“Mind over matter.” That phrase is attributed to Sir Charles Lyell who first wrote about it in 1863 in his book The Geological Evidence of the Antiquity of Man. Since then it’s been used in many contexts by many people (including Mao Zedong) and the meaning has changed many times over. Today, while we still use the phrase, its meaning is more like mind and matter. The connection between your thoughts and your body isn’t just philosophical anymore. It’s real, it’s biological. The fact is that your body is always listening to what your mind is saying.

Every thought you have sends signals through your nervous system that influence how your body functions. Positive, empowering thoughts can help your body perform at its best. Negative, fearful, or stressful thoughts can do the opposite.

The Connection

Your brain and nervous system are in constant communication with every organ, tissue, and cell in your body. When you have a stressful thought your body reacts as if there’s a real threat. So, if you walk around with toxic thoughts in your head like “I’m not good enough” or even just “I’m never going to get this all done,” your body is hearing that fear and negativity and acting accordingly.

What do I mean by “acting accordingly?” Your heart rate increases, breathing becomes shallow, muscles tense, and stress hormones like cortisol flood your system. This type of response was designed to help you survive danger, so it serves a specific purpose. It was not, however, intended to be a response to your daily commute or email overload. But it does.

When those stress responses are on repeat, day after day, of course they begin to wear you down. You feel it physically, mentally, and emotionally, and that’s not good.

The Power of Positive 

In contrast, when you think supportive, confident, or grateful thoughts, your body responds in kind. Your heart rate steadies, your muscles relax, and your digestion improves. Your brain releases the “feel good” hormones dopamine and serotonin.

When that happens, your immune system strengthens, your energy increases, and your cells literally function better. It might sound like magic, and in a way it is. It’s the physiology of optimism and peace.

Your Nervous System

Your nervous system is the bridge between your thoughts and your body. It’s how your mind communicates with every part of you.

Here’s what most people don’t realize: If that communication is blocked or distorted due to stress, poor posture, injury, or misalignment, your body can stay “stuck” in a stress response. And it won’t matter if your thoughts are calm. That’s why chiropractic care is so powerful. By keeping your spine aligned and your nervous system clear with regular chiropractic care, you help your body respond appropriately to your thoughts, rather than overreacting to them. When your nervous system is balanced, your body can shift out of stress more easily. You’ll be able to recover faster and operate at a higher level of performance and well-being.

Think Better, Live Better

Obviously, it’s not possible to control every thought that pops into your head. However, you can choose which thoughts you let grab hold of you. Now is the time to start paying attention to your inner dialogue. Notice how your body feels when you’re stressed versus when you’re calm, grateful, or excited.

Then support that mind/body connection by:

• Moving your body daily. You don’t have to hit the gym. Even walking or moving to your favorite song will provide stress release.
• Get adjusted regularly. Your chiropractor will keep your nervous system clear and adaptable, regardless of your age.
• Breathe deeply and often. It’s the last thing many of us think about, but deep breathing tells your brain you’re safe.
• Practice gratitude. Nothing shifts your body’s chemistry so quickly.

Your Thoughts Create Your 100 Year Lifestyle

Longevity isn’t just about how long you live. It’s about how well you live. Who wants to add more stress-filled years to their life when you don’t have to? Your thoughts are powerful tools for health, healing, and happiness. Use them.

Alignment is key. When you align your thoughts, your body, and your lifestyle, every cell, every organ, and every system works together toward your highest potential.

If you could use a little help on your journey, find a 100 Year Lifestyle provider near you to help you on your journey!