Have you ever wondered how the mind and body are deeply interconnected, influencing your overall health and well-being? In this episode of People & Planet, I’m joined by Nawar Kamona, a passionate expert in health and wellness, to explore the profound relationship between our thoughts, emotions, and physical health.  Nawar Kamona is a holistic health practitioner with a background in nutrition and a deep passion for exploring the mind-body connection. Her work focuses on the impact of community, mindset, and emotional well-being on physical health. With extensive experience in addressing chronic stress, autoimmune conditions, and gut health, Nawar empowers individuals to create lasting, transformative changes in their lives through science-backed, compassionate approaches. She also volunteers with children in hospitals, bringing her insights on the healing power of positivity and play to those in need.  With a background in nutrition and a functional approach to well-being, Nawar shares insights into the often-overlooked ingredients of health—community, mindset, and the mind-body connection. We dive into fascinating studies, including the Harvard Longevity Study and the Roseto Effect, to uncover how community and emotional connections play a pivotal role in our physical health outcomes. Nawar also unpacks the impact of chronic stress, negative thought patterns, and how the nocebo effect impacts our bodies, while offering actionable strategies for healing and self-care. Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Community: Discover how strong relationships and a supportive community can improve survival rates, heart health, and overall longevity—even more than quitting smoking or regular exercise. Mindset & Epigenetics: Learn how positive emotions and belief systems can influence gene expression, potentially overriding genetic predispositions and chronic stress impacts. Nocebo vs. Placebo Effect: Understand the fascinating science of how negative beliefs about food or health can exacerbate symptoms, while positive beliefs can foster healing. Gut-Brain Axis & Stress: Explore the bi-directional communication between the gut and brain, and how stress can disrupt the microbiome, causing inflammation and other health issues. Practical Healing Techniques: Gain actionable tips on mindfulness, self-compassion exercises, and the importance of play and community in creating a balanced, healthier life. Children, Imagination, and Healing: Hear inspiring stories from Nawar’s volunteer work with children in hospitals, highlighting how imaginative play and positive environments foster resilience and healing. We talk about: 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:29 Exploring the Mind-Body Connection 01:55 The Importance of Community in Health 02:41 Scientific Studies on Community and Health 05:56 The Role of Stress and Thoughts in Health 13:32 Psychoneuroimmunology: The Science Behind Mind-Body Connection 16:12 Placebo and Nocebo Effects 24:59 Gut-Brain Axis and Its Impact on Health 27:22 A Profound Example of the Nocebo Effect 29:55 Volunteering with Sick Children 30:36 The Therapeutic Power of Make-Believe 31:24 Positive Emotions and Healing 32:19 Engaging Activities for Pain Relief 38:46 The Role of Stress in Health 48:50 Mindfulness and Self-Compassion 50:04 The Importance of Community and Solitude 57:53 Final Thoughts and Resources Resources Mentioned: Robert Waldinger Ted Talk The Roseto Effect Dr. Alia Crum Ted Talk Dr. Kristin Neff Play by Dr. Stuart Brown No Bad Parts by Dr. Richard Schwartz Connect with Nawar Website: https://www.nawarkamona.com/  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholesome_practice/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049758914001  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeopleAndPlanetPodcast  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alya-alhamad  Website: https://alyaalhamad.com/  Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not repla