Since ancient times in the East, the body and mind have been understood as sharing the same foundation. Emotions and the physical body are not separate from one another; they are constantly influencing each other. This way of thinking is known as ShinshinIchinyo — body and mind as one.

 

Because the body and mind are deeply connected, when one begins to function well, the other may also begin to improve. Have you ever noticed that after stepping outside, feeling the fresh air, and moving your body slowly, a heavy heart begins to regain a sense of calm?　The opposite can also be true. When one becomes unsettled, the other may be affected as well. A familiar example is the relationship between stress and the stomach. When worries continue, the stomach may begin to feel heavy.

 

Shinshin Ichinyo does not see the relationship between body and mind as a simple, one-way chain of cause and effect. The influence the mind has on the body may return, through the body, to affect the mind once again. Our state of health changes through this repeated exchange: from mind to body, and from body back to mind. A concern of the mind cannot be addressed by looking at the mind alone. Nor should a concern of the body be considered only through the body.

 

The choices we make in food, daily habits, and living environment are also part of this relationship. The life we choose, in turn, influences both body and mind. When, where, with whom, and how we spend our time all relate to our state of health. Day by day, our choices gradually shape the condition of the body and mind.

 

Emotional imbalance can sometimes lead to unsatisfying sleep. A small concern may make it difficult to fall asleep. Over time, anxiety may begin to arise each time we enter bed. The harder we try to sleep, the further sleep may seem to move away. At such times, in the spirit of Shinshin Ichinyo, we may also wish to care for the body.

 

Begin simply by creating a quiet margin of time before going to bed. Once in bed, bring your awareness to the breath, and gently count each exhale.When you wake in the morning, receive the light of the sun. Morning light helps support alertness during the day and creates a clearer rhythm between day and night. It helps align the body’s internal rhythm and supports the stability of the autonomic nervous system.

 

It is also worth paying attention to the condition of your bedding. If the body is too warm or too cold, deep sleep becomes difficult. To quiet the mind, the body also needs an environment in which it can rest with ease.

 

There is no need to continue every day without fail. There is no need to aim for a perfect life. Do what you can, without strain. These small practices quietly help restore harmony between body and mind.