Strengthen Your Mind-Body Connection

Our minds and body are connected, every time we have a thought, we set off a cascade of reactions in our nervous system that influence all the molecules in our body. Our cells are constantly observing our thoughts and being changed by them. Understanding the mind body connection allows us to have an affect not only on our mental and emotional states but alleviate physical symptoms as well. Here are a few tips that make it easy to relieve stress, find joy in the simple things in life and experience physical and emotional health and wellness.

Meditate:  This can be as simple as committing to driving to work without the radio. Tune into how you feel in your body, be present and aware of physical sensations. Notice what thoughts come up and how they make you feel. Step out of “automatic pilot” to bring awareness to what you are doing, thinking, seeing and sensing in this moment.

Breathe: Deliberate breathing has been proven to reduce anxiety, depression, provide mental clarity and a natural feeling of well-being. You are always breathing, so why not breathe in a way that nourishes your body and mind? Here is an easy and effective breathing exercise. Breathe in slowly and deeply for 9 seconds, hold your breath for 6 seconds, breathe out slowly for 9 seconds and hold it for three seconds. Do 6 repetitions 2 times each day, morning and night, or whenever you feel you could use some extra support.

Stretch!  Physical and emotional toxins are stored inside your muscles and are released when you stretch! Quiet your mind, connect to your body and feel the sensation as you stretch. Yoga is wonderful AND so is 3 minutes of stretching before you run out to wake up the kids! YouTube has lots of 3 to 5-minute stretch routines if you need some creative ideas. Do your best to stretch in the morning and evening. Stretching also releases natural dopamine and serotonin, no wonder it is addicting!

Here are a few other ideas that are easy and can strengthen your mind-body connection:

Hot baths – walking in nature – spending time playing with an animal – cooking (for fun) – listening to a guided meditation – sitting outside and watching the clouds – staring at a flickering candle.