Your body keeps score
Emotional wellness
As we approach the end of 2023 (whoa), it’s time for an honest check-in—a moment to pause and reflect. Was your year one of emotional turbulence or triumph? And how did that manifest in your physical body (health and harmony or imbalance and inflammation)?
In pondering these questions, you’ll recognize the profound connection between our emotions and physical well-being. They’re tightly wound. Ultimately, if we prioritize nurturing our emotional well-being, we can unlock the powerful connection between mind and body. In turn, we can welcome a happier, healthier 2024.
Without further ado, we’re digging into the two-way street between our emotions and our organs. As you’ll come to learn, the body truly keeps the score.
The body-mind connection: your body keeps the score
Renowned psychiatrist and author, Bessel van der Kolk, coined the phrase ”The Body Keeps the Score," highlighting how our emotional experiences and stressors can leave a lasting mark on our physical health. It's a reminder that our bodies aren’t separate vessels—they’re deeply intertwined with our emotional and mental states.
Stress and its ripple effect
For most of us, stress is a familiar companion. And unfortunately, the end of the year often brings its own specific stressors: hectic schedules, project deadlines, and dynamic togetherness. From family gatherings to holiday planning, overwhelm is practically knocking at the door. And when we don't acknowledge and process these emotions, they take a toll on our bodies.
In turn, the stress response—which is vital for our survival—becomes chronic, leading to various health issues. I.e hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and a weakened immune function.
The emotional toll on your organs
With that in mind, let's delve deeper into the impact of unresolved emotions on specific organs:
- Heart: Long-term stress and emotional turmoil can increase the risk of heart disease. It's no coincidence that heartache and heart health share the same word.
- Stomach and digestive system: Anxiety and emotional stress can lead to digestive problems, including IBS and ulcers.
- Lungs: Grief and sadness can weigh heavily on the chest, potentially contributing to respiratory issues, like asthma.
- Skin: Unresolved emotions can manifest as skin conditions, exacerbating issues such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis.
- Immune system: Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses.
Embracing emotional wellness
But good news! Understanding the connection between emotions and physical health empowers us to take control of our well-being. Below are practical steps to foster emotional wellness as the year comes to a close:
- Self-awareness. Start by recognizing and acknowledging your emotions. Journaling, for a few minutes every morning and every evening, can be a powerful tool for this.
- Seek support. Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional to process your emotions.
- Mindfulness and meditation. These practices can help you manage stress and develop emotional resilience. To get started, try this emotional resilience meditation.
- Physical activity. It’s no secret that regular exercise releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce stress.
- Proper nutrition. Eating a balanced diet, rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, can positively impact your emotional health and the health of your organs. Try to limit ultra-processed foods, excess sugar, and saturated fats to reduce the risk of organ-related diseases.
- Adequate sleep. Quality sleep is essential for emotional and physical well-being, including optimal organ function.
Tapping
After our incredibly inspiring conversation with Jessica Ortner, co-founder of The Tapping Solution, we have become tapping fans! Tapping is a form of meditation that uses words combined with movement and meridian points to help create calm. Tapping has even been shown to support our overall health and well-being. Here are some free meditations to get started.
Some of our favorites from the week
One of our favorite afternoon snacks! Matcha tea, berries, and dark chocolate – nourishing for the mind, body, and soul.
Looking for a crowd-pleasing snack to serve this holiday season? Try these Prosciutto Apricot Hors d'Oeuvres!
Eating for organ health
Wondering what foods support specific organs? We’ve got you covered.
Heart health: Eat plenty of colorful fruits, veggies, and 100% whole grains. Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Liver health: Consume foods that support liver detoxification, such as cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower), beets, and garlic. Stay hydrated to help flush toxins from the body. Limit processed and fried foods—alcohol, too.
Kidney health: Stay well-hydrated. Consume foods and drinks rich in antioxidants, such as green tea and turmeric. Also, prioritize fiber.
Brain health: Include foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, dark leafy greens, and dark chocolate. Fatty fish, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids, are great for brain function. Most importantly, eat a balanced diet to support stable blood sugar levels.
Gut health: Consume high-fiber foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables to support gut bacteria. Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Avoid excessive consumption of highly processed or sugary foods. Stay hydrated to aid digestion.
Lung health: Enjoy foods rich in antioxidants like vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers) to support lung function.
Eye health: Foods high in vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes) support vision! Additionally, load up on dark leafy greens, eggs, and foods with lutein and zeaxanthin (leafy greens and egg yolks) to protect against age-related macular degeneration. Lastly, omega-3 fatty acids can also benefit eye health!