The body and mind are interconnected. Spiritual practices can help strengthen and alleviate the effects of depression or other mental illnesses, which in turn affects physical well-being. Dealing with chronic illness, pain, or disability is stressful and often leads to depression. A common theme between maintaining good physical and spiritual health is the importance of self-investment.
This is true for all six dimensions of well-being. The goal is to discover a harmonious balance between these six areas, so that we can truly live prosperously as God intended. Much research has been done on the relationship between spirituality and health. Studies have shown that people who are spiritual tend to have better physical, mental health, and overall well-being.
Spirituality can help reduce stress and can also lead to more positive coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult situations. Conversely, if a person doesn't take care of their mental health, it can cause physical health problems. You can talk to your doctor or a mental health professional, or search for books, websites, or workshops on the topic. I want to be a good steward of my spiritual and physical being because I know that both are gifts from God and are deeply connected.
It wasn't until I started training for a half marathon that I realized that these two things, my physical health and my spiritual health, were related. Poor physical health can be the result of chronic or acute illness, overweight, or the risk of heart disease. Throughout your life, you may experience mental health disorders that affect the way you think, how you feel, and the actions you take. Bill Hettler (co-founder of the National Institute of Wellness) and his six dimensions of well-being, nutrition and exercise are only superficial when it comes to complete health.
And I think that if you want to take your spiritual health seriously, you can't ignore your physical health. These three areas of health are interconnected and it is important for a person to maintain them in order to live a healthy and balanced life. Some people follow a specific religion, while others may be considered spiritual but not religious. Mental health disorders can range from unhappiness, anxiety, and depression to more serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Investing or not investing in your physical health directly affects your spiritual health, and vice versa. One thing that most professionals agree on is that your mental health can influence your physical health, increasing the number of illnesses or injuries. Being part of that big picture helps you cultivate a positive state of mind, which can change your perspective on how you view other aspects of your health. I became more determined, motivated, engaged and present, not only physically but also spiritually.
A person's spiritual health is their connection to something greater than themselves, which can give meaning and purpose to their life.
