HOLISTIC HEALTH

“…May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, and BODY be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23

God’s Will for His children is HOLISTIC HEALTH: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, and BODY be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1The.5:23). The term “holistic” conveys the idea that things should be seen as a whole and not just as a sum of their parts, where systems are more integrated than individual. Conventional medicine often looks at the body in sections of individual symptoms and parts rather that the whole system it really is. Holistic health examines the whole person: spirit, mind, and body. It is a continuous process and daily devotion to obtain overall balance as a human being. It cares for the whole person, to ensure sound health, and covers at least five key aspects, namely: physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual health.

Holistic Health is about life flowing in and out of us like a breeze blowing through a house, and having God’s presence touching and transforming everything. Physical or biological health describes the health of the body and its various parts – internal and external. It is a function of factors such as: bodily mass index, physical frame, diet or nutrition, physical activity or regular exercise, and rest habits. Mental and emotional wellness means that our inner life provides stability and resilience to handle life’s stress, joys and difficulties. There are many aspects of our lives with unresolved issues, because we often try to avoid the accompanying pain and pressures. Such latent emotions gradually gain momentum and begin to take control of our lives, impacting on our mental agility, self-control, and ability to interact with others and ourselves.

The generality of humanity face challenges in the areas of health and wellness. Sustaining sound health is not limited to the physiological dimension and related issues such as regular exercise and proper nutrition – working out a lot or eating the right foods. It particularly borders on the mind's link to the body. An unhealthy, stressed out lifestyle is the source of most human health challenges on Earth. To be spiritually or emotionally fit is just as important as being physically fit. Whatever may be the state of our personal health, living inspiration from God’s Word through consistent devotionals, for example, will enhance our journey to holistic health, providing support, comfort and motivation to keep spirit, mind, and body healthy.

Mental and emotional imbalance has a ripple effect on the physical aspects of our being, where disease or discomfort spills over and manifests itself in symptoms or an illness. A holistic approach to Health will cover: balanced nutritional intake, sufficient rest, moderate daily exercise, meditation in Scripture, social interaction with family, friends, and peers to obtain the nurturing and support as well as much needed intellect, information and guidance.

Our Heavenly Father desires that we be strengthened wholly – harmoniously integrating the spirit, mind, and body – the entire personality basking in the Presence of the Creator. He wants us to experience the healthiest life possible so that we can enjoy every moment we have on earth without wasting time, losing energy, or falling into a negative, downward spiral. As antidote against poor health, biblical texts have offered comfort for illness, trouble and despair, and revitalized dwindling health. In times of need, we can turn to the Bible for encouragement and prayer support. The Holy Book is saturated with faith-nourishing passages, which also encourage us to pray for health and see its materialisation.

Over the centuries, multitudes of believers have found solace, healing and strength in the biblical texts that call out to God when their bodies and minds fell to illness, troubles and despair. We too can apply God’s Word in prayer as we turn to God for health and wellness! However, in addition to person-related health, God’s Word also gives ample insight into the health of places, such as: community health, neighbourhood health, city health, Church health, and the health of society in general.