International Mind Body Wellness Day 2025: How To Unlock The Connection Between Physical Health And Mental Well-Being

Discover the connection between mind and body on International Mind-Body Wellness Day, highlighting the role of diet, fitness, yoga, and mindful spaces in fostering mental health.

International Mind Body Wellness Day 2025

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International Mind-Body Wellness Day happens to be a global event dedicated to showcasing the interconnection of physical and mental states within the human. It serves as a reminder that a healthy life does not mean just the absence of a disease. Instead, it presents life as a harmonious balance between the head, heart, and body.

How Physical Health Impacts Mental Condition:

"The relationship between the mind and body is deeply interconnected and bi-directional, meaning each influences and supports the other. A healthy mental state provides the motivation and resilience needed to maintain good physical health," says Sritama Ghosh, Counselling Psychologist, Monoshij, Techno India Group.

She further explains, "Effective physical functioning, supported by the body’s systems—like the brain, nervous system, and hormones—promotes emotional balance and mental clarity. However, disruptions can lead to issues in both areas."

"A study on stress by McExen revealed that psychological states like stress trigger physical responses through the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Prolonged exposure to stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt bodily processes, increasing risks of anxiety and depression," adds Ghosh.

The Connection Between Diet and Mental Health:

Nutritional well-being encloses more than the physical aspect; it also affects mental health. According to Dr. Payel Kr. Roy, Chief Dietician and Critical Care Nutritionist at Techno India Dama Hospital and Healthcare Medical Centre, balanced nutrition has to do with emotions, energy, and mental health in general. 

She explains "If you get hungry often in the day and this affects your mood, concentration and energy levels, then eating at regular intervals is important. Eating every three to four hours is fine to prevent one’s energy levels dropping as a result of blood-sugar levels dipping,"    

"Fiber-rich foods like beans and oatmeal and certain protein sources – especially those that are high in the amino acid tryptophan, such as poultry – are also associated with higher-quality sleep," continues Dr. Roy.   

"While trying to manage a busy, hectic life, it is understandable to want to prioritise activities that provide the most benefit. Unfortunately, diet, exercise, and sleep are so deeply intertwined, it is not possible to say that one is more important than the others, so besides diet, physical activity and sleep play a very vital role in Good Mental Health," she added.

The Power Of Space, Fitness, And Yoga:

"In today’s fast-paced world, the connection between the mind and body is more relevant than ever. On International Mind Body Wellness Day, we explore how space, fitness, yoga, and diet are essential pillars in fostering mental health," says Ms. Chirashree Ghosh, Founder of Mystic Yoga.

She highlights the significance of space, fitness, yoga, and diet in fostering mental well-being:

1. Creating a Calming Space

The spaces we inhabit have a profound effect on our mental state. A clutter-free, organised environment can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Start by dedicating a corner of your home to mindfulness or relaxation. Use natural light, calming colours, and add elements like plants, soft textures, or aromatherapy. These small adjustments create a sanctuary for reflection and restoration, helping your mind find peace amid chaos.

2. Physical Activity: A Catalyst for Mental Health

Exercise is more than just physical—it’s a mental health booster. Activities like walking, swimming, or strength training release endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. Regular movement reduces anxiety and improves focus. For beginners, start small: a brisk 15-minute walk can brighten your mood and improve mental clarity. Over time, consistent activity builds resilience, benefiting both the mind and body.

3. Yoga and Meditation: Achieving Harmony

Yoga and meditation offer an unmatched synergy of physical and mental well-being. Yoga’s asanas balance the nervous system, while meditation fosters mindfulness and emotional control. Practices like pranayama (breathing techniques) reduce stress hormones and promote mental clarity. Dedicate 10 minutes daily to mindful breathing or basic yoga stretches to experience a sense of harmony and inner strength.

4. Healthy Eating for a Healthier Mind

What we eat directly affects how we think and feel. Diets rich in whole grains, fresh vegetables, nuts, and fermented foods nurture the gut-brain axis, essential for mental health. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, as they can lead to energy crashes and mood swings. Mindful eating—chewing slowly and savouring flavours—also supports better digestion and fosters a positive relationship with food.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]