What is psychoneuroimmunology?
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is the field studying the bidirectional communication between the nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system. Mental states are linked to immune function.
Key Findings
- •Stress → suppressed immune function, increased inflammation
- •Relaxation → enhanced natural killer cell activity
- •Social connection → stronger immune response
- •Meditation → reduced inflammatory markers
Why does Psychoneuroimmunology matter?
Psychoneuroimmunology matters because it shows that the mind, nervous system, and immune system are closely connected. It helps explain how psychological stress can affect immune function and how immune signals can influence mood and behavior.
A well-known example is sickness behavior: when you are ill, immune signals help cause tiredness, low mood, and withdrawal. The field also helps explain why chronic stress is associated with slower wound healing.
What affects Psychoneuroimmunology?
The links studied in psychoneuroimmunology are affected by several factors. Chronic stress is one of the most researched: long-term activation of stress hormones and the sympathetic nervous system can shift immune activity, sometimes raising markers of inflammation while dampening other responses.
Sleep matters too, since poor or short sleep is linked with changes in immune signaling and weaker responses to some vaccines. Social isolation, depression, physical activity, aging, and diet have all been associated with immune differences. Supportive relationships and stress-reduction practices have shown some effects in studies, but results vary and benefits are often modest. Most of this work shows associations, so cause-and-effect conclusions should be drawn cautiously.
In ONDA Life
Level 1 "Sensory Filtering & PNI" leverages neuroplasticity to strengthen the link between mental states and immune responses. Calming the nervous system through interoceptive practices has measurable effects on immune function.