Wellbeing

A Prayer for Wellbeing

Loving God, source of all life and healing, we offer ourselves to you—our tired bodies, our anxious minds, our hopeful spirits. Guide us on the path of wholeness. Help us to receive your grace in moments of stillness, to extend compassion to ourselves and our neighbors, and to work tirelessly for a world where all can flourish. Amen.

Wellbeing Initiative at St. Andrew

The Wellbeing initiative at St. Andrew focuses on intentionally addressing the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual needs of individuals to foster a thriving community.

At the heart of our faith is a God who desires abundant life for all creation (John 10:10). We understand this “abundant life” not as a static state of perfection, but as a dynamic, holistic journey toward wholeness—what we call wellbeing. At St. Andrew, wellbeing is the integrated flourishing of body, mind, spirit, and community, nurtured by God’s grace and directed toward love of neighbor and care for the world.

Key values:
• Everything is Connected: Our personal wellbeing is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of our community and the planet. We are part of the same sacred whole.
• Growth is a Process: We are always in a process of becoming. Setbacks, grief, and struggle are not signs of failure but part of the human journey, where God meets us with particular tenderness.
• We Co-Create with God: God invites us to be active partners in the healing of the world, contributing to the wholeness of our community and our neighbors.

Resources:
• The General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) – Health & Wholeness – Advocacy resources linking faith, justice, and public health
• The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church (2020/2024): Contains official stances on mental health and advocacy.
• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free, confidential support, 24/7

8 Dimensions of Wellness

Learning about the 8 Dimensions of Wellness can help you choose how to make wellness a part of your everyday life. Wellness strategies are practical ways to start developing healthy habits that can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health. Here are the 8 Dimensions of Wellness:
  1. Emotional – Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships
  2. Environmental – Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being
  3. Financial – Satisfaction with current and future financial situations
  4. Intellectual – Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills
  5. Occupational – Personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work
  6. Physical – Recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep
  7. Social – Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system
  8. Spiritual – Expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life
 
Source: SAMHSA.gov

The Listening Bench

Allison Mangus and Allison Bell discuss the launch of the Listening Bench as part of our Wellbeing Initiative