Our mind controls genetic expression, and not the other way around

Our mind's influence over our genetic expression is an intricate interplay between our experiences and our biology.

This relationship is largely mediated through EPIGENETICS, or how environmental factors, behaviours and experiences modify gene activity without altering the underlying DNA sequence.​

This has significant implications for health and disease. Epigenetic modifications can make us more susceptible to mental health disorders, cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome

• DNA METHYLATION involves the addition of methyl groups to DNA molecules, typically suppressing gene expression. Environmental influences like stress or nurturing behaviours, can lead to changes in DNA methylation patterns, modulating gene activity

• HISTONES are proteins around which DNA is wrapped. Chemical modifications to these can alter the structure of chromatin, influencing gene accessibility and expression. Such modifications are responsive to environmental cues and can impact neuronal function and behaviour

• For example, children of Holocaust survivors often exhibit higher levels of stress and anxiety, including increased symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), greater risk of anxiety, and elevated cortisol levels, thoguht to result from epigenetic changes in genes such as Nr3c1, which plays a role in the stress response (this is debated)

• Another example, environmental exposures can lead to epigenetic changes that affect not only the individual exposed, but also subsequent generations eg exposure to certain hormone-disrupting chemicals can cause behavioural changes in descendants, suggesting that experiences can leave an epigenetic mark that influences future generations

Psych-K harnesses the power of the mind to influence genetic expression and overall well-being by transforming limiting beliefs at the subconscious level.

The mind's influence over our genetics exemplifies a dynamic and reciprocal relationship where experiences and environmental factors can shape genetic expression.