Learning and understanding how the body functions can be a little overwhelming. It is such an intricate and complex system, which we could marvel over for years. There are so many layers within our body; these include 12 major systems that are necessary to sustain life. Their function reflects their names; cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, immune, integumentary (skin), lymphatic, muscular, nervous, reproductive, respiratory, skeletal and urinary.
To put it simply, our body is our true home. It houses us where ever we go, it is our corporeal vehicle and our primary residence. Many people take the health of their mind and body for granted. And it’s not until adversity hits that the shock of illness or poor health scares people into a complete re-assessment of what’s important to them in life.
The latest research in epigenetics (the study of gene expression) suggests that it’s the environment that signals the gene and determines whether healthy or unhealthy expression is occurring. This means if we can nourish ourselves with healthy foods and thoughts – practise embracing feelings of gratitude and love, exercise regularly, surround ourselves with loving caring people, minimise our stress levels, and immerse ourselves in nature – then we have a much better chance of a balanced, healthy body with strength and high resistance to disease, illness or poor health.
Constant external stressors have a huge impact on the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis. Most unwanted diseases, illnesses, pain, acute or chronic conditions, originate from suppressed or unexpressed emotion, perceived stress, fear, chronic low grade stress or trauma stored from the past.
Our thoughts create the chemistry in our mind, which then dictates the biology of the body. Especially those running behind the scenes in the subconscious mind. (According to cognitive neuroscientists, we are conscious of only about 5% of our mental activity, so most of our decisions, actions, emotions, and behaviour depends on the 95% of brain activity that goes beyond our conscious awareness.) These thoughts signal the release of appropriate neurotransmitters or chemical messengers which then commands action in the body. The body’s internal landscape includes all 12 systems, which will either influence harmony and a healthy biology or increase dysfunction. Dysfunction shows symptoms of imbalance, illness and dis-ease with a compromised immune system and poor health.
In conclusion, if we can first become conscious of our thoughts, this will allow us to change our perception of the external world into a less fear based mindset and more into being present and grateful for what we have. Cultivating this kind of awareness is the first step to making improvements to your health.