Is a Strong Mind or Body More Important for Your Health?
Does your outlook dictate your health or is what we do with our body – the way we move and exercise – more important? We trawled through the science to find out.
The Numbers
Mind
78% – The proportion of studies in a peer review that linked high levels of mental toughness to sporting achievement.
Body
31% – Studies into athletic performance suggest genetic factors underlie a significant percentage of our physical differences.
Close to Heart
Mind
A Harvard study of 103,486 people found that those with a glass-half-full disposition had a 22% lower chance of high blood pressure. Look on the bright side.
Body
An American Journal Of Hypertension study found 60 to 90 minutes of cardio per week reduced hypertension in sedentary people, after which the benefits levelled out.
Force of Will
Mind
It’s been theorised that supplying extra glucose to the brain can ‘restock’ willpower levels. But a PNAS study found this only works if you believe that it does.
Body
On the other hand, an animal study in the PLOS One journal found that a diet high in junk foods may cause a rise in impulsive decision-making.
The Big Benefits
Mind
Focusing the mind:
Reduces anxiety
Lowers heart rate
Improves sleep
Controls pain
Body
Moving the body:
Boosts heart health
Burns calories
Improves mobility
Reduces liver fat
Muscle Memory
Mind
80% – Around four in five people were able to improve muscle activation during workouts with positive self-talk, in one Italian study.
Body
33 – But the gym builds your mind, too. A review of 33 clinical trials in the journal AMA Psychiatry found that weight training curbs depressive symptoms.
Food for Thought
Mind
A study in the journal Current Addiction Reports found that a regular mindfulness practice ‘reduces subjective cravings... and unhealthy eating’.
Body
A diet rich in fruit and vegetables was linked with a happier outlook by a study in the International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health.
The MH Verdict: Body Wins!
While the power of mind over matter is clearly scientifically valid, you can’t out-think
poor lifestyle habits. Develop a healthy routine first: good nutrition, daily movement,
fresh air – and a brighter outlook is more likely to follow.
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