What Is Descartes Relationship Between Mind and Body?

By Arianna Benson

Rene Descartes was a French philosopher who was born in the late 16th century and lived until 1650, a lifetime in which he delved into various subjects. One subject that he dealt with was called dualism. He indicates that the mind affects the body, but the body can also affect the mind. This mind/body relationship is something that many still believe today, although our thoughts on the subject have evolved. For instance, Descartes believed that animals did not have minds and could not feel pain, and practiced live dissection of animals.

But his belief in the relationship between the mind and body is something that many still consider today. The debate is not dead, but many do believe that a sound mind may contribute to a sound body, and vice versa. Have you ever felt mentally refreshed after exercising, or have you ever felt like you had more energy in the middle of the afternoon if you've exercised in the morning? On the other hand, does relieving stress make you feel more relaxed?

Finding ways of relieving stress can be important during pregnancy or while trying to become pregnant such as during cycles of IVF or other assisted reproductive technologies. Acupuncture may be a good way to achieve this. The reasons for acupuncture's success are not fully understood, but the release of endorphins may have a calming effect that helps individuals relax and relieve stress. Practitioners believe that a life energy that flows through the body may become blocked due to stress, trauma, poor diet or lack of exercise. By placing thin, sterile needles in certain points on the body, practitioners believe that this releases positive energy which pushes out negative energy in the process, thus restoring balance to the body.

Restorative yoga is a type of yoga that involves the use of props like blocks and blankets to assume certain poses. This is a restful exercise that does not require the exertion of any effort. Note that this is not the same as sleeping, however, and there are several benefits associated with it. This exercise may be performed by pregnant women or women who are looking to become pregnant to relieve stress, which may have a positive impact on their overall health and their fertility. Various types of massage may be helpful in relieving stress and may be a part of various mind/body exercises or programs designed to help women looking to become pregnant or who are already pregnant.

Arianna has assembled more information on Mind and Body programs as well as restorative yoga for pregnant women. Have a look at your convenience for relieving stress and how it helps during a pregnancy.

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