Holistic Health: Body, Mind, and Spirit
Tyler Thornton
How are you? A simple question that you likely hear asked on a daily basis. This common question from neighbors, baristas, cashiers, and coworkers is used to kickstart conversation and rarely goes past the simple response of “Good. And you?” But do others really care about how we are doing? I want you to take a moment and answer this honestly: How are you?
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the importance of holistic health. We often compartmentalize our physical fitness, spiritual health, or mental well-being separately, forgetting that true health encompasses our entire being - body, mind, and spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5 says, “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
Health apart from Christ does not exist. Health in our lives is found and nourished through a deepened pursuit of Jesus! Pursuing holistic health is not only essential for our personal well-being, but also crucial for our spiritual growth and connection with the Christ.
Firstly, let's talk about physical health. Taking care of our bodies is not just about vanity or longevity; it's about honoring the gift of life that we've been given. Like with all gifts that come from God we are to be good stewards. This means nourishing ourselves with wholesome foods, staying active, and getting enough rest. Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is take a nap! Now I love a good burger with a side of fries as much as the next guy, but remember, everything in moderation! When we neglect our physical health, we limit our capacity to serve others and to honor the gift of life we have been given.
Next, let's consider mental well-being. What is your mind fixated on? We live in a digital world that exposes us to far more things that will impact our mental health than ever before. A study showed that of those who engaged in frequent exposure to social media, “48.3% of the participants were found to have depression, 22.6% suffered from anxiety, and 19.4% had both. Moreover, more frequent exposure to social media was found to be linked to higher odds of anxiety and ‘combined anxiety and depression’” (Link between excessive social media use and psychiatric disorders). In a world filled with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty, it's vital to prioritize our mental health. If that looks like deleting social media for you, then do it! This can also involve practices like mindfulness, journaling, or seeking professional help when needed. Our minds are powerful instruments, and we should continually allow God to cultivate peace and clarity within them.
Last but certainly not least, the importance of spiritual health! Our spiritual well-being is the foundation of holistic health, as it shapes how we perceive God, ourselves, others, and the world around us. How are you feeding your soul? I have heard stories of people who were drained and depleted spiritually and assumed that it would naturally get better over time. Let me ask you a question: If you were dehydrated and in desperate need of water, would you assume that it would just go away with time? Or if you lacked sleep and were exhausted, would you hope that it would resolve itself in a day or two? OF COURSE NOT! You would seek out water and drink, and you would get a much needed night of rest. So why do we put off our spiritual needs in this fashion? Returning to nourishment is what our soul needs. We have found a source of life that never runs dry and is readily available whenever we need it! When you find yourself depleted spiritually, go to God’s Word; spend time with Him in prayer and watch how your needs are met.
Pursuing holistic health is not always easy. It requires intentionality, discipline, and the willingness to allow God to do a work of change within us. Luckily, the God who designed you knows exactly what you need even better than you do! When we prioritize holistic health, we experience greater joy, fulfillment, and alignment within our lives.