Image Credit: U.S. Department of Defense
Managing your health means more than just tracking your blood pressure or cholesterol. To truly feel your best, you need to care for both your body and your mind—and the connection between them is stronger than many people realize.
The Mind-Body Connection
Your body reacts to your thoughts and feelings every day. Stress can cause muscle tension, weaken your immune system, and upset your stomach. Anxiety might make it hard to sleep, leaving you tired. But positive mental health habits—like reading, staying active, and spending time with loved ones—can help your body heal and stay strong.
Managing Stress
You don’t need to eliminate stress completely, but learning to handle it well can improve your health. Simple activities like walking, journaling, or practicing yoga can lower cortisol, the hormone your body releases when stressed.
Yoga is especially helpful because it mixes movement, deep breathing, and focus to relax your body, calm your mind, and improve the quality of your sleep.
Easy Ways to Support Your Mind and Body
- Move daily: Even 10 minutes of walking, stretching, or yoga can lift your mood and reduce tension.
- Sleep well: A regular sleep schedule boosts your energy, focus, and overall health.
- Stay connected: Talking to friends and family can lower your stress and help you feel more supported.
- Unplug: Taking breaks from screens rests your mind, eyes, and neck.
- Get outside: Time in nature helps you feel more relaxed and clears your head.
Small Habits, Big Rewards
Doing these simple things regularly can improve your mood, reduce stress, and improve your mental and physical health. Remember to check with your doctor before starting any new wellness routine.
USFHP Supports Your Whole Health
At USFHP, we know that good health means caring for both your mind and body. That’s why our TRICARE Prime plan offers ways to manage your stress in healthy ways. With our free enhanced benefits, members can get reimbursed up to $250 per year for wellness activities like gym memberships or yoga classes.
Ready to strengthen the connection between your mind and body?
Visit usfhp.net or call 1-800-241-4848 to learn more or find a provider near you.