How Your Body and Mind Mirror Each Other

How Your Body and Mind Mirror Each Other

Have you ever noticed that when you’re stressed, you might feel it in your shoulders or your stomach? Or when you’re feeling down, it’s harder to get out of bed or find the energy to move? There’s a reason for this, our mental and physical health are more closely linked than we often realize. In Hermetic philosophy, this connection is known as the Principle of Correspondence, summarized as “As above, so below.” It’s a simple but powerful idea: what happens in one part of us reflects in another.

and how understanding it can help you feel better in both body and mind.

Imagine you’re in a great mood. You’re excited about the day, maybe smiling at strangers or feeling inspired. Your body is likely more relaxed, and you might even feel physically lighter. Now think of the opposite, a stressful or sad day. You’re probably hunched over, maybe feeling tightness in your muscles, and carrying physical tension. Your mind affects how your body feels, and vice versa.

• Stress Hormones: When we’re mentally stressed, our body releases cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that prepare us to “fight or flee.” But over time, this response creates muscle tension, weakens our immune system, and makes us feel physically exhausted. McEwen, 2004

• The Gut-Brain Connection: Ever had “butterflies” in your stomach before a big event? That’s your brain talking to your gut. Scientists call this the “gut-brain axis,” and it shows that our gut health and mental state influence each other. Mayer & Tillisch, 2011 Anxiety, for example, can lead to digestive issues, while eating certain foods can improve or worsen our mood.

• Body Language: Our mental state affects how we carry ourselves. When we’re sad, we might slump; when we’re happy, we stand taller. This body language feeds back into how we feel emotionally, creating a cycle. APA, 2017

Taking Small Steps for Better Health

Understanding how our physical and mental health are connected gives us tools to improve both. Here are some simple steps to start feeling better:

You don’t need to run a marathon to feel the benefits of physical movement. Even a short walk can release endorphins (your brain’s natural feel-good chemicals), reduce stress, and help you think more clearly. Harber & Sutton, 1984 Just a few minutes of stretching can release physical tension, which translates to less mental stress.

(I know, again with the food!) The food we eat directly affects our mood. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseed, and walnuts) are known to boost mood and reduce anxiety. Grosso et al., 2014 Leafy greens, berries, and nuts are also great for brain health. It’s not about being perfect—just adding a few healthy options can make a big difference.

When we’re stressed, we tend to breathe shallowly, which actually makes us feel more anxious. Try a simple breathing exercise: inhale for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for four. This activates the body’s relaxation response, reducing mental and physical tension.

How you sit or stand can affect your mood. Next time you’re feeling down, try sitting up straighter or relaxing your shoulders. Small shifts in posture can lead to big shifts in mindset. APA, 2017

It’s hard to feel mentally well when we’re physically exhausted. Sleep is essential for brain health, helping to process emotions, store memories, and regulate stress. The general advice to aim for 7-8 hours is great, but pretty general. If you can, try to see what your circadiam type is and follow that, see if that makes a difference or not? Otherwise a quick simple step to improve sleep is to try to create a bedtime routine that helps you unwind. - Yes, that means NO DOOM SCROLLING in bed! Make it a point to do all of your electronic reading (blue light shielding or not) outside the bedroom.

Why This Matters

The Principle of Correspondence reminds us that we’re whole beings, not just a mind or a body. Taking care of one aspect of ourselves whether that’s mental, or physical inevitably supports the other. So next time you’re feeling low, try moving your body or practicing a few minutes of deep breathing. Likewise, if you’re physically tired or tense, consider looking at what’s been on your mind lately. This mutual care for both body and mind creates a cycle of well-being.

With simple changes, we can harness this connection to feel more balanced, resilient, and energized in everyday life. Understanding this principle isn’t about doing everything perfectly but about making small, mindful adjustments that lead to a better, healthier you.

Final Thoughts

Remember, your physical health and mental health are constantly communicating. By paying attention to one, you’re supporting the other. The Principle of Correspondence is about seeing the whole picture. When we embrace this, we can make choices that support our well-being from all angles, making each day a bit brighter and each challenge a bit easier to handle.

Keep in mind, this is just one way the Principle of Correspondence can influence our daily lives. There are countless ways to explore and apply these timeless ideas in practical, meaningful ways. If you’re intrigued by this topic, be sure to check back regularly for more insights and examples to deepen your understanding and enrich your journey!