Lesson 2: The Mind-Body Connection
Mental and physical health are deeply connected. When we experience stress, our nervous system activates the fight, flight, or freeze response, which prepares the body to deal with danger.
Physical health factors — including sleep quality, diet, and exercise — strongly influence mental wellbeing. For example, research shows poor sleep can worsen anxiety and depression symptoms.
Practices such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and physical activity help regulate the nervous system and improve mental health (Hölzel et al., 2011).
By understanding how our mind and body interact, we can develop healthier habits and better manage mental health challenges.
Resources & References:
- Hölzel, B.K., et al. (2011). How Does Mindfulness Meditation Work? Proposing Mechanisms of Action From a Conceptual and Neural Perspective. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 6(6), 537–559.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26168376/ - The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
https://www.amazon.com.au/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
