Minister Sonya Hosey
Our emotional
wellness is tested
every day. As you
look around, there are times
when life can be difficult.
We must quickly recognize
how these experiences can
impact us positively or
negatively.
It is time that we look at our
wellness holistically. The
SAMSHA defines wellness in eight dimensions:
emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical,
environmental, financial, occupational, and social. I
have encountered women who have had
challenges with more than half of these areas. For
example, we may have lost our job (occupational);
which may cause depression (emotional); which
may contribute to medical challenges (physical),
which then creates isolation (social). Which could
create a distance between you and God, affecting
our spiritual health. Before you know it, you are
wondering, how did I get here? Do you see how this
works? Do you know how the vicissitudes of life can
spiral down so quickly?
Instead of ignoring them, take the time to slow down,
breathe, and reevaluate your wellness. It is
okay to
not feel well every now and then – eat your favorite
ice cream sprinkled with chocolate. However, do not
stay there. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is
sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in
weakness.” That means we can still have gratitude
for our weaknesses. When you are at peace, you
have more joy. With joy, you have good health. With
good health, you are now ready to face any
challenges. These are opportunities for growth,
gratitude, healing, and restoration.
Therefore, we must recognize all aspects of life’s wellness instead of bypassing others. It will take one
breath, one moment, one day at a time.
Reference: SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Services Administration) – Eight Dimensions of Wellness
UJIMA MAGAZINE 