In simple language, it is about how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence bodily functions and vice versa. Far from being merely theoretical, the mind–body connection is a proven and observable phenomenon that plays a critical role in our overall wellbeing (Hanley et al., 2017).

In studying this connection, researchers have found that physical conditions can shape our mental state, contributing to mood disorders or cognitive challenges (Merikangas et al., 2015).

More recently, studies have found that conditions such as chronic illnesses, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and even gut health disruptions influence mood, exacerbate anxiety and depression, and impact cognitive function (Herselman & Bobrovskaya, 2023; Sonali et al., 2022).

These effects also work in the other direction. States such as stress, joy, and anxiety can trigger biochemical responses that affect immune function, heart rate, digestion, and even pain perception (Nahid & Alipoor, 2022; Ishikawa & Furuyashiki, 2021).

For more about the mind–body connection in psychology, have a look at Therapy in a Nutshell’s great explanatory video.

The understanding of the mind–body connection dates back to ancient civilizations (Găiseanu, 2021). In ancient Greece, Hippocrates highlighted the importance of treating the mind and body as a whole (Kleisiaris et al., 2014).

Eastern traditions, such as traditional Chinese medicine and ayurveda, have a long history of practicing holistic approaches to health (Johnson et al., 2024). They recognize the intricate interplay between mental and physical states (Fogaça et al., 2021).

In the West, dualistic perspectives dominated for centuries (Gendle, 2016). We can, in large part, thank Descartes’s theory of mind–body dualism for this misguided approach to health care (Ventriglio & Bhugra, 2015).

This perspective shifted during the 20th century as emerging scientific research began to validate the interconnectedness between mental and physical health (Hernandez et al., 2018). Let’s take a look at what the research is telling us now and how that is shaping theories in health care.