Is It All In Your Head?

I’m sure you’re familiar with the phrase “mind/body connection”, but you may now know exactly what it is. Well, in a nutshell, it refers to the manner in which your body responds to how you think and feel.

For example, you may develop high blood pressure or an ulcer during a period of prolonged mental stress. That’s a mind/body connection.

Here are eight additional physical ailments that often stem from a mental or emotional issue:

• Back pain


• Change in appetite


• Constipation or diarrhea


• Fatigue


• Headaches


• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)


• Sexual problems


• Weight gain or loss

Experts suggest that when you’re not happy or when you’re dealing with a particularly stressful situation, your immune system weakens, making it easier for you to succumb to these and other physical ailments. During times of unhappiness or mental stress you’re also less likely to get the sleep you need or to eat and exercise as you would under more normal situations. This all leads to “dis-ease” and your body can react by getting sick.

Research conducted by HeartMath has determined that people who are often irritated, angry or frustrated are more apt to develop heart disease than those who live with a more positive state of mind.

And there is a Chinese system of the “five elements” that suggests that specific negative emotions have a direct and predictable impact on a specific organ of the body, and vice versa.

In an attempt to get your emotional health in order you may want to find a trusted friend or a health or spiritual professional to speak with. You may also try meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or some other means of relaxation.

The important thing is to do something to ease the distress. Research has shown time and time again that having a positive outlook can give your health a remarkable boost and greatly improve your overall quality of life.