SELF-CARE AND SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

In a world filled with concerns about how to survive, including paying rent, school fees, providing for our families, covering medical bills, and other monthly expenses, it is only natural that we focus on making money at the expense of our self-care and spiritual wellness. In addition to earning money, we have other responsibilities, such as taking care of our families, completing school assignments, and participating in church activities, which, when combined, can significantly drain our health and energy. I am no exception to these instances.

Irrespective of our busy schedule, our self-care should also be prioritized. Self-care means taking care of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of one’s life. It does not mean being selfish, but rather, very essential for one’s overall well-being. Our creator, in looking out for our well-being, has given us the sabbath as a day of rest from all our labors that make us weary (Genesis 2:1-3). Moreover, the interconnection of the different aspects of our well-being is beautifully summarized in 3 John 1:2, which states, "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," indicating that our overall well-being, encompassing the physical, emotional, and spiritual, is something to be valued and sought.  

Let’s explore taking care of our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects to promote our general well-being.

Physical activity

The core purpose of self-care is to prevent or control diseases and preserve overall well-being by consistently taking care of our health. Some of the ways to stay physically healthy include being physically active, eating well-balanced meals that are mostly whole foods, staying hydrated, engaging in relaxing activities that can help manage stress, getting enough sleep, and getting regular medical and dental care. We need to strike a balance in everything we do and keep in mind that “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

 Having a healthy body can help us to better serve God and others. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "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, honour God with your bodies" Taking care of our physical health, through nourishment and appropriate activity, allows us to live more fully and energetically. 

Mental and emotional self-care

It's important to have healthy coping skills to deal with uncomfortable emotions, like anger, anxiety, and sadness. Emotional self-care may include activities that help us acknowledge and express our feelings regularly and safely. Some emotional self-care activities include reading a book, yoga or meditation, talking to a trusted friend or family member, engaging in creative activities, spending time in nature, and setting aside time for personal reflections. Remember, Christ invites all who labour and are heavily burdened to come to him for rest, and take his yoke and learn from him, because he is meek and lowly in heart (Matthew 11:28-29). By giving our burden to Christ, we will find rest for our souls. We can commit our emotions and what triggers those emotions to Christ, to help us deal with the emotions.

Attending church and gatherings can help relieve some of the emotional issues we face. Sharing life with others, supporting one another, and seeking guidance from mentors or trusted friends are crucial for emotional well-being.  Isolation can be detrimental, while connection provides strength and support. The bible recommends that we come together to worship God and fellowship with others. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us to not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but to encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Acts 2:46 talks about the believers who every day continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.

It is necessary to seek professional health care if needed. If struggling with mental health challenges, don't hesitate to reach out for counselling or therapy. This should be seen as a natural resource in the same way one seeks medical help for physical illness. King Solomon reminds us that physicians´ gift of healing and skill is from God, and that God grants them success in diagnosis and healing for the sake of preserving life (Ecclesiastes 38:1-14).

Spiritual self-care

As we ponder on how to stay physically active and emotionally sound, our spiritual life shouldn’t be neglected. How do we actively nurture the delicate ecosystem of our spiritual hearts? It truly begins with carving out intentional moments to connect with God through prayer and His Word. Amid our often-frenetic lives, finding stillness becomes a powerful act. As Psalm 46:10 gently reminds us, "Be still, and know that I am God." Within those quiet spaces, free from the clamour of daily demands, we open ourselves to hear His gentle guidance, receive His comforting presence, and be reminded of His steadfast love. Just as our physical bodies require daily nourishment, our spirits thrive when we immerse ourselves in Scripture and other inspirational books. We are equipped with truth, offered a divine perspective on our circumstances, and the roots of our faith become deepened. Whether it's the quiet of a morning devotion, a reflective pause at midday, or an evening of contemplation, these dedicated moments are not obligations, but precious invitations to draw ever closer to the One who unfailingly sustains us.

As Christians, it is necessary to look at our relationship with Christ. Diligently searching the scriptures to understand and do what God has instructed us in his word will help give us peace and comfort the world cannot give us as Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." When we prioritize our spiritual growth, we position ourselves to receive the strength, wisdom, and peace that only God can provide, which in turn empowers us to navigate life's demands with grace and resilience.  

 Lifting our worries and cares to God and trusting in his divine providence will help relieve us of the burdens that are weighing us. We can have some peace of mind if we leave our worries to God and tell God to lead us to the right path. 

In conclusion, let us prioritise our self-care amidst the demands of daily life. Let us also remember that self-care does not mean one is selfish, but rather, is interested in his or her overall being. I would like to encourage us to seek professional help when needed and rely on God for support and peace.