Nurturing Wellness: Caring for Mind, Body & Soul

I remember the day my (now 15-year-old daughter) was born. I was highly devoted to a company at that time and went into work that morning to wrap up some loose ends, knowing I’d be getting induced in just a matter of hours. As I waddled out of the office that day, I stopped by my boss’ office and jokingly announced, “Bye, I’m going to have a baby now!” And that’s exactly what I did! I worked part-time from home through my 6-week maternity leave and was in a rush to get back to the office. I was in a rush to get back to busy, where I felt like I thrived – until my lack of balance caught up with me. My priorities were skewed, and I got tired and burnt out. 

In today's fast-paced society, we're often applauded for our drive and productivity. Yet constant busyness can come at a profound price. I’ve learned over the years that in the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of self-care and balance. We often overlook the connection between our mind, body, and soul and how important each aspect is to our overall well-being. However, true wellness stems from ensuring that we intentionally nurture these three facets equally and avoid getting lost in the busyness of life.

Here are some ways to care for your mind, body, and soul to promote overall mental health:

Mind

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”  Philippians 4:8.

During times of anxiety or distress, we are called to turn our minds toward the positive, dwelling on the truth of God's promises. The impact of aligning our thoughts with God's Word can be profound, leading to a renewed perspective and emotional well-being.

1. Practice mindfulness:  Engage in intentional mindfulness to cultivate awareness of the present moment. Set aside a few minutes each day to observe your thoughts without judgment, allowing yourself to become more attuned to your thought patterns and emotions.

2. Seek mental stimulation:  Keep your mind sharp by engaging in activities that challenge your intellect, such as reading, puzzles, or learning a new skill. Stimulating your brain regularly can help improve cognitive function and prevent mental decline.

3. Limit screen time:  While technology has its benefits, excessive screen time can take a toll on your mental well-being. Set boundaries around your use of electronic devices and make time for activities that don't involve screens.

4. Prioritize sleep:  Quality sleep is essential for mental clarity and emotional resilience. Establish a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation, such as reading or taking a warm bath, and create a sleep-friendly environment free of distractions.

Body

"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

This Biblical truth emphasizes the sacredness of our physical bodies. Doing our best to keep our bodies healthy and strong becomes an act of worship. Without our physical health, it can become challenging to cultivate a healthy mind and spirit.

1. Eat nutritious foods: Fuel your body with a balanced diet. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods and sugary snacks as they can contribute to mood swings and energy crashes.

2. Stay Active: Exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also plays a significant role in managing stress and improving mood. Find activities you enjoy, whether it's walking, yoga, dancing, or swimming, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3 or more days a week.

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat your body with kindness and respect, avoiding harsh self-criticism or unrealistic expectations. Listen to your body's cues for rest and nourishment and prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

4. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can negatively impact both physical and mental performance. Water accounts for about 75% of our brain and is crucial for healthy cognitive functioning. Make it a habit to drink plenty of water throughout the day. 

Soul

Nurturing our souls involves intentional practices that draw us closer to God. "Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him." (Psalm 62:5)

Prayer, meditation, and the study of God's Word can provide a strong sense of connection and peace that we crave. As we cultivate a deeper relationship with God, our souls discover the rest and hope that surpasses the struggles that often accompany life's challenges.

1. Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors connecting with the natural world. Whether it's taking a hike in the mountains, strolling along the beach, or simply sitting in a park, immersing yourself in nature can provide a sense of peace. 

2. Nurture Healthy Relationships: Cultivate meaningful connections with friends, family, and community. Invest time and energy in nurturing relationships that uplift and support you, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed.

3. Practice Gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by regularly reflecting on the things you're thankful for in your life. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking a moment each day to express appreciation can significantly shift your perspective and enhance your overall well-being.

4. Engage in Creative Expression: Lean into your creative side by engaging in activities that allow for self-expression, such as painting, writing, or playing music. Creativity can be a powerful outlet for processing emotions and connecting with your innermost thoughts and desires.

By prioritizing the care of your mind, body, and soul, you can cultivate a greater sense of balance, resilience, and overall mental wellness. Remember that self-care is not selfish but rather essential for your well-being and ability to show up fully and embrace God’s plan for your life.

As I reflect on my past, I realize what I thought was thriving wasn’t at all what God intended my life to look like. I couldn’t see it then; my lack of intentional self-care interfered with all parts of my life: mind, body, and soul. I encourage you to not make my mistake - take small steps each day to nurture yourself and embrace the journey toward greater health and happiness.

We have a team at the Renewing Life Center who can help you with all this. To set up an appointment with a counselor, call 702-434-7290!

Samantha Winters, LMFT