by Malinda Fasol, PhD
Reading time: 1 min
Healthy Mind:
Our thoughts are powerful, and can impact our mood and behavior. According to Dr. Daniel Amen, when we have positive thoughts (ie; kind, joyful, hopeful), our bodies release chemicals that help calm our deep limbic system and calm our bodies. We tend to think clearer, have a positive outlook, and are able to view other options, solutions, or possibilities. Our thoughts and emotions are proactive rather than reactive. Scripture is clear about what we are to think on: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8 NIV). Additionally, the body tends to reflect a healthy mind. We relax our muscles, smile more often, and breathe slower. We are more aware of nutrition and exercise. We tend to respect the temple in which God has given us.
In counseling, the clients typically demonstrate faulty or distorted thinking. Their minds are clouded with countless thoughts assumed to be true. Their emotions, behaviors, and physical well-being reflect negative thinking. Every time we have negative thoughts, the brain releases chemicals to the deep limbic system that cause the body to feel bad (Amen,2003). They feel depressed or anxious, engage in unhealthy behaviors, and display muscle tension. Through cognitive therapy and other techniques, counselors help clients examine distorted thinking, core beliefs, and identify common themes or messages. Clients learn to replace faulty or negative thinking with positive thoughts. As counselors, we need to also address the clients’ physical well-being by educating them on proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, and proper breathing.
Healthy Mind and Body - part II
Our thoughts are powerful, and can impact our mood and behavior. According to Dr. Daniel Amen, when we have positive thoughts (ie; kind, joyful, hopeful), our bodies release chemicals that help calm our deep limbic system and calm our bodies. We tend to think clearer, have a positive outlook, and are able to view other options, solutions, or possibilities. Our thoughts and emotions are proactive rather than reactive. Scripture is clear about what we are to think on: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8 NIV). Additionally, the body tends to reflect a healthy mind. We relax our muscles, smile more often, and breathe slower. We are more aware of nutrition and exercise. We tend to respect the temple in which God has given us.
In counseling, the clients typically demonstrate faulty or distorted thinking. Their minds are clouded with countless thoughts assumed to be true. Their emotions, behaviors, and physical well-being reflect negative thinking. Every time we have negative thoughts, the brain releases chemicals to the deep limbic system that cause the body to feel bad (Amen,2003). They feel depressed or anxious, engage in unhealthy behaviors, and display muscle tension. Through cognitive therapy and other techniques, counselors help clients examine distorted thinking, core beliefs, and identify common themes or messages. Clients learn to replace faulty or negative thinking with positive thoughts. As counselors, we need to also address the clients’ physical well-being by educating them on proper nutrition, exercise, sleep, and proper breathing.
Healthy Mind and Body - part II
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