A holistic approach to mental health
Psychoneuroimmunology
​
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is an interdisciplinary field that studies the interaction between psychological processes (such as thoughts, emotions, and behaviors), the nervous system, and the immune system. PNI explores the bidirectional communication between the mind and the immune system, examining how psychological factors, such as stress, emotions, and mental states, can influence immune function. Conversely, it also investigates how the immune system, in turn, can impact the central nervous system and psychological well-being. Research in psychoneuroimmunology has implications for understanding the connections between mental health and physical health, as well as for developing strategies to promote overall well-being by considering the interplay between psychological and immunological factors.
Gut Health
The burgeoning field of research known as the "gut-brain axis" explores the intricate connection between gut health and psychology. This bidirectional communication system intricately involves the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. Our nutritionists offer insights into gut healing, complemented by psychological interventions that establish realistic expectations and foster lasting changes.
Breathing
Breathwork entails purposeful control and manipulation of breathing patterns for diverse objectives, demonstrating profound impacts on psychological well-being. Notably, breathing exercises play a pivotal role in developing emotional regulation skills.
Cultivating Daily Habits
Healing doesn't happen overnight and requires a daily commitment to make small but consistent changes in order to fully recover. At VitalHabits, I will be working on discovering what these changes are and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine.
Building Awareness
The prefrontal cortex, a cornerstone of the conscious mind, plays a pivotal role in higher cognitive functions. It governs executive processes like decision-making, impulse control, social interactions, and personality expression. Evidence suggests that mindfulness meditation impacts the structure and function of the prefrontal cortex. At VitalHabits, we focus on cultivating a meditation practice to enhance these cognitive functions.
Cognitive Restructuring
Our minds perpetually generate thoughts, often unconscious of the scripts shaping our mental landscape. Through self-narratives and beliefs rooted in past experiences, these mental constructs act as lenses, influencing our perception of the world and shaping our responses. At VitalHabits, I specialize in identifying and restructuring dysfunctional beliefs to align more closely with reality.
Movement
Engaging in activities like running, swimming, or hiking, where the mind and body work together in a secure environment, aids in expanding our capacity to tolerate stress. I work in collaboration with expert yoga teachers that can help build a practice, while cognitive interventions can help with reframing movements as a step to increase emotions well-being rather than being a compulsive activity to control weight.
Contact
Like what you see? Get in touch to learn more.
