Skip to content Spirituality is a complex term, laden with varied connotations. It frequently evokes associations with a new age, anti-science, hippie lifestyle. However, within the Judeo-Christian worldview, spirituality, stemming from the root word ‘spirit,’ diverges from the commonly held perception of its use. This article aims to delve into spirituality and determine what is spiritual health and how to improve it. In short spiritual health encompasses your relationship with yourself, others, nature and God. Let’s explore this further and learn how to enhance your spiritual well being.
Defining Spirit
Biblically, the term “spirit” is not straightforward. In Hebrew, the fundamental word is “ruah,” signifying wind or breath. It represents the aspect of humanity that imparts life and strength, encompassing the will to live, emotions, and creative abilities. In the New Testament, the term “spirit,” or “pneuma,” may encompass the Hebrew concept of “ruah.” However, it also denotes the part of us that engages in communion with God and is frequently juxtaposed with the flesh. For further clarity, you can refer to this link on Biblestudytools.com.
With this in mind, the term “spirit” carries various meanings, even within the Christian faith. However, a common thread is that the spirit is the non-physical part of being human. It constitutes the aspect of our human experience that lacks tangibility; unlike skin, bones, and other physical elements.
Even if someone does not identify as spiritual or believe in a tangible concept of a spirit, it is challenging to deny the existence of non-physical aspects that constitute a human being. Elements such as aspirations, motivations, morality, purpose, and love. One could argue then that these intangible components define the essence of being human.
Defining Spiritual Health
With this in mind, how do we define spiritual health? Health is frequently associated with physical well-being, considering factors such as blood pressure, weight, a healthy diet, and the absence of disease. However, when we consider the spirit as the non-physical aspect of what we are, it prompts us to question the health of these intangible facets in our lives. Are our approaches to relationships, ambitions, and our passions in proper order? Is the non-physical dimension of our existence, which encompasses how we navigate these aspects, in a state of well-being?
As someone who perceives the world through a Christian worldview, spiritual health involves our connection with a higher power—God. What characterizes our relationship with God? Is it marked by resentment and bitterness, or is it defined by love and tenderness? For an atheist, how would their lack of belief in God impact their spiritual health? While an atheist can lead a fulfilling and virtuous life with healthy relationships and a moral lifestyle, if God does exist and created us for a relationship with Him, this dimension of existence understandably remains unfulfilled.
So spiritual health can be thought of in four broad categories. Our relationship with 1) ourselves, 2) others, 3) nature and 4) God.
1) Relationship with Ourselves
How do you perceive yourself? What is the state of your emotional health? Are you self-aware of both your positive attributes and your faults? What are your ambitions, and do you have a sense of purpose in life? What do you love, and what takes priority in your life? These questions are relevant to your spiritual well-being within your personal journey. Dysfunction arises when one views themselves inaccurately. This may manifest as a perception of having less worth or a lack of belief in oneself. Conversely, it could involve an overinflated view, where one believes the world revolves around them.
In regards to love priorities, we all experience love, but have you ever considered how you prioritize your affections? What is the core desire in your life, the driving force? Many individuals pursue financial success or harbor lofty career ambitions. While these pursuits are not inherently negative, placing them at the supreme position on your list of priorities can potentially be detrimental to your emotional well-being.
2) Relationship to Others
How we relate to others is a vital aspect of our human experience. As communal beings, we are created to thrive in relationships, whether with spouses, friends, parents, children, or neighbors. The manner in which we connect with others significantly influences our well-being. Are these relationships healthy? If you’re married, how do you perceive and relate to your spouse? What significance does marriage hold for you? In parenting, what role do you believe you play, and how do you approach it? How do you treat your neighbors and individuals of different social classes? When faced with wrongs, whether you’ve been wronged or have wronged others, how do you handle forgiveness, and what is your approach to dealing with toxic people? These facets collectively contribute to your spiritual health.
3) Relationship to Nature
How do you relate to your environment? Is it something to be consumed, or is it a responsibility we should take care of? How do we interact with animals? Our connection with the land and its inhabitants significantly impacts our overall health. Do you regularly immerse yourself in nature? Studies show that exposure to nature correlates with improved mental health, reduced pain, and lower stress levels. Some hospitals have recognized this and incorporated natural elements, such as planting trees in their facilities. How do you personally relate to nature?
