Between the security situation, the high cost of living, and the uncertainty about the future, and the modern world that keeps accelerating and demanding nonstop productivity—it’s no wonder that more and more people report feelings of stress, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sleep problems, or digestive issues.
The healthcare system can no longer handle the burden, and many are seeking an alternative solution—a treatment for the root cause, not just the symptoms. Maimonides’ medicine offers a holistic approach: healing the body through balancing the mind, nutrition, and movement.
When accumulated stress turns into physical illness
Maimonides believed that “the soul is the entity in the human body,” and that every illness stems from the soul. Today, the mind-body connection is no longer just a philosophical idea—it is scientifically supported. Studies show the link between chronic stress and an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic inflammation.
In his words—“He who restrains his anger, balances his eating, and increases his movement”—Maimonides essentially summarizes his entire healing philosophy. When it comes to the soul—it’s about how much we choose to get upset, angry, and blame ourselves, or how much we choose gratitude, joy, and compassion. Regarding nutrition—balanced eating, with an emphasis on seasonal, diverse food that is close to the local nature. Movement throughout the day is critical to our health.
Six Simple Tools to Reduce Stress in Our Lives
1. Conscious Breathing: According to Judaism, breathing is the thread connecting the soul to the body, as it is written—“and He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life”—breathing is not just a physical action, it is the key to healing. Maimonides recommends breathing air at the sea, in the forest, in green lungs—even a public garden with trees is preferable to a closed house. Under stress, breathing shortens. Deep, slow breathing signals the nervous system to relax. A recommended practice to reduce cortisol levels is called 4-4-8—inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, and exhale for 8.
2. Grounding: Walking barefoot on earth, or sitting near a tree, brings us back to a state of presence. The body remembers nature’s calm and balances the "fight or flight" response.
3. Restorative Sleep: Sleep deprivation triggers anxiety. Maimonides recommends avoiding food about 3–4 hours before bedtime; nighttime eating harms the sleep hormone (melatonin). Today, science recommends ensuring 7–8 hours of sleep in a dark room, without screen exposure or bad news for at least an hour beforehand. What to do instead? A book, music, stand-up comedy, or a social gathering will benefit your sleep quality.
4. Moderate Movement: “A person should always take care to exercise all his limbs, so that physical exertion also stimulates the soul.” You don’t need to run a marathon to improve your mental health. Walking, yoga, or dancing at home—release endorphins, encourage blood flow, balance mood, and improve metabolism. Find an activity that lifts your spirit and make it a routine: ping pong, basketball, swimming, dancing, yoga, Pilates—anything goes.
5. Balancing Nutrition: “Let your food be your medicine.” Processed food worsens stress. On the other hand, a diet based on legumes, fresh vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and whole grains—provides the body with the building blocks for serotonin and enhances a sense of calm and inner stability. Science has found a direct link between healthy nutrition and reduced depression and anxiety. Check for deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Especially: vitamin D, B12, and thyroid imbalance can cause mental unrest.
6. Community—an Ancient and Effective Remedy: Maimonides emphasized the importance of “a good friend.” Studies conducted in areas where people live to over 100 found that social connections save lives. Look for a neighborhood walking group, an interesting health course, or a regular social meeting.
Many studies in Israel have examined the Yemeni immigration generation, known for their long and healthy lives. It was mostly found that their secret to longevity was related to joy, rich community life, and a diet close to nature. What happened to their grandchildren and why do they suffer from illnesses like the rest of Israelis? I will expand on that in my next column.
Shirly Yosef, lecturer in natural health and Maimonides’ medicine. Want to learn more about Maimonides’ medicine? Click here.