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The healing power of well-being

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 June 2014

Jobin Mathew
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, CMS College Kottayam, Kerala, India
Cheramadathikudyl Scariya Paulose*
Affiliation:
Molecular Neurobiology and Cell Biology Unit, Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, Kerala, India
*
Dr C. S. Paulose, Molecular Neurobiology and Cell Biology Unit, Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, Kerala 682 022, India. Tel: +91 484 2575588; Fax: +91 484 2575588; E-mail: cspaulose@cusat.ac.in

Abstract

Neuroendocrine system plays an important role in modulating our body functions and emotions. At the same time, emotions implicate a pivotal role in the regulation of brain function and neuroendocrine system. Negative affective states such as depression and stress are associated with premature mortality and increase the risk of various fatal diseases. It has been suggested that positive affective states are protective and improve our health and productiveness. Several potential mechanisms have been posited to account for these associations including improved health behaviour, direct physiological benefits, enhanced resistance and recovery from stress among individuals with high versus low positive emotional resources. This review summarises information concerning the neuronal and hormonal systems in mood, impact of negative and positive affective states on the level of cortisol, epinephrine, serotonin, dopamine and endorphins. The functional correlation of neuronal and hormonal systems in the development of diseases and their ability to enhance health-relevant biological processes are also evaluated.

Type
Review Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011

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