Caring for Our Bodies is Caring for Our Minds
The first time I meet with clients for therapy, I always inquire about current health and wellness practices, starting with physical health- annamaya kosha - just to tie it back my practice’s name.
Anyway, the simple truth is that our minds and bodies are not separate. The way we care for our bodies has a real, direct impact on how we feel emotionally, and the way we tend to our emotional world shows up in our bodies. Think about stress. When life feels overwhelming, it doesn’t just stay in our thoughts. Our shoulders may feel tense, jaw may get tight, appetite can increase or decrease, and we may have difficulty sleeping. On the other side of that, when we are well taken care of physically with adequate movement, a nutritious diet, and sufficient sleep, our minds often feel clearer, calmer, and more resilient.
Ways to Support Your Body for Your Mental Health
Here are some gentle practices you can try. It doesn’t need to be perfect, or done all at once. When it comes to self-care, some is always better than none. Small shifts do make a difference.
Move in ways that feel good
This can be a full on workout in the gym or doing your favorite exercise class. This can also be a 10 minute walk around the block or on a walking pad while taking a break from work, stretching in the morning, or dancing in your living room. Play sports, jump on a trampoline, skip instead of walk. Movement helps release tension and boosts your mood.
Nourish yourself
Stay hydrated. Eat food. This is fuel for living. Of course we ideally want quality fuel, but sometimes we just have to do what we can. Skipping meals, or relying only on caffeine can make stress and anxiety worse. Keep the fuel steady as an act of kindness to yourself.
Prioritize rest
Sometimes our relationship with rest can struggle. Life has so many demands and we can feel guilty for “doing nothing”. But rest is productive - more so if we don’t guilt ourselves for it. A solid bedtime routine can be really helpful for signaling time to slow down and make for a better night’s rest.
Breathe and reset
Slowing down to take a few deep, steady breaths can signal safety to your nervous system and bring you back into the present moment. It provides quick moment to reset, take in oxygen, and be with ourselves. I will write more on this in my next blog touching on the next kosha.
Get outside
Nature is grounding. A few minutes of fresh air or feeling the sun on our skin can shift our state of mind. If you can, step outside barefoot onto the grass to really connect.
A Gentle Reminder
Small actions add up. Choose one or two small things that feel doable. Taking care of your body does not need to be perfect. Simple actions can help build the foundation to support your whole self. When we honor the connection between our bodies and minds, we create more space for healing, balance, and peace.
If you would like support incorporating these practices into your life, therapy can be a safe place to explore what feels nourishing for you and how to build routines that truly support your wellbeing.
Ways to Reflect
Take a moment to check in with yourself:
What is one small way I could be kinder to my body this week?
Where do I notice stress or tension showing up physically?
What helps me feel most grounded and calm in my body?
