On Nurturing a Healthy Mind, Body, and Spirit
How can we shift our mindset from negative thinking to positive thinking? How do we transform our depressive thoughts into more joyful ones? How can we develop the habit of feeling worthy of love and belonging, maintaining optimism about our health and society, and recognizing goodness in ourselves and others? I’m certain that many of you have grappled with these questions.
My first answer to these questions lies in the act of “questioning” itself. In other words, we begin to find answers by acknowledging our thoughts and feelings—not denying them, but confronting them head-on. It is crucial to face reality and recognize our vulnerabilities, such as fear, doubt, and confusion. The scribe in this Sunday’s Gospel (Mark 12: 28-34) was unafraid to ask Jesus a question. He may have felt a sense of unworthiness, prompting him to ask Jesus which commandment is the greatest.
My second response is the importance of being vulnerable with someone you can trust—someone who listens to you, empathizes with your struggles, and does not judge you. Remember the old saying: a problem shared is a problem halved. There is much wisdom in finding a good friend or a soulmate with whom we can share both our anxieties and our joys. I recently read an article in a British newspaper about how trained laypeople can help others experience relief from their anxieties, serving as an alternative to therapy.
Another vital approach to nurturing a positive outlook is the daily practice of gratitude. You have heard me speak about identifying five things daily that you are grateful for. This exercise of recognizing the goodness in our lives and around us shifts our mindset to become more joyful and appreciative of life’s blessings.
Additionally, one effective way to lift ourselves out of a depressive mindset is to reach out to someone. Remember, we are hardwired for connection. Interacting or communicating with someone—even a stranger—through a smile or a friendly conversation can significantly boost your mood. It is no wonder that Jesus taught us that the second greatest commandment is to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. Acts of kindness, generosity, and other forms of altruism are beneficial to our well-being; they provide us with a deep sense of fulfillment and self-worth.
Ultimately, what helps us cultivate a joyful and peaceful spirit is a healthy relationship with God, who loves us unconditionally, assures us of our goodness and worthiness, and meets our needs. This is why developing an intimate relationship with God is essential. It is no surprise that the first commandment is to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength. Placing God at the center of our lives grants us peace and joy. Worshiping God leads us to become less self-absorbed, allowing us to surrender everything—our bodies, minds, and spirits—to Him.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
