By John Robin Murphy; Rock House Center
No one would deny that wellness is enhanced when we develop our physical core. But with all our focus on the physical, it is easy to overlook the less tangible but possibly more important spiritual core. Just as there is a heart within us that needs attention, every person has a spiritual component that is actually more foundational to our wellness, because our wellness is impacted by our wellbeing.
The association between wellness and wellbeing has been scientifically established. Those who have internal peace exhibit many emotional characteristics that promote good health. Those who are depressed, anxious, angry or generally troubled have two forces acting in their lives that negatively impact their health.
Negative Emotions Cause Real Physical Stress on the Body
These negative emotions cause real physical stress on the body. Many illnesses, such as heart disease, are either directly caused or worsened by stress. Another aspect that works against wellness is what people do to manage these negative feelings. Common coping methods can become potentially self destructive activities like abusing drugs or alcohol, over-eating, engaging in risky behavior or making poor decisions. A few years ago during a college tour, my family visited a dorm for women and noticed that the RA’s hall bulletin board listed engaging in sex as one of five ways to manage stress. Given all the awareness of STDs, this would be an example of participating in risky behavior to manage stress.
Unforgiveness Robs us of Peace and Our Sense of Wellbeing
Peace and wellbeing are at the center of our spiritual faith. Many report that as they pursue their faith, they experience an inner peace and strength. Those of the Judeo-Christian heritage who seek to understand and live by the precepts of their faith report that it strengthens them and enhances the way they go through life. A great example is the parable of the unmerciful servant which teaches that as we harbor unforgiveness, we will experience internal suffering. This emotional torment and bitterness can rob us of our peace and therefore our sense of wellbeing.
Midlife Crisis – A Crisis of Purpose
Another common source of stress, most notably for men, is the condition of midlife crisis. This is actually a crisis of purpose. The need to be part of a meaningful eternal purpose resides in our spiritual core. One of the wisest men in recorded history is Solomon, who reported that man has within him “a divinely implanted sense of a purpose.” So for those who struggle to resolve a loss of purpose with a new car, new house or new spouse the answer is to nurture their spiritual core. Through the pursuit of their faith, they will connect with a greater purpose to ultimately satisfy the dissatisfaction brewing within them.
A God-Centered Pursuit
Truly “Holistic” includes “Holy.” Remember that there is a spiritual aspect at the foundation of your being, and like any other dimension of your life, it needs attention. So, whenever you sense a pull from your spiritual dimension, respond with a God-centered pursuit that feeds your core, just as you would respond to thirst by drinking water.
