the heartbreaking reality of not being able to pick up her youngest daughter, who was just three at the time of her injury, and whom she has never held whilst standing again. In not being able to work, Bea had to make the decision to retire from nursing clinically and gave up her pin, she was devastated. As despair and depression enveloped her, Bea reflected that her children were the reason she persevered during her darkest moments. 

Through years of navigating the complexities of chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and migraines, Bea's reliance on strong painkillers led her to an even deeper understanding of the toll these challenges take on one's life. In her quest for relief, she encountered many setbacks, often trapped in a relentless ‘boom and burst cycle’ and that of exhaustion. Simultaneously, she faced the emotional struggle of being a single parent, having surrendered her nursing registration due to her condition. The time away from the business of nursing gave space to be looking at past childhood and adult traumas, including being homeless with four children. During this challenging period, Bea felt the pain consumed her and took not only her career, but her identity, friendships, and her independence. 

Bea despite her clinical background and knowledge of the risks of medication, still this was no match for addiction to opioids and she started hiding codeine and bottles of morphine as those around her were growing in concern. Despite her prescriptions she was still in pain, and it wasn't long before the GP said she was at the end of being able to tolerate prescription medications. 

She faced the terrifying prospect of tapering off her prescribed medications, she knew she had to seek alternative methods for managing her pain. She was terrified! This pivotal moment ignited a spark within her—a determination that if she could find a way to heal herself, she could also help others navigate their pain journeys. In her relentless pursuit of understanding pain on a neuro-scientific level, how it works and how to manage it. Bea delved into research and explored various alternative therapies. She discovered not only new pain science, cold water swimming, but Forest bathing and the power of a deeper connection to nature, meditation and mindfulness. These all have became life-changing practices, offering her the tools to manage pain and cultivate resilience. Bea found through Forest bathing she became pain free, not just in her body but in her mind. Bea's inquisitive mind wanted not only to understand what just happened but get more of it! This ignited a newfound passion to being in the outdoors and once again Bea embarked on a journey and trained with the Natural Academy to become a NatureWell facilitator, studying eco-psychology and nature based practices.This training transforms her relationship with both herself, her connection with the outside world and her pain.

During this transformative journey, she discovered mindfulness, which proved to be life-changing. This newfound passion led her to train as a mindfulness facilitator with Breathworks. Her unique perspective combines her medical background with a deep appreciation for the therapeutic benefits of nature. Bea experienced firsthand the benefits of the natural world, and the need for us all to be more connected, less separate, this inspired her and gave birth to Nasayasbreath, a pioneering initiative focused on nature-based chronic pain workshops.

Currently, Bea still lives with chronic pain, but she is able to manage it for more than before and often has periods of being pain free. She has learnt to work compassionately with herself as apposed to fighting against it. Bea said her Christian faith is also very important to her, spending time with thoses dear to her and well as a warm or cold water dip whenever she gets chance.

Bea never ceases in her commitment to life long learning to expand her knowledge, she is currently pursuing a diploma in person-centered counseling while also running a pain café and leading meditation practices. Her unwavering commitment to helping others navigate the isolating world of chronic pain serves as a beacon of hope for many, reminding them that they are not alone on their journey.

Bea’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of nature, inspiring others to reclaim their lives and embrace a path to another way of being.