Mind over body - the importance of the mind for positive well-being

For decades, the mind and body dualistic approach were adopted and implemented within fields likened to the medical field and even argued about within the field of psychology. This dualistic approach to such fields was geared towards providing the best forms of interventions and treatments needed to be efficient, effective practitioners and health providers.

In recent years though, some may say such fields are still dualistic in nature, with more evidence and studies emerging emphasising the importance of the mind and body connection. Further studies have revealed that though caring for the body is important to one’s well-being, the resilience of the mind is key to maintaining well-being long term.

Understanding the importance of the mind for positive well-being

1. Mind resilience in regard to physical ageing

When it comes to the importance of mental resilience, studies that are focused on the mind over time bring forth many revelations into how important the mind is. According to a study connected with the Technical University of Munich (TUM) when it came to the overall well-being of those who suffered from health issues over time, the true sign of resilience did not come solely from the care that was provided for their physical ailments, or even physical activities they were involved in to maintain health. Rather, resilience was found within their attitude about the situation and the social involvement with others going through similar struggles.

Our emotional responses to ageing, ailments, and stressors can also become unhealthy long-term. According to Guy Winch Ph.D., psychologist and author of emotional first aid, healing rejection, guilt, failure, and other everyday hurts emphasise the importance of mental resilience when dealing with various situations that we face in life.

2. Resilience of the mind in regard to physical health

Physical activity is important for all of us regardless of our age. However, as we age and face physical obstacles in life, physical activity and care become integral parts of our lives. Though staying active is very good for us, it only becomes effective and beneficial to us if it is kept up on a consistent basis.

Studies have revealed that when it comes to the overall commitment and long-term benefits of physical activity, your mind’s ability to be resilient over time provides the best chance of health habits lasting a long time.

3. Resilience of the mind in regard to our beliefs

What we believe about a situation in life or experience can mean the difference in becoming resilient to obstacles in life, especially when talking about our physical and mental health. According to Douglas Labier, Ph.D., a person’s belief about their situation, be it health related or not, can directly affect how they progress and build resilience. Dr. Labier further explained that whether we believe in a higher power, or more so interventions used and the power of said fields, belief is an important part of resilience of the mind and how we maintain long- term well-being because of this.

Final thoughts

We know that taking care of ourselves is a priority, and often times we think of caring for ourselves in the mindset of eating well and exercising often. Though this is very important in caring for our well-being, caring for our overall mindset when it comes to ourselves is just as important if we want our behaviours and healthy habits to last long-term. Remember that the mind and body connection is very important to us, and finding a way to take care of ourselves holistically can only make us more resilient and benefit us in the long run. Once this is settled within the mind, the journey towards a healthy life begins! This is not always easy, as it can be challenging to keep up.

Remember that you can go at your own pace, and as long as you keep moving forward you are bound to create a mind and body connection that lasts long-term.