Is self-love the ultimate prescription?

If our thoughts can shape our reality, do they also have the power to shape our health?  

Stress has practically become a food group, and most of us take our morning coffee with a side of anxiety. It’s very easy to dismiss the mind-body connection, this idea that our minds and bodies are intricately connected. I struggle with it as well. But science—and every wellness guru with a yoga mat—tells us otherwise. 

The truth is that the way we physically feel often correlates with what is going on in our emotional world.

Feelings like joy, gratitude, and love release feel-good chemicals that strengthen our hearts, give us an immune boost, and maybe—just maybe—add a few more years to our lives. But feeling anxious or overthinking wreaks havoc from the inside out.

Research suggests that long-term or chronic stress triggers inflammation in our body, which in turn, is linked to higher blood pressure, lower good HDL cholesterol, and cardiovascular diseases. 

So, if our thoughts are this powerful, could self-love be the ultimate prescription for a healthier life? 

Of course, the mind-body connection isn’t about suggesting that every health challenge stems from negative thinking. That would be too simple.

The body is a complex system that’s influenced by various factors—genetics, environment, access to healthcare, and yes, our thoughts and emotions. The invitation here is to recognize that our mindset is an important piece of the wellness puzzle, and one that we have more control over.

The next time you feel overwhelmed, try this: pause and take three deep breaths to help ease your mind. You can also place one hand on your heart and one on your belly for a more mindful breathing.

Awareness is the first step toward change, and sometimes, the most powerful self-care act begins with how gentle we are to ourselves.

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