Have you ever wondered if a “mind-body connection” exists? In other words, do our thoughts and emotions have an impact on physical health and well-being? And if so, do you believe that if we address our mind, we might experience physical healing from disease? Or, does this concept seem a little “fringe”? Maybe you might go far as to say “mind-body connection” is for weirdos or whacks trying to sell something. Me? I have thought all of the above. Often times this depends on the condition (disease/ailment) being described and the person trying to sell me the idea. When it comes to “health topics”, I think it is safe to say that every idea has a sliver of truth. And thus, should not be completely denied and/or accepts as fact.

Enter Heal.

Released in 2016, heal is a documentary written by Kelly Noonan and stars several names in the “new age” space including Deepak Chopra, Greg Braden, and Marianne Williamson. I believe this documentary is attempting to explain the role that mental and emotional “stress” has in physical disease (ie: cancer, auto-immune conditions, chronic pain..etc). And, how by addressing the “mind” you can heal the body.

Who should watch this?

If you are someone who is sitting on the fence and maybe think there is some link between the health of our mind and the health of our body, you will find this documentary somewhat confirming of this belief system.

This film does a good job of explaining the mechansims where by our thoughts could potentially be leading to a health condition. For example, the “chronic inflammation hypothesis” is strongly referenced throughout the film.  There is strong evidence that chronic inflammation is linked to most non-communicable diseases. There is also strong evidence that many mental conditions lead to chronic inflammation. Following this logic, I agree that there might be a mechanism where some conditions might improve by addressing our inner self. In this case, you will find this film to be motivating and potentially give you hope that you might have more control over your health.

Who might not want to watch this?

If you have a disease that is terminal or a disease that might not have “a cure”, I would watch this with an open mind. Yes, the film presents a compelling case as to how the mind might be impacting physical health, however, there are truly many conditions where I personally believe this is not the case. My hesitation is that someone – maybe you – might watch Heal and feel like your disease is somehow your fault. For example, maybe you didn’t “think” the right thoughts, or “pray” correctly.  Although I agree that some conditions might be related to our thought process, this is NOT a well studies area of medicine and needs further research.

Overall Impressions

Full disclosure, I have read The Placebo by Joe Dispenza which is based on this hypothesis. I have also worked in healthcare for 20+ years with sometimes critically ill patients. In my personal experience, I have seen the impact that our thoughts can play on our physical health. On the other hand, The Placebo, might be a little to “absolute” in the belief that everyone has the potential for a “cure”.

As far as the film structure, very engaging. I appreciated the interviews of people who believe that they were healed from their medical conditions. I also respect Deepak Chopra’s presence in this fill and his insights. I respect his views, and believe he has a balanced perspective on this topic.

Watch Heal