Many of you at the Akasha Center know the importance of a mind-body connection. Today, I want to share a personal story that perfectly illustrates this concept. It’s a story about nerves, digestion, and the fight-or-flight response.

A Tense Welcome to America

I still vividly remember this event, even though it happened over 42 years ago. As a young man of 19, I had just landed in Miami, my first step on American soil. Having never been away from my home in Brazil, I was a bundle of nerves. My interview with a seemingly stern immigration officer only amplified my anxiety. My grasp of English was limited, and the pressure of the situation was immense.

Suddenly, a wave of physical discomfort washed over me. My hands grew clammy, my heart pounded like a drum, and a familiar churning began in my stomach. It felt like a swarm of butterflies had taken residence there, accompanied by a pressing need to use the restroom. The absolute worst time, I thought, to have such a basic human urge!

The Battle Within

This experience exemplifies the classic fight-or-flight response. Faced with a stressful situation, our bodies instinctively prepare for action. Blood rushes to our muscles, heart rate increases, and digestion comes to a halt. This is a perfectly natural response, designed to help us deal with threats.

In my case, the threat was a stern immigration officer, not a wild animal. Yet, my body reacted as if it were. Fortunately, I was able to focus on the questions and calmly explain my purpose for being in the US. Relief flooded me when I was finally allowed to proceed.

The Mind-Body Connection

This experience is a powerful reminder of how deeply our minds and bodies are intertwined. Stressful situations can trigger a cascade of physical responses, including digestive discomfort. At the Akasha Center, we teach various techniques to manage stress and promote relaxation. By calming the mind, we can help regulate the body’s response and improve overall well-being.