The Interdependence of Mental and Physical Health

by Deborah Dobbs, MA

Emotions continually influence our well-being. Chronic stress compromises our immune system. Highly optimistic people tend to live longer. A 2017 study by Edmondson and von Känel revealed that after a life-threatening or frightening medical event, such as a sudden heart attack or stroke, people have an increased risk of developing such high levels of psychological distress that they increase their risk of another cardiovascular event.

So…how do we leverage the mind-body connection to enhance our well-being?

Sleep, “the Swiss Army Knife of Health”
The connection between mental health and sleep is well-studied and widely known. Stress and sleep disruptions seem to go hand in hand, and, according to John Hopkins Medicine, people with insomnia may be ten times more likely to develop depression than those who get a good night’s sleep.

Sleep scientist Dr. Matt Walker describes sleep as our superpower and refers to it as “the Swiss Army Knife of health.” His extensive research reveals the wonderful benefits of sleep and the devastating effects of not getting enough. Sleep has a profound impact on virtually every aspect of our health — from our memory to our reproductive systems. Consider this fact: a man who sleeps only four to five hours a night will have the testosterone level of a man ten years his senior.

According to Dr. Walker’s research, sleep regularity could be more important than duration. Therefore, schedules are important. Another sleep expert, Dr. Michael Breus, echoes the importance of maintaining healthy sleep habits and he encourages us to add low impact exercise, like yoga or Tai Chi, to our routine.

The Power of Low Impact Exercise
In addition to promoting sleep, low-impact exercises such as yoga, Tai Chi, walking, and swimming are excellent boosters of overall health. These activities are gentle on the body, making them ideal for individuals with chronic pain or joint issues. But the benefits go beyond physical. Low impact exercises have been shown to reduce anxiety, promote mindfulness, and improve emotional regulation.

When practiced with mindfulness, even simple activities like walking or swimming can become powerful tools for managing stress and improving mental clarity. The combination of movement and mindful attention helps calm the nervous system, reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone), and promote overall well-being.

The Gut-Brain Connection
One of the most fascinating areas of research in recent years is how gut health influences mental health. For example, did you know that the gut produces more serotonin (the “feel-good” neurotransmitter) than the brain? This new understanding has led researchers to explore how the gut microbiome—the community of bacteria living in our intestines—affects mood and behavior. Altered gut microbiota has been linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Research also suggests that probiotics—healthy bacteria supplements—may help improve mental health, possibly enhancing the effectiveness of antidepressant treatments.

The gut-brain connection is a relatively new field of study, but it nonetheless encourages us to take care of our gut health. Staying hydrated, avoiding sugar, and consuming probiotics are simple ways to maintain a healthy gut and a happy brain.

Maximizing the Mind-Body Connection
By embracing the interconnectedness of our physical and mental health, we can take proactive steps to enhance our well-being. Whether through emotional healing, improving our gut health, getting quality sleep, or incorporating low-impact exercises, there are countless ways to harness the power of the mind-body connection for a healthier, more balanced life.

Deborah Dobbs, MA serves as Executive Director of The Counseling Place and has been part of the Richardson community since 1973. A published author of psychological thrillers (available on Amazon or directly from Anatolian Press LLC), she also has several screenplays in the works. Deborah loves scuba diving, fly-fishing with her husband, drinking Irish whiskey and smoking the occasional cigar. And if she loves you, she’ll cook for you.

Resources: 

Birk, Jeffrey. November 9, 2021. Psychology Today. “Do Feelings Influence Physical Health?” URL: Do Feelings Influence Physical Health? | Psychology Today
Edmondson, D., & von Känel, R. (2017). Post-traumatic stress disorder and cardiovascular disease. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(4), 320–329. doi: 10.1016/S2215-0366(16)30377-7.
“Depression and Sleep: Understanding the Connection” URL: Depression and Sleep: Understanding the Connection | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Sleep Is Your Superpower | Matt Walker | TED – YouTube
Sleep Diplomat: Professor Matt Walker PhD
Breus, Michael. January 22, 2024. SleepDoctor.com. “How Sleep Impacts Your Mental and Physical Well-Being.” URL: How Sleep Impacts Your Mental and Physical Well-Being (sleepdoctor.com)
Ergenzinger, Ed, J.D., Ph.D. August 15, 2022. PsychologyToday.com. “5 Surprising Ways Gut Health Affects Mental Health.” URL: 5 Surprising Ways Gut Health Affects Mental Health | Psychology Today United Kingdom
The Gut-Brain Connection. July 18, 2023. Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School   URL: The gut-brain connection – Harvard Health