How our Mind Effects our Body
Stress, Relaxation, & Diseases
The intermingling of our mind and body may cause the development of either psycho-somatic or somato-psycho ailments.
In psycho-somatic ailments, stress that lingers for a long time, may have a very negative effect on our body. Since stress reduces the function of the immune system (For more information go to: Does Anxiety Contribution to Survival?), microorganisms may overcome our weak defense system and make us sick. Stress causes many parts of our body to over work, in order to react to the threat in a "Fight or Flight reaction" mode. When stress persists, it may damage the over worked parts, and cause a variety of ailments, such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and gastrointestinal diseases. In some genetic prone diseases, such as certain types of cancer and allergies, stress may cause their early appearance at a young age.
In somato-psycho ailments, part of the body has been damaged, like due to an accident, and the recovery process may be effected by our mind. For instance, if we blame ourselves for the accident, while we hate our job and unconsciously prefer to stay sick for a long time, or if we consciously or unconsciously use our broken leg to receive attention, our recovery may be prolonged, and we may develop medical complications. On the other hand, when our mood is positive, the recovery process may be faster.
Many studies published during the past 30 years, investigated the effectiveness of Guided Imagery, Relaxation and Self Hypnosis in the treatment of many health problems. Abstract of such studies are available in www.pubmed.com .
The following is an abstract that reviews studies on the subject of the effect of relaxation on variety of diseases. It was written by Dr. Jacobs from Harvard Medical School.
Clinical applications of the relaxation response and mind-body interventions.
Jacobs GD. J Altern Complement Med. 2001;7 Suppl 1:S93-101.
Several hundred peer-reviewed studies in the past 20 years have shown that the relaxation response and mind-body interventions are clinically effective in the treatment of many health problems that are caused or made worse by stress. Recent studies show that mind-body interventions may improve prognosis in coronary heart disease and can enhance immune functioning. It is hypothesized that mind-body interventions reduce sympathetic nervous system activation and increase parasympathetic nervous system activity, and thereby restore homeostasis. Researchers have also concluded that cognitive therapy is as effective, and possibly more effective than antidepressant medication in the treatment of major depression. This report provides an overview of some studies that have shown a beneficial role of the relaxation response and cognitive restructuring in the treatment of headaches, insomnia, and cardiovascular disorders. Studies to date suggest that mind-body interventions are effective and can also provide cost savings in patient treatment. It is also clear, however, that mind-body therapies are not panaceas, and should be used in conjunction with standard medical care.
