“The dancing of a madman at the market square is only funny when he is not your family member.”
This intriguing Ghanaian proverb isn’t meant to be taken literally—but today, let’s do just that, using it as a doorway to understand how deeply powerful and complex our brain states are when it comes to decision-making and mental wellness.
In this scenario, we’re looking at two minds, each operating from entirely different “truths,” shaped by both their current mental state (including the physical health of the brain) and their past experiences. The madman’s brain justifies everything he’s doing—his reality makes perfect sense to him. Meanwhile, the bystander laughs, not out of malice, but probably because their brain is wired to find humor or absurdity in such situations.
But what if the observer had once cared for someone living with mental illness? That same dancing might evoke compassion—or even joy—rather than laughter. Our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are deeply intertwined with the physical functions of the brain, influenced by what we see, hear, consume, and feel.
Mental health and happiness share a beautiful, reciprocal relationship—good mental health fuels happiness, and happiness, in turn, nourishes mental health.
Sounds like a beautiful cycle, right? Let’s unpack it.
The Healing Power of Socializing and Travel (Your Eyes and Ears Need This!)
As a self-proclaimed introverted extrovert, I didn’t always appreciate the value of social time—until a life coach shifted my perspective. “The most toxic thing isn’t sugar,” she said, “it’s isolation.” That truth hit me hard. While solitude is essential for focus and recharging, too much of it can stir up negative thoughts and cut us off from the joy that comes from connecting with others.
That’s why this year, we’re inviting you to join us at our Mid-Year Weekend Getaway by the coast—a vibrant weekend filled with dance, connection, and soulful fun.
Travel isn’t just about discovering new places; it’s a powerful way to give your brain a break from the stress triggers of your everyday environment. It opens your mind to fresh ideas, new people, and unexpected ways to cultivate happiness and wellbeing.
If you love dancing and embracing wellness, this getaway is designed for you—to refresh your spirit, nourish your soul, and remind you that life is best lived in rhythm with others.
Balancing Logic and Emotion -To Not Say Everything You Think
Every decision you make dances between logic and emotion. Even choices that seem purely practical are often influenced by how we want to feel—beautiful, secure, accepted. Understanding this balance is vital for mental wellness, especially when engaging in conversations with others. As one of my favorite therapists wisely says, “You don’t have to say everything on your mind.”
Why? Because the frontal lobe—the part of your brain that controls reasoning and decision-making—can be trained to filter your words. Speaking your truth is important, yes. But sometimes, unfiltered honesty can damage relationships, which in turn affects your emotional well-being. It’s not about silencing your voice; it’s about navigating conversations with awareness, empathy, and grace.
Remember when we said in our previous articles that no argument is ever truly won? Someone might believe they are right because of logic, but your emotions don’t agree with their logic.
What You Feed Your Brain Matters: Mouth and Skin
Just like any other organ, your brain needs proper nourishment. The chemicals in your body that fuel your feelings, thoughts, and behavior all depend on what you consume. Everything that enters your bloodstream eventually affects your brain’s function.
Focus on brain-friendly foods: dark chocolate, fish rich in omega-3s, whole grains, and leafy greens packed with antioxidants and B vitamins. These help your brain work optimally. Avoid foods that disrupt sleep—because poor sleep often leads to anxiety and depression.
As someone who embraces natural living, I live by the motto: “If you can’t put it in your mouth, don’t put it on your skin.” This doesn’t mean rejecting beauty products outright, but being mindful about what’s inside them and how those ingredients might affect your brain once absorbed.
And a quick caution about medicine: over-the-counter or prescribed drugs can alter your brain chemistry in unexpected ways. Always consult with trusted health professionals and use medications wisely, respecting their power and potential side effects.
Final Thoughts: Your Brain is Your Best Dance Partner
Like that dancer in the market square, your brain is complex and uniquely wired. Sometimes it makes choices others don’t understand, but learning to care for it—through balanced logic and emotion, nourishing your senses, connecting with others, and choosing wisely what you consume—can help you lead a happier, healthier life.
At Ronchez Fitness, we believe wellness is a dance: one of rhythm, joy, and mindful steps. So put on your favorite song, nurture your mind, and dance through life with grace.
If you loved this, let’s keep the conversation going. What’s your favorite wellness ritual for mental health? And what’s your go-to music that lifts your soul? Drop a comment below!
Remember, self love is not selfish…