“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” World Health Organization
Happy Monday!
We had remarkable weather this weekend! It was lovely to be outdoors soaking up vitamin D and enjoying activities with friends and family. I hope you spent some quality time in social engagements and regenerated your mental and physical wellness.
Over the weekend, I spent time thinking about some of the elements that comprise balanced health. As I considered the various components, I repeatedly returned to the concept of what good health is and what it isn’t. Sometimes, it’s good to look at the positive aspects, and sometimes, seeing another perspective is beneficial.
The World Health Organization summed it up nicely:
It’s the not merely part that strikes me as significant. First and foremost, it’s not merely physical, mental, and social, but spiritual wellness is at the center of our point of balance. It’s what grounds us and keeps us from falling apart when everything else looks hopeless. Then there’s our emotional wellness, which partners with our mental health to keep us in tune with our internal world so we can navigate the external ebbs and flows of life. When we manage these things well and not merely treat them as afterthoughts, we’re capable of greatness in all areas of our existence, including our health and well-being.
And what about when infirmity and disease are present? I don’t think we are necessarily in the abyss of utter helplessness. I’ve known many people who have risen above their obstacles and, despite the odds, have had the most admirable mental outlook. These individuals are inspirational and model courage and persistence through superior mental and spiritual well-being in the face of infirmity and disease. They redefine not merely.
Who do you know that has defied the odds? Friends who are cancer-free, are effectively managing heart disease or diabetes, are actively engaged in treating their mental health issues, and are winning the constant battles of anger, depression, impulse control, anxiety, panic attacks, and so many other challenges. Who do you know that has had miraculous healing like the woman in Luke 13:
“And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, “Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.” v. 11-13 (NKJV)
Woman, you are loosed! Maybe it’s Man, you are loosed. Or, Larry, you are loosed! Or Mary, Bill, Shannon, or Garrett, fill in the name. It happens every day. Maybe not as dramatically as in Scripture, but every day, we see miracles around us when people find they are not merely free from something that ails them but find balance and well-being because of effort, courage, and the will to be more than what others say they’re capable of being.
Think about where you’re settling for the status quo this week. Are there places where you need to improve your well-being game? Perhaps you need to redefine a not merely in your life. Maybe you’re called to help someone else with theirs. What I do know is that as you search for ways to realign your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellness, you’ll not only find your grounding and balance, you’ll see miracles unfold. And who couldn’t stand to see one of those these days?!!
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
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