We have talked about these qualities of personality (Mind, Will, & Emotion) and about the body as though they were separate entities. This is usually done for the sake of clarifying how each one works and how to address problems that arise.
However, the truth is that they are each intimately related to the other. The body influences the personality and is influenced by the personality.
There exists a cyclical and reciprocal interaction between all 4 elements.
It might look like this:
________________________BODY
______________MIND _______________WILL
_______________________EMOTION
Now, since I can't figure out how to make lines between these components, imagine lines going back and forth between each. The mind influences and is influenced by the the body. The emotion is influenced by and influences the body, and etc.
For example:
Poor thinking (wrong or inaccurate thoughts) can lead to bad behavior that can lead to bad feelings that can lead to poor health.
Negative or inappropriate feelings can lead to bad thinking to bad behaviors to poor health.
Poor health can lead to bad feelings to bad thinking to bad behavior.
Bad behavior can lead to bad feelings to bad thinking to poor health.
No matter where you start, errors in one arena will interact with and influence other arenas.
So what can we do about problems?
Personally, I like to start with the body. When emotional problems arise, I suggest that a person do a thorough self-examination of their overall health. Are you getting enough sleep? Are you getting enough of the right kind of nutrition? Are you getting enough exercise? If these appear normal, get a physical. Many emotional problems can arise because of health issues such as thyroid abnormalities or blood sugar issues.
When this is ruled out, you might move on to a self evaluation of your behaviors or your thinking.
Sometimes it takes an objective third party to help you through this evaluative process. Someone has said that the nature of blind spots is that we are blind to them! We sometimes need help.
Holistic health involves caring for our bodies, keeping our thinking as accurate as possible, monitoring our emotions, and behaving in ways that are consistent with the desires and commands of our Creator.
Hoping this has been helpful...
