Body & Mind: Building a healthy partnership

When you’re juggling a busy schedule and managing work demands, it’s important to carve out some time to care for your body and your mind. While doctors have long seen a correlation between physical and mental health, numerous studies have confirmed the importance of this link. It’s known as the mind-body connection, and nurturing it can have a big impact on our overall well-being.

When we experience stress, anxiety or negative emotions, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can affect everything from heart health to immune function. Similarly, poor physical health can impact our mental well-being. Chronic illness or pain can lead to feelings of frustration, sadness or anxiety, while getting regular exercise can boost mood and reduce stress.

What are some things I can do to de-stress?

Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Choose activities you enjoy, making exercise a sustainable part of your routine.
Eat a balanced diet: Incorporate whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats. Reduce processed foods and limit sugar intake.
Relax: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga or meditation.
Get enough sleep: Prioritize good sleep habits by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed.

Our response to stress is one of the clearest ways that mental wellness can impact our physical health. Think about the last time you felt stress. While you may have experienced building tension or racing thoughts, you likely also experienced physical reactions like increased heart rate, sweating or trouble sleeping.

While these reactions are designed to help us respond to immediate threats, chronic stress can lead to a host of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, digestive issues and a weakened immune system.

The good news is that with the right support, you can reduce or eliminate the effects of stress altogether.

Need help dealing with stress?

For information and tips on managing stress, visit the Healthy Minds section of our Healthy Living Resource Center or call the Benefit Funds’ Wellness Member Assistance Program at (646) 473-6900 for a confidential referral.