#1: Spiritual WEllbeing - building a foundation of faith Whether it is religious or spiritual, having a faith can provide an anchor for the times when life feels chaotic, painful or uncertain.
Growing up, I couldn't have articulated where the deep felt sense of peace that permeated my life had come from, although spirituality was all around me. I just knew in my inexperienced mind, that I had a sense of peace that always helped me to know I could face anything. It added, an almost naivety, to my step, which might sound like a weakness, but I truly see it as a blessing. It wasn't until I faced some really difficult life challenges in my thirties, that I would begin to fully recognise the reason for my sureness during those trials. The strength I could summon seemingly from nowhere and even so, when all felt lost, would change the experience and trajectory of the situations! It turned out, that the faith I was exposed to as a child, mostly from my grandmother, had become a steadfast foundation that I would call upon over and over in my life and finally, knew how to name it and see it for its true value as I aged. Faith gives us a foundation to build our lives upon. This encourages us to know that there is a power greater, always watching over us. It's something we can trust in. Something which gives us a roots to feel grounded in and awe to the divine presence around us. This helps us to feel supported, especially during hard times. It gives us a reassured knowing that life has a higher meaning and purpose. And experiencing the sincere appreciation of a higher presence itself, can obliterate anxiety and improve neuro-chemicals that not even drugs can help. Faith can support your wellbeing in numerous ways due to its effect on your nervous system and neurochemistry. The best part of all, is that it can be done anywhere and doesn't cost a thing! How faith can reduce stress and anxiety.... • Engaging in prayer, meditation or spiritual reflection slows down the nervous system. It promotes a curious and inspired mind, which boosts feel-good neurotransmitters. • By encouraging surrender to a divine plan and higher power, it helps us to let go of what we cannot control and ease anxiety and pressure we naturally place upon ourselves as humans • Faith brings comfort and peace during times of grief, illness, difficulty and uncertainty How faith can improve motivation and positivity... • Feeling connected to others and being involved in a community of faith (whether it is online or in person) greatly increases the sense of purpose, meaning and belonging • Being part of faith based groups reduces loneliness and in engaging with others during faith based service in the community fosters purpose and a deep felt sense of joy • People who engage in faith based activities have lower rates of depression and substance abuse, they cope better with chronic illness or trauma and report greater optimism and life satisfaction How faith can give meaning to life, therefore improve quality of life... • Faith traditions all emphasise love, compassion, forgiveness and mercy which all transform a human away from suffering whether it is physical or mental • Faith encourages people to reflect on their values and live intentionally • Scripture, teachings or sacred texts offer guidance during difficult times and decisions and give meaning to suffering, therefore transforming pain into growth • Acting compassionately from a foundation of faith will increase dopamine and oxytocin - our 'feel good' hormones • Focusing on blessings instead of scarcity shifts your mindset and increases serotonin and other neurochemicals. So, where to begin? If you’re new to faith, this is actually a super exciting time to start exploring what feels right for you and brings you the most peace but also joy and happiness. If faith is something you are already practising, then this might be a nice reminder of the avenues faith can be explored and expressed. For me, I love listening to worship music the most as it brings me a true sense of relatability and understanding. Like I am definitely not alone and that no matter what, God’s got my back and loves me for who I am, human and all. Here are some simple faith practices that can bring a greater felt sense of wellbeing in your life:
There are numerous other ways to build a foundation of faith, but ultimately the presence of faith is paramount for calmness in the self and mind. This foundation, can then flow into our homes, our towns, our countries and beyond. Capturing this beautifully, is my favourite Chinese Proverb, since I was a young girl, reading: Where there is light in the soul, there will be beauty in the person. Where there is beauty in the person, there will be harmony in the house. Where there is harmony in the house, there will be order in the nation. Where there is order in the nation, There will be peace in the world. It all comes down to a strong, unshakeable foundation of faith to add meaning, depth and certainty to your life. The knock on effect of this, on your whole wellbeing is so understated and I truly believe that if humans could all come back to the surrender to and awe of faith, we would not be seeing the suffering we see in the world today. Because, while having faith doesn't mean life is always easy, it does mean, that you never walk alone through it. “Whether through prayer, scripture, community or simple inner trust, faith can nourish your soul and help you live with strength, meaning and peace”. If you want to lean into finding your faith and need assistance, definitely reach out to spiritual mentorship or counsel. Go gently, choose peace over pressure and remember that “With faith, all things are possible.” - Matthew 19:26. Yours in peace and joy, Jodie xx
0 Comments
|