Stephanie Moreland
Professional Writer & Photographer

The mind/body connection is a common theme in my life these days. As I'm typing this message, I sit at my computer with a rash that is running up and down both sides of my legs. The worst part is that this rash is probably a side effect from an antibiotic that I've been taking to get over a horrible sinus infection or virus that has plagued me for almost ten days. In addition to this, I'm trying to keep my mind clear and my eyes open to type this entry because I had to take a Benadryl to get rid of the rash. So, to sum it all up: I'm taking a Benadryl to get rid of the rash that's caused by the medication that I have to take as a result of the sinus infection that I can't get rid of. See something wrong with this picture? Now, before you stop reading this because you think I just want a sounding board for my health problems, please hear me out.

I believe that the mind/body connection is stronger that what most humans are giving it credit for, and I believe that this might be a reason why I continue to have some illnesses. I have spent the last year experiencing major changes in my life- trips to Europe, changes in jobs and careers, financial struggles, and a brand new relationship. I have also spent the last year getting over one infection- usually of the ear, nose, and throat variety- only to move onto another one. In addition to this, I'm constantly plagued with stomach problems, often due to my less than ideal eating habits, but pesky nonetheless. Although on the whole I don't feel stressed out most of the time, I have experienced a lot of change in a short period of time, and a lot of stress--both good and bad. I cringe at the phrase, "health problems". It conjures up images with pale and green-looking faces and IV needles sticking out of arms. But I must acknowledge that what I am experiencing are "health problems". I have to be honest with myself and finally admit, "I am not very healthy right now." As someone who enjoys exercise, has practiced yoga for years, and enjoys learning about health related issues, it is difficult for me to admit that. But, it's time for me to take responsibility for my health, and I believe that many people are suffering in the same way these days.

Recently, I finished a book by Michael Crichton called Travels. Although a good part of the book deals with what the title states, he delves deeply into the subject of the mind/body connection. For those that don't know, Crichton finished medical school (supporting himself financially by writing thrillers like the famous Andromeda Strain) only to leave the medical profession to become a writer. A common theme in his book is the power of the mind and the strength of the mind and body connection. He talks extensively about the growing recognition that exploring the mind and body connection is gaining momentum in present day. This explains why the practice of yoga seems to be taking the Western world by storm---at least I hope. Yoga and meditation focus on the idea of quieting the mind, letting go of stress, and re-training your brain to think with compassion and positive energy. I must say that Mr. Crichton, famous best-selling author of novels, screenplays, and television shows, is also quite the thought-provoking guy when it comes to the mind and body connection, and I must say that I agree with most of what he says---especially about the mind having a lot of control over the physical body.

Although I have only witnessed a part of the power of what yoga can do, I have decided that it's time to see what else I can discover what else yoga can do for me--or what I can do for yoga. I feel that the antibiotics, antinflamitories, antihistamines, and antacid medications are only a band-aid that's half-covering the issues that are really going on in my body. Although I have no documented proof of this, I am willing to go on this journey with an open mind---one that I hope can be retrained to harness the best energy possible. Hopefully, this will help me overcome some of these health issues and move on to other things, or at least help decrease the number of doctors visits.

After a diagnostic session with an instructor, I have signed up for 100 days with the Dahn Yoga Center (www.DahnYoga.com ). I will be attempting to track my progress, feelings, thoughts, and physical responses to this program. I am optimistic that this will be a successful step towards ensuring my physical health, emotional well-being, and sharpening my conscious mind so that I can live a long and creative life. Wish me luck. Namaste.