Pain hinders concentration

It has been my experience that it is very difficult to concentrate when I am uncomfortable. The mind finds it difficult to rise above the matter. This is true regardless of the nature of the pain, whether it be physical discomfort or mental anxiety. Our nature is such that our attention goes to the factor that in our mind demands it most stridently. I suppose it is one of the features of a truly disciplined person to be able to focus his mind in the midst of such things.