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With the demands of life, it's vital to acknowledge and reflect on a recent statement I heard from Sadia Khan on a recent podcast. She said;
"I'm really good at brushing away the anxiety, but your body keeps score of everything,"
This statement stopped me immediately and became a potent reminder of the undeniable truth we are willing to ignore: the connection between our physical and mental wellbeing. I have been guilty of this, but hearing those words made me reflect.
We must acknowledge that our bodies retain every experience, even those we try to suppress. It is a sharp reminder of a fact that many of us attempt to ignore: our bodies are inextricably linked to our mental state, and we remember everything even if we try to sweep our thoughts under the rug.
Your body is the silent observer
Let us cut out the bullshit. You can't fool your body. Don't even try. You may be doing an excellent job of managing your stress or anxieties. But here's the truth: your body meticulously records your internal struggles. Every piece of stress, sleepless night, and unresolved emotion is added up. This is the scorecard.
Physical Cost of Ignoring Emotions
Imagine your body as a quiet observer. It does not miss a beat. While you ignore your mental health, your body absorbs the effects of your emotional stress. It acts like a sponge, soaking up every ounce of tension and worry you believe you're successfully concealing. And soon, that sponge becomes filled. That's when the physical symptoms of your mental state begin to appear.
Taking Mental Health Seriously
So what is the solution? It's simple: prioritise your mental health. It is not a show of weakness to admit that you are struggling. In reality, it is a display of strength. It takes bravery to confront your demons and seek treatment.
Healthy Habits for a Strong Mind and Body
Begin by being honest with yourself about your feelings. Don't ignore tension, anxiety, or a general lack of self-esteem. Acknowledge it. Talk with someone about it. Talking to a friend or a counsellor and expressing your thoughts are the first steps towards healing. If it is troubling you and you need support, I always recommend speaking to a mental health professional.
Empowering Choices for Wellbeing
Finally, don't hesitate to adopt lifestyle adjustments that benefit your mental health. If something in your life is giving you undue stress, try making a change. For example, we all have toxic relationships; it may be time to reassess your importance on them. Your wellbeing must come first, even if it means making unpleasant decisions.
Final Thoughts
We should reflect on Khan's statement and consider it a wake-up call. We can't afford to overlook the link between our emotional and physical health. Our bodies keep score, and we need to keep the scorecard from getting too high.
Is this something you can relate to? Then, jump off the hamster wheel of life, take three deep breaths, and focus on caring for yourself, both emotionally and physically. Your body and mind will thank you for this.
Remember that strength is more than simply overcoming difficult circumstances; it is also about understanding when to slow down and care for yourself. You owe it to yourself to be as gentle with your body as you are uncompromising in your pursuit. So, instead of ignoring worry and tension, let us confront, comprehend, and overcome them. In this manner, we ensure that our bodies do more than merely keep score; we also celebrate our health and happiness achievements.