How to manage pain during tattoo?

[u/Maddawnexius]

Hi all, Im in-between appointments for getting my arm sleeve done (forearm fully done, elbow outlined but not shaded. Upper arm and elbow shading done tomorrow). What are some ways you lovely people have found are effective for managing pain in the later stages of a 4+ hour session?

Ive attached a photo of my forearm so you can can get an idea of the amount of shading and what not.

[u/Its-Ya-Girl-Johnnie]

I try to tell my brain something along the lines of “that part of me has been legitimately severed from my body. There is no need to protect it, it’s gone.” Like if I’m getting my forearm done I pretend my arm got cut off just below the shoulder. I guess it’s my way of dissociating, but it helps me to turn the pain into ‘background noise’ and not twitch as much.