What is a Mind/Body Split?
A Mind/Body Split occurs when we feel that the body is not performing to the conscious mind’s expectations or demands, such as when we are trying to conceive a child. Over time, we begin to feel out of control, helpless, and angry with our body for not producing what our mind has already conceived through imagination. In response, we may develop psychological problems, like depression and anxiety; compulsive behavior to act on our impatience and frustration; or irritability and anger at others. A Mind/Body Split can also occur during invasive or painful medical procedures, even when they are supposed to help us. Many men and women find infertility treatments to be highly stressful and sometimes, traumatizing. Instead of seeming helpful, the procedures feel injurious, like “an insult” to our identity and body. To protect ourselves and continue treatment, some of us “numb out” in our bodies and deny our feelings. Consequently, we feel disconnected from ourselves and others. What is Mind/
