Don’t Accept Feeling Crappy: Unlock Your Body’s Full Potential
- Mar 7
- 2 min read
by Sheena Smith
Ever feel like you’re dragging through your days, battling brain fog, low energy, or a sense that something’s just off? You might even chalk it up to the demands of life or aging, but what if there’s more at play? Your body is speaking to you, and it’s time to listen. The real key to your well-being lies in something you might not expect: your gut.
The connection between the gut and the brain—called the gut-brain axis—plays a critical role in how we feel every day. Your gut is often referred to as your “second brain” because it produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which impact your mood and energy levels. When your gut isn’t functioning well, it can throw off your mental clarity and well-being.
The Gut-Brain Axis: Why It’s a Big Deal
About 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut, so if your gut health is compromised—due to poor diet, stress, or an imbalance in your gut flora—you might feel mentally and emotionally drained. A disrupted gut- brain axis can lead to conditions like anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline.
To support this connection, it starts with food. A nutrient-dense diet rich in fiber, whole foods, and healthy fats is essential. Prebiotics (fiber that feeds good bacteria), probiotics (live beneficial bacteria), and phytobiotics (plant compounds that support gut function) can help restore gut balance and, in turn, improve mental and emotional wellness.
Beyond the Gut: The Heart-Brain Connection
There’s another key player: the heart-brain axis. Your heart has its own neural network that communicates with your brain, affecting your emotions and stress. Heart Rate Variability (HRV), which measures how well your heart adapts to stress, is linked to better mental flexibility, emotional regulation, and resilience. You can improve HRV through mindfulness, meditation, and spending time in nature.
Moving, Connecting, and Resting
Movement, social connection, and sleep are equally vital for your mental and physical health:
Movement: Physical activity supports gut health by increasing the diversity of your gut bacteria. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or strength training, movement reduces stress and improves HRV.
Social Connection: Meaningful interactions can boost oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which supports both gut and heart health.
Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for gut repair and overall mental wellness. Without enough rest, your gut- brain connection may suffer.
Mindfulness and Nature: A Natural Boost
Mindfulness—being present in the moment—has profound effects on both the gut and brain. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes gut function and reduces stress. Pair that with time in nature, and you’re supporting both gut and heart health.
Take Control of Your Well-Being
When you prioritize gut health, nourish your body, stay active, and embrace mindfulness and connection, you give yourself the chance to thrive. Quality supplements can bridge the gap, ensuring your gut has what it needs to support overall wellness.
Don’t accept feeling crappy—take charge of your gut-brain axis, nurture your heart-brain connection, and watch your energy, mood, and mental clarity soar.
Visit Sheenalsmith.com and start your journey to better health today.
Sheena L. Smith
Certified Mental Wellness Coach-Independent Amare Wellness Partner Certified Dream Builder Coach-Life Mastery Institute
Connect with Sheena
Comments