EMOTIONAL-PHYSICAL HEALTH CONNECTION: EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF EMOTIONS ON WELL-BEING

Abstract

The interplay between emotions and physical health has profound implications for overall well-being. Emotions, encompassing feelings like joy, anger, sadness, and gratitude, significantly influence physiological processes, mental states, and behavior. Positive emotions, such as happiness and gratitude, enhance resilience, improve immune function, and lower stress, promoting better cardiovascular health and mental clarity. Conversely, chronic stress and negative emotions can weaken the immune system, elevate blood pressure, and contribute to mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Effective emotional regulation, through mindfulness, cognitive reappraisal, and social support, plays a pivotal role in mitigating the adverse effects of negative emotions while enhancing the benefits of positive emotions. Additionally, cultural and social contexts shape emotional experiences, underscoring the importance of a holistic and inclusive approach to well-being. This study highlights the bidirectional nature of the emotional-physical health connection and emphasizes the need for further research to deepen understanding and inform interventions that foster resilience, vitality, and life satisfaction.