Written by guest blogger: Sarina Harris
Connection Between Mind & Body
The brain plays a central role in all systematic functions in the body. In this instance, the brain is in control of our cognitive functions which impact the physical sensations we have.
The bodily reaction we get from the state of mind we are in has to do with the longest nerve in the body, the Vagus Nerve. Extending from the medulla in the brain to the abdomen, it regulates many of our organs allowing them to adapt to our external environment. When the brain detects any threat, it creates a stress response in the body which can result in constricted pupils, sweaty palms, a dropping stomach, a racing heartbeat, and a sharpening of the senses.
One’s vagus nerve can be dysfunctional because of overstimulation, leading to anxiety, acid reflux, an overactive gut, difficulty speaking, etc. An underactive vagus nerve can also be an issue and could be a common factor in those facing depression and PTSD.
It’s crucial to know the role this nerve has in your mental well-being to help regulate it back to its balanced state. Later in this blog, we will discuss the many ways to achieve this on your own time.
The Power of Belief and Intuition
Each of us has the freedom to decide what it is that we believe in, in addition to the ability to change our beliefs. The beliefs and attitudes we cling to are what shape our perspectives, which in turn, influence our emotions and behaviors.
“… Letting go is harder than you think because of your conditioning to get, defend, prove, or blame. Yet, the process of actualizing happiness has always been an acceptance, surrender, and humble allowance.” ― Mathew Micheletti (The Inner Work)
But how can our thoughts impact our physical health? The answer is in the interconnectedness of the mind and body. Our thoughts and beliefs can activate specific hormones in the body, harboring physical changes in the body. Similar to how depressed brains can experience chronic body pain or an angry mind can cause someone to unconsciously have a tight jaw.
Nephrology specialist, Patricia Hart, says, “Each mental state has a physiology associated with it—a positive or negative effect felt in the physical body. For example, the mental state of anxiety causes you to produce stress hormones” (Hart). Problems tend to arise when we’re deeply rooted in our repetitive and negative thoughts and beliefs. Whether we are consciously aware of it, these beliefs are limiting our growth. Just by worrying or having negative thoughts, we are unknowingly damaging our bodies.
The first change you can make in your belief system can start right now; when you choose to believe in the various mind and body calming techniques. With the practice of mindfulness, we can be present and aware of our thoughts and emotions, without judgment. With this new awareness, we can then consciously choose to replace them with more supportive beliefs.
“The most powerful attitude and outlook on life is gratitude. In the state of gratitude, there can be no suffering. There is no lack nor fear.”
Balance Diet + Exercise + Sleep
Prioritize getting at least 8 hours of deep, quality sleep every night. Move your body with intention for at least 30 minutes each day. Ensure you’re properly feeding your body the nutrients it needs to show up for you in the best way.
Social Connection
Step outside of your mind and jump into another world of thoughts with your friends and family. The more you laugh with them, the better you’re likely to feel.
CBT
Consider cognitive behavioral therapy that is going to help you pinpoint your specific dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors and boost your mental health. So long as you make a commitment to these changes.
Music Therapy
Listen to uplifting beats and sing it out to stimulate the vocal cords connected to your vagus nerve.
Aromatherapy
Stimulate a whole body transformation and trigger your sense of smell with scents that make you calm and happy.
Somatic Therapies
Assist your physical body in processing unwanted emotions rather than ignoring or festering in them. Thought field therapy, also known as “psychological acupuncture,” is an evidence based method by psychologist Roger Callahan, to help let go of negative thoughts and emotions, to repattern unhelpful ways of thinking. Reframing our thoughts allows for better decision making, while being more intentional with day to day tasks. Learning to make choices based upon personal values and intuition reduces stress, and fatigue.
Meditation & Movement
Release the stagnant energy in your body by pairing intentional breath with movements that are scientifically discovered to target places where our emotions are held. Breathing deep, while spending time in nature, is a simple way to get in tune with your senses, bringing self-awareness and more intentional action.
“The best way to take care of the future is to take care of the present moment.” ― Thich Nhat Hanh
Hart, P. (n.d.). What Is the Mind-Body Connection? | Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing. Www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu; University of Minnesota. Retrieved April 17, 2024, from
https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/what-is-the-mind-body-connection#:~:text=W e%20can%20have%20emotional%20reactions
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