5 minute read
HOLY WELLNESS
Well With My Soul
by Melissa Kessler, INHC, MA
In holistic wellness, I’ve had the privilege of journeying alongside many women as they navigate the complexities of well-being. In our pursuit of wellness, we often prioritize physical health through nutrition and exercise. However, true wellness encompasses much more than just the body; it includes the mind and soul as well.
In our quest for wellness, we must acknowledge the profound interconnection between these three dimensions of being: body, mind, and soul. Neglecting one aspect can lead to an imbalance that affects our overall well-being. While caring for our physical health is crucial, achieving true wellness requires nurturing our souls and tending to our spiritual health.
For many, the journey towards achieving wellness in the soul begins with healing from past traumas. Unresolved wounds and emotional baggage can weigh heavily on the soul, hindering our ability to experience true peace and fulfillment. As we confront and process painful experiences, we pave the way for healing and restoration. While the journey may be challenging, it is essential to unlock the fullness of life God intends for us.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (PHILIPPIANS 4:6-7 ESV)
Central to the journey of healing is our relationship with Christ. As believers in Christ, we should understand that true wholeness and wellness can only be found in Him. He invites us to come as we are, broken and imperfect, to receive His love and grace. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He offers us forgiveness, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. Our relationship with Christ is the cornerstone of our spiritual well-being, providing us with strength, comfort, and hope in the midst of life’s trials.
We are reminded of the importance of holistic wellbeing in Psalm 23:1-3 (ESV) as it declares, The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. These verses remind us that God cares for us deeply and desires to restore and refresh our souls.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. (PSALM 23:1-3 ESV)
Spending time with Christ is essential for nurturing our souls and cultivating a deeper intimacy with Him. Just as we prioritize physical exercise to strengthen our bodies, we must prioritize spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and studying scripture to nourish our souls. These practices not only deepen our relationship with Christ but also provide us with guidance, wisdom, and discernment as we navigate life’s challenges.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7 ESV)
Incorporating soul-nourishing activities into our daily routines is key to achieving holistic well-being. Whether it’s starting the day with quiet time spent in prayer and reflection, meditating on God’s Word, or journaling to process your thoughts and emotions, these practices help to replenish and rejuvenate our souls.
Community also plays a vital role in our journey toward wellness in the soul. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who can offer support, encouragement, and accountability strengthens our faith and gives us a sense of belonging. Whether participating in a small group, attending church services, or joining a Bible study, sharing our faith journey with others enriches our spiritual lives and fosters deeper connections within the body of Christ.
This following verse is one I often share to remind others as well as myself of the importance of being well with our souls and its connection to our overall well-being. Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well (3 John 1:2 NIV).
Self-care is also essential for nurturing our souls and maintaining overall well-being. In the busyness of life, it is easy to neglect our own needs and prioritize the needs of others. However, taking time to rest, recharge, and care for ourselves is necessary for sustainable growth and flourishing. Whether indulging in a favorite hobby, spending time in nature, or simply practicing solitude and silence, self-care enables us to refuel our spirits and be fully present in every area of our lives.
Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. (3 JOHN 1:2 NIV)
As I continue this journey of leading women toward wellness in their body, mind, and soul, I pray that each one of us will experience the fullness of life God desires for us and walk in the freedom and wholeness that comes from being well with our souls.
Melissa is a wife and mom of tween and teen boys who are a huge inspiration in her life. She is a best-selling author who leads workshops and retreats to help women encounter a wellness journey and find rest and stillness amidst the busy lives they live so they can experience a peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7). She has been practicing holistic wellness as an entrepreneur for over ten years. Learn more from Melissa on all social media platforms @melissakesslerwellness or focus on wellness in the home @kesslerhomeanddesigns
