Concept & Connection
- Our body, mind, and spirit are interdependent but throughout life can become disconnected, causing dis-ease and preventing wellness. Think of being diagnosed with an illness. Our body is not well, but the anticipation of future uncertainties also affects our thoughts, interactions, and attitudes.
- Another type of connection is when spiritual distress expresses itself physically. The feeling that life lacks meaning and purpose can cause anxiety or depression. If we are unable to forgive or if we feel we cannot relate to anyone or anything, we can lose hope and become physically ill.
- Stress from relationships, employment, or any number of life’s challenges can also induce physical symptoms such as headache, back pain, and other related dis–eases.
Aware of these connections, we can recognize and address real concerns.
The Abundant Life Wellness Awareness Tool presents key components of wellness and helps us to identify the connection between physical, psychosocial, and spiritual well–being. A common language helps people to communicate about spirituality, not defined by specific religious practice, but as part of each person's values and belief system. People become comfortable talking about universal human needs. This model helps us to understand our differences and embrace our commonalities as whole persons. My wellness entails honoring myself in relationship with God, self, nature, and others.