Meditation, Digestion and Mental Health
When our microbiome doesn’t function properly, our body and mind notice – and we suffer the consequences – inflammation, indigestion, digestive disorders like IBS and IBD – and mental health issues including depression.
The link between stress, gut health and gastrointestinal disorders is now well-known and the complex systems involved are now much better understood.
The gut-brain axis is based on a complex system which includes the Vagus nerve. It’s a two-way biochemical signalling system that happens between the neurons in the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. This involves the gut microbiota – a complex network of interactions that regulate digestive processes, mood and health. The human gut microbiome produces neuroactive compounds such as serotonin which affect mood and cognitive functioning.
Practices that stimulate or relax these complex systems can influence the tone of the Vagus nerve through the mind-body feedback loop, aiding digestion and alleviating anxiety-related digestive issues.
The gut-brain axis is a two-way process – in the same way gut health can impact the brain, the brain’s activity can affect the gut microbiome too. It can be a vicious circle with stress causing digestive upsets – and indigestion causing more stress – meditation can break this circle by soothing the microbiome.
Researchers who studied Tibetan monks found that regular meditation can improve gut health by regulating the microbes found there. Experts say meditation can also help with food digestion, immune system response, and overall mental health.
Meditation naturally stimulates the Vagus nerve and techniques such as altering the rhythm of breathing, practising mindful body awareness, yoga – and music – gently balance body and mind.
Gut health is so much more than what you eat – it’s sleep, work-life balance, exercise, being in nature, relaxation – and meditation.
10 ways to strengthen your microbiome:
- Eat more vegetables
- Eat less meat
- Savour the taste of natural organic foods
- Cut out sugar and processed foods
- Eat probiotics – eg yogurt and other fermented foods like pickles
- Eat natural prebiotics – eg onions, garlic, seeds and nuts, green tea
- Avoid antibiotics
- Set a regular sleep routine
- Enjoy fresh air and exercise
- Make time for meditation and mindfulness
#meditation #digestion #MentalHealth