If you’re like me, you have to put everything on a calendar to remember all of life’s busyness. We write down everything from volunteer obligations, to parties, shopping excursions, entertainment, upcoming visits with family and friends, and doctor’s appointments. At the end of the calendar year, I have a 12-page diary of the past 365 days of our lives. After all is said and done, I feel exhausted, frustrated, and dissatisfied. Especially when certain entries on the calendar compete for time.
According to Sarita Soares, M.D., in her article Wellness of the Mind, Body, & Spirit, “It can be incredibly challenging to focus on our faith when worldly distractions feel more immediate and tangible. That’s why actually scheduling prayer, meditation, and self-care is so crucial.” Dr. Soares adds that scientific evidence supports the importance of the benefits of prayer, mindfulness and gratitude in association with our physical well-being. Dr. Soares refers to this as “holistic wellness.” Although many science experiments are inconclusive with the actual healing of human maladies, it does not dispute the benefits of prayer and meditation to alleviate mindful stress and cardio-pulmonary tension.
There have been many nights where I lay awake while stressful thoughts disrupt my sleep. After tossing and turning for what seems like hours, I start praying the rosary, which for me, is one of the most peaceful prayers. The repetitive “Hail Mary’s” serve as the calming meditation my mind is needing. We shouldn’t limit our praying to the church pew. Dr. Soares suggests “transforming downtime such as driving or waiting in line into conversations with Jesus and observing my interior self.” Soares explains that without a balance of physical well-being with mental health and internal peace, many of us feel frustrated and distressed.
Finally, Dr. Soares says “As Catholics, we are so lucky to recognize that the antidote to these desolations lies in our faith and God’s love and grace for us.” Amen!
By Christine Smits
Health & Wellness Committee Member