Reflecting on Health - Week One Insights

As the first week of my Health Coach Training Program comes to an end, I find myself immersed in a journey of discovery. The focus on reframing health has been illuminating, particularly given my previous simplistic views centered around 'exercise good, sugar bad'.

We dove right into defining health in four dimensions: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. I think physical health is widely understood, the nuances of mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being require more time to process and understand.

Mental health is not just your ability to meditate. It encompasses beliefs, self-narratives, and coping mechanisms in the face of adversity. Emotional wellness revolves around the ability to authentically feel and engage with the present moment, navigating daily emotions and interpersonal dynamics we encounter. Meanwhile, spiritual health delves into our sense of purpose, our connection to something greater than ourselves.

Reflecting on these definitions took time. While I pride myself on my strong beliefs, the reality of my relationship with stress and emotional upheaval demanded acknowledgment. Do I truly nurture my mental health amidst life's challenges? Do I confront stress head-on, or do I let it linger unattended?

Honest self-awareness is paramount. It requires the courage to confront our imperfections and the willingness to embark on a journey of self-improvement. Looking in the mirror I had to acknowledge that I do not nourish my mental, emotional, or spiritual health. I put my head in the sand and power through whatever adversity I am experiencing. Now that I understand I have the opportunity to learn and grow.

So now I extend an invitation to you, the reader, to join me in this introspective exercise. Choose one of the areas of health: mental, emotional, spiritual. Think about how you process stress, how you feel your emotions, or your sense of purpose. Take a moment to look in a mirror—not to scrutinize your appearance, but to reflect. Do you acknowledge when you are feeling stressed? How do you navigate daily emotions? Most importantly, what steps do you take to nourish your mental, emotional, or spiritual well-being amidst these feelings?

I invite you to share your insights and reflections with me via email. I would love to start talking to people about their journey of self-discovery and growth, fostering a community of support and understanding.

Until next time…