mind-body connection, on how psychology and physiology are part of one interconnected system.

The Mind and Body Are One

The first step to fulfilling our potential for physical wellbeing is to recognize the inseparable connection between mind and body. What gets in the way, however, is a widespread belief, known as dualism, that the mind and body are distinct entities.1

Why is the dualistic perspective problematic? MIT systems scientist Peter Senge wrote, “Dividing an elephant in half does not produce two small elephants.” He explains, “Living systems have integrity . . . their character depends on the whole.”2 In the same way, dividing a human being into two—into a mind and a body—does not produce two small human beings or two viable entities that we can cultivate and grow. It is an artificial separation. If we want to effect change, we need to look at the whole person. Remember, happiness is whole person wellbeing

The unity of mind and body manifests itself in various ways. For example, your thoughts and emotions influence your body—from its posture to its performance—while in turn your movements can affect your mindset and heartset. Research on the “facial feedback hypothesis” highlights this connection: Putting on a smile or frown, a kind face or an angry face, generates the emotion that we associate with the face.3