As humans, we usually feel immediate changes in our body the minute we experience a shift in our emotional state– such as when we feel anger or joy. The undeniable connection between our mind and body manifests in our physical state and eventually affects our health. One example that is familiar to most of us is how one stressful event can make us more susceptible to illness such as heart attack or skin conditions.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where an intense feeling, such as nervousness, has made you sweat out or weakened your knees? Perhaps it’s that similar feeling when you prepare for the first date you’ve had in years and notice your insides get all tingly.
In Skin Deep, a book written by Dr. Ted Grossbart, it states that the feelings we failed to protect ourselves from, urges our skin to speak an emotional language of its own consisting of rashes or breakouts. However, while these diseases aren’t all directly caused by traumas and mental stresses, emotions are factors in skin problems and should be recognized to reduce symptoms.
Healing a mind-body disconnection
- Give yourself time
Aside from being patient with how your body and skin changes and recovers, literally taking the time for yourself helps repair the disconnect in your mind and body. While practicing skin care is a form of self-care, the latter is done in many ways as long as it increases your energy. Meditation and self-hypnosis is also recommended as it can help you enter a relaxed state and allow your mind to focus on positive goals and thoughts which is helpful in dealing with illnesses.
- Give others your time
According to Dr. Grossbart, illnesses which can alter one’s appearance, such as acne, can cause extreme shame and isolation. We’ve seen how skin conditions force us into seclusion and loneliness, but giving into these thoughts is not the answer to our skin’s healing journey. Having social connections is essential in maintaining good mental and physical health. And during the times your symptoms worsen, the words you’ll need to hear are from sympathetic friends.
- Get Professional Help
There are cases where some still feel unwell despite practicing self-care or receiving support from family and friends. Reaching out to professionals for help is advisable, especially if you’re struggling with a mental or physical health problem. Psychodermatologist, psychologist, and dermatologist are found online, and they can provide the treatment best suited for your needs.
One important thing to realize whenever you experience health issues or have symptoms of skin conditions is that these are normal. The way our emotions respond to the changes in our body is also normal. However, we must focus on getting to know ourselves, feelings, body, and control the psychological factors that can aggravate diseases. The mind and body connection is more powerful than we think. It is our responsibility to recognize the language it speaks to care for ourselves and our skin better.
