Neural Basis of Body-Mind Interaction and Body-Mind Practice
Exploring Body-Mind Interactions and Their Impact on Well-Being March 19, 2026 DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3373-3521-6.ch002 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12-week yoga intervention |
| Key findings | Argues that the ACC and insular cortex are crucial for body-mind interaction, and that interventions targeting these pathways, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation, can improve health outcomes in stress-related conditions. |
Abstract
Stress triggers mind-body symptoms by activating the autonomic nervous system through the brain. Neuroimaging studies have identified the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the insular cortex as being central to this interaction. Abnormalities in these regions have been linked to stress-related disorders such as depression, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic pain. Recent research shows that modern psychotherapy and traditional body-mind practices can improve symptoms by modulating these neural pathways. For example, active listening activates the brain's reward system and insula. Additionally, a 12-week yoga intervention significantly improved mood and psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Practices like mindfulness meditation also alter neural activity and brain volume in the ACC and insula. In conclusion, the ACC and insular cortex are crucial for body-mind interaction. Interventions targeting these pathways can improve health. Brain imaging research is essential for developing objective biomarkers and personalized treatments for stress-related conditions.