What My Subconscious Mind Taught Me at 3.30 A.M

The body is often more powerful than the mind

Photo by Malachi Cowie on Unsplash

“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.” — Buddha

Science, especially its medical branch, has struggled to understand the mind-body relationship. There is a reluctance to give up the notion of mind-body dualism, which believes mind and body work separately.

In recent times, there has been a broad acceptance that the mind affects the body. But there is a two way connection between the two.

The gut-brain axis, the continual two-way communication between the gut and the brain has received closer attention than before. Mental stress and poor sleep can affect the digestive system. A weak gut can cause depression.

Which is more powerful? Mind or body?

It’s easier to appreciate the mind’s effect on the body than the body’s impact on the mental condition.

My recent personal experience taught me that the body can sometimes overpower the mind.

I had a fierce argument with my wife a couple days back. She had just returned after visiting her sister whose husband passed away.

I spoke some harsh words that hurt my wife badly. My attack was unprovoked based on some imaginary grievances.I don’t normally behave that way. Something overwhelmed my mind. What was it?

I believe the gut is the seat of the unconscious mind. The gut is also called a “mini brain.”

My subconscious mind sometimes alerts me when I wake up at around 3.30 a.m for a bathroom visit.

On the day of the argument with my wife, I woke up at around 3.35 a.m. I had a flash of insight. I realised why I behaved atrociously earlier in the day. The real reason was fatigue.

When we are extremely tired or hungry, we lose our sense of control. Bodily sensations hijack the mind.

My wife was absent for about 10 days as she went to visit her grieving sister. I had to do all the household work. I was physically exhausted. I had become weaker after developing an allergy condition. I reduced my food intake fearing an allergic reaction. I am nearing 70 and my body can no longer handle strenuous physical activity.

When I argued with my wife, my weak physical condition compromised my mental restraint and I spoke harsh words that I wouldn’t normally use.

My body conquered my mind. In a moment of weakness, the body proved it was more powerful than the mind.

Good physical health promotes mental well-being. A tired body weakens the mind too.

A weak body takes the mind hostage.

Take care of the body for optimal mental function.

Thanks for reading!