Taking Control: Neuroplasticity and the Mind-Body Connection in Eczema Care

The mind-body connection, rooted in the concept of neuroplasticity, is real. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Neuroplasticity can help you manage eczema. And it can help with other medical challenges, both physical and mental.¹

When we're in a challenging situation with real physical symptoms, we can often feel helpless. It can feel like we've "tried everything and nothing is working."

This feeling is common when treating eczema. For example, you may go to your next doctor's appointment with high hopes that this time, a new medicine will make it all better. And once again, you are faced with disappointment.

Many factors contribute to eczema

Treating eczema is challenging. That is in part because we're still trying to figure out what causes it.

As Dr. Peter Lio noted, “We have these different stories, maybe even 5, depending on how you count it: barrier, inflammation, itch, behavior, this mind-body connection, and then the microbiome. We understand that they all play off each other, and you can kind of make them fall like dominoes.”²

Finding control through the mind-body connection

Each of these contributing factors is important to examine. But I would like to focus on the mind-body connection. This is one area where we have the ability to make changes and implement them immediately. And that goes for both those of us with eczema and the people who care for us.

I believe this is the area where we have the most control. That is in contrast to areas that can take much longer to address. Dealing with these often feels like a game of whack-a-mole:

• The skin barrier
• Environmental factors
• The microbiome

That's why I want to emphasize the power of our mind! This work is not necessarily easy. But the changes you make can improve not just eczema but your overall quality of life.

I firmly believe there is a time and place for Western medicine. I don't suggest replacing it. But by improving our mind-body connection, we may be able to reduce our reliance on these medicines.

How does neuroplasticity apply?

There are some things we can control. Applying the concept of neuroplasticity to managing eczema means using the brain's ability to reorganize itself. Flexing our brains can help us improve both mental and physical responses to the condition. Here are some ways I suggest:

Mindfulness and meditation

Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety These are known triggers for eczema. Mindfulness and meditation can also help lower levels of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone linked to inflammation and eczema. This can potentially reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms.³

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT can help you identify and change (reframe) negative thought patterns related to your eczema. Reframing your thoughts can help you improve your emotional response to the condition. And it may reduce stress-related flare-ups.⁴

Positive self-talk

Engaging in positive self-talk and affirmations can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Confidence and self-esteem can be negatively impacted by eczema. Using positive self-talk can help you feel more in control and less stressed about your condition.

Healthy lifestyle choices

Certain habits can help your body better manage stress and inflammation. These habits can support both mental and physical health. And they may reduce your eczema symptoms:

• Getting regular exercise
• Making a priority of adequate sleep
• Eating a balanced diet

Building a support network

Connect with others who have eczema or similar conditions. They can provide emotional support and practical advice. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.

Other stress management techniques

Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage stress levels. This in turn can help reduce eczema symptoms.

Bottom line

Harness the power of neuroplasticity to improve your mental and physical well-being. It may help lead to better management of your eczema.