4) Relationship to God
What is your spiritual connection with God? Do you adhere to a religious faith? Do you acknowledge the existence of a transcendent power? If not, what is your perspective on our origin as a species and the destination after our earthly existence? Moreover, how does this perspective influence your lifestyle choices? For those who believe in God, do you perceive a purpose assigned by Him? Are there specific decisions, actions, or ways of living that God desires from you? How do you characterize your view of God—is it one of love, punishment, or mercy? Lastly, does a profound understanding of God or a deeper connection with Him hold significance for the way you live?
Why Your Spiritual Health Matters
Your spiritual health is closely intertwined with overall human well-being, as it is linked to the fundamental aspects that hold true importance in our lives. Without this vital component, we risk reduced vitality, akin to a robotic existence. Our spiritual embodiment is intricately connected to our emotions, relationships, and our deepest values. When this facet of our lives is dysfunctional, the very best part of ourselves is affected by dysfunction.
The interconnection between spiritual health and mental well-being is evident, but it can also extend its influence to affect your physical health. Overall health is significantly influenced by lifestyle choices, encompassing decisions about diet, participation in various activities, and more. These decisions, in turn, are often shaped by your goals, desires, and what brings ultimate satisfaction—all of which are inherently spiritual matters.
As a physician, I’ve dealt with patients facing a myriad of health issues. However, when addressing the more foundational aspects of poor health, it often stems from an unhealthy spiritual perspective. For instance, when someone is attempting to adopt a healthier diet to manage their diabetes, it’s not uncommon to discover that the challenges they face in changing their food choices are rooted in a dysfunctional relationship with food. This may manifest as using food as a coping tool for stress or struggling to control primal cravings.
I recall a patient who couldn’t effectively manage her diabetes due to her inability to access her refrigerator and insulin because of hoarding behavior. Hoarding behaviors often trace back to financial insecurity in childhood and a need to cling to possessions. This fundamentally reflects a dysfunction of the spirit, impacting our sense of peace.
How to Cultivate and Improve Spiritual Health
Belief System
Now that we have defined spiritual health and its components, how do we attain spiritual well-being? There are various facets to consider, beginning with our belief system aligning with our lifestyle and desired way of living. For instance, if someone identifies as an atheist, does this worldview correspond with their actual life choices? While an atheist can undoubtedly be a moral individual, does their worldview encompass a commitment to caring for the weak and poor, if that is a significant aspect of their values? If there is a disparity, perhaps there exists a disconnect between their worldview and their beliefs about the world.
Furthermore, do you possess an accurate understanding of God? Is your view of God influenced by the relationship you had with your parents or negative experiences with the church? Evaluating this aspect is crucial for achieving overall well being.
Faith Community
Do you belong to a faith community? Once again, as communal beings, we shape our ways of living, find inspiration, and often derive motivation from others. Being a part of a social group that shares your views can enhance and improve your spiritual health.
Disconnect from Technology
Don’t get me wrong; I believe technology has played a crucial role in advancing our civilization. However, there are drawbacks to it. We have become excessively reliant on our devices, to the point where we forget how to live and enjoy life without our phones. It’s essential to disconnect once in a while—spend moments away from screens. Step outside and connect with nature, or simply take a walk. Engage in conversation with another human being. All these actions can contribute to enhancing your overall sense of physical and mental health as well as spiritual wellness.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is not a new age practice, so there’s no need to fear any connotations associated with this word. It’s merely about quieting your mind and being self-aware—paying attention to your feelings, your body, and your surroundings in the present moment. This can be incorporated into prayer, serving as a valuable spiritual exercise.
Evaluate your Relationships
Do you have toxic relationships in your life? Are you perhaps the toxic influence in your relationships? Is there anyone you need to forgive or seek forgiveness from? Do you possess the ability to forgive, for that matter? These are profoundly personal questions that should be reflected upon for one to live well.
Focus on your Emotional Health
Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? If so, delve deep into the root of these problems. Frequently, understanding the underlying issues can provide enlightenment about yourself and not only lead to better mental health but also remove the barrier to spiritual peace. If you find it challenging to manage, talk to your doctor about your mental health. Addressing mental health often constitutes a crucial step toward achieving wholeness.
Conclusions
In essence, spiritual health is the often-overlooked cornerstone of our overall well-being, intricately connected to our relationships, mental state, and physical health. While rooted in diverse perspectives, it encompasses our connections with ourselves, others, nature, and with God. Cultivating spiritual health involves a multifaceted approach. As we navigate the complexities of modern life we should aim to prioritize our spiritual health in our lives.
