How Does Your Mind Affect Your Body?

“Wellness is a holistic integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, fueling the body, engaging the mind, and nurturing the spirit” according to the University of Maryland.

Like many of us, I’ve started to think about wellness in a drastically different way after the COVID pandemic. While I had struggled with a bit of post-partum depression, I never had any mental health struggles and any of my physical ailments seemingly had an identifiable and logical cause. But nothing can alter your belief system more than undergoing extended periods of suffering and uncertainty. 

The first time I was completely in awe of the human body and mind was having children. Never in a million years did I think I had the physical or mental fortitude to grow, and deliver a baby. I am scared of needles, blood and pretty much everything else found in a delivery room. But my body knew what to do, I just had to get my mind on board – and I did (twice!) with the help my loving husband, nurses, and doctors. 

The uncertainty and fear that came along with the COVID pandemic also ushered in a new opportunity to prove my mental stamina. But without the promise of a cute little baby, I didn’t prevail as successfully. 

Unfortunately, I experienced firsthand how the mind can create physical symptoms in the body. Although I was safe at home with the kids making craft projects, hanging in our PJs, and having dance parties, the anxiety was bubbling up in my belly like a cauldron over a hot flame. I was having almost daily headaches and nausea that wouldn’t respond to medication. After trying just about every prescription and over-the-counter drug to alleviate the symptoms, I finally gave way to the idea that there was a mental and emotional component to my physical symptoms. I wrote this article for Milwaukee Magazine after the pandemic detailing one very unpleasant, but telling experience.

We have the resources to create a healthier lifestyle. From all the books, blogs, podcasts, and other media I’ve consumed, the most important is the reduction of stress through simple habits like meditation and breath work to regulate the nervous system. Our bodies know how to heal and our brains are our most powerful allies. 

Over the next year, I’ll be exploring what wellness really means by engaging with other MAC members. Please reach out and let me know how you use the MAC for wellness, beyond just working out. What feeds your soul and what fuels your spirit? What’s the weirdest thing you’ve tried to get well? I want to hear it all!