Mindbody practices can reduce anxiety and improve mood from "summary" of The Happiness Diet by Tyler G. Graham,Drew Ramsey, M.D.
Engaging in mindbody practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can have a profound impact on our mental well-being. These practices work by calming the mind and reducing stress, which in turn can help alleviate anxiety and improve mood. By focusing on our breath, movement, and present moment awareness, we can cultivate a sense of peace and relaxation that can carry over into our daily lives. When we are anxious or stressed, our bodies release cortisol and other stress hormones that can wreak havoc on our physical and mental health. Mindbody practices help to counteract this by activating the body's relaxation response, which can lower cortisol levels and reduce the symptoms of anxiety. This can lead to a sense of calm and tranquility that can improve our overall mood and outlook on life. In addition to reducing anxiety, mindbody practices can also help improve our mood by increasing the production of feel-good neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals play a crucial role in regulating our mood and emotions, and by engaging in activities that promote their release, we can experience an uplift in our spirits and a greater sense of well-being. Furthermore, mindbody practices can help us become more in tune with our bodies and emotions, allowing us to better understand and manage our feelings. By learning to listen to our bodies and respond to their needs, we can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion that can contribute to a more positive mood and emotional state.- Incorporating mindbody practices into our daily routine can be a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and improving mood. By taking the time to nurture our minds and bodies through these practices, we can cultivate a sense of peace, balance, and joy that can enhance our overall happiness and well-being.
