|
Perhaps the most famous statement in the history of philosophy and medicine is Rene Descartes’ famous phrase, “I think; therefore, I am.” This perception still has influence today; it is the foundation of the belief that the brain does not affect the body. We now have convincing evidence that thinking (cognition) significantly affects feelings (emotions), which in turn affects our body’s stress.
Circumstances present problems or challenges—depending on our perspective. Up close, the earth looks flat; from outer space, it’s round. The difference is in the perspective. Similarly, without our being mindful of what is happening, we create our own perception that often leads to stress.
The effects of stress on the body can be the cause of headaches, weight gain, insomnia, asthma, heart disease, ulcers, depression, migraine headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and many others harmful effects on the immune system, digestive system, and central nervous system. In addition, a growing body of evidence points to stress as a contributing factor as to whether these develop in the first place because stress damages neurons in the brain.
Anticipation or anxiety can lead to stress. The human mind is so powerful, the connection between perception and physiological response so strong, that the brain can send off the flight, fight, or freeze response by merely imagining a threatening situation. This ability of the brain can be either a source of positive empowerment or it can be an invitation to illness.
Using the mind properly can be a significant source to healing; however, healing of the body can be frustrated by habitually returning to ineffective ways of using the mind. Ailments we typically think of as bodily can be improved by thoughts alone. This mental realm is often the locus or cause of many illnesses. A quick proof of this is the disappearance of headaches when on vacation.
|
