Definition & Scope:
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is the interdisciplinary field that studies how the mind (psycho), brain/nervous system (neuro), and immune system (immunology) interact and influence one another. This means it explores how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can impact your immune system — and vice versa.

Core Concepts:

• Mental and emotional states (stress, joy, depression) affect the body.

• The brain and immune system communicate via chemical messengers (neurotransmitters and cytokines).

• This bidirectional communication plays a role in disease development, progression, and recovery.

Why It Matters:

• Chronic stress and mental illness can suppress immunity and increase disease risk.

• Understanding PNI can help improve treatment for autoimmune diseases, infections, cancer, and even aging.

• Mind-body practices (like mindfulness, therapy, or yoga) can influence physical healing and resilience.

Quote to Feature:

“PNI shows that the immune system is not just a passive defense mechanism — it’s an active, responsive system deeply tied to how we feel and think.”