How to Identify and Heal the Emotions Stored Inside You

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Updated: April 21, 2025

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Body Story: How Do Emotions Show Up in Our Body and What is Your Body Story?

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There are parts of your story you’d rather not share. Hidden chapters. Silent struggles. Often, these chapters involve our bodies. The vessels that carry the narrative of our lives. Have you ever wondered, “How do emotions show up in our body?”

Your body silently stores and expresses the stories you haven’t spoken out loud. But the good news? Your story isn’t finished yet.

How Emotions Show Up in Our Body

Our bodies communicate emotions vividly, often more honestly and profoundly than our words ever could. Think about the times you’ve felt stressed: your shoulders instinctively rise, bearing an invisible weight of responsibility. When fear creeps in, it lodges itself deep within your stomach, creating that familiar knot, an ache that seems to anchor you to anxiety. Shame doesn’t simply pass through it grips your chest tightly, constricting your breath, forcing your posture to shrink inward, almost as if you’re trying to become invisible.

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, in his groundbreaking work The Body Keeps the Score (2014), explores the undeniable connection between our emotional experiences and physical bodies. His extensive research reveals that emotional traumas don’t merely fade away; instead, they find refuge deep within our bodies, manifesting years later as chronic pain, heightened anxiety, and persistent physical tension. These unresolved emotional burdens can remain embedded in our muscles, joints, and even nervous system, silently influencing our health long after we’ve consciously forgotten the initial event.

Our bodies remember everything, even the stories our minds desperately seek to forget. Each ache, pain, and sensation can be a silent testament to unresolved emotional experiences.

Our personal stories profoundly shape our identities, decisions, and relationships. According to psychologists James Pennebaker and Joshua Smyth (2016), when emotional narratives remain unresolved, they don’t merely linger quietly. They manifest physically, influencing our health, interactions, and perceptions of the world. Unaddressed stories of pain and trauma can perpetuate cycles of dysfunction and emotional distress. But, when we courageously confront and process these hidden stories, we set in motion a transformative healing process that impacts not only our emotional well-being but our physical health as well. Confronting these narratives isn’t just emotionally liberating; it’s physically restorative.

Our bodies remember everything, even when we consciously try to forget.

What is Your Body Story?

Your body story is a powerful narrative composed of your physical and emotional experiences. Just like a book, your body carries characters, conflicts, plots, and even twists. Perhaps the antagonist in your story is chronic illness, shame about your appearance, or past trauma. Maybe the setting was your childhood home, a critical remark from someone you loved, or a painful experience you’ve been silently carrying.

Consider the key parts of any story:

  • Characters: Who influenced your body image and self-perception? Family? Friends? Media?
  • Setting: Where were you when you first felt shame about your body?
  • Plot: What event triggered your feelings of inadequacy?
  • Conflict: What struggle do you continue to carry physically and emotionally?
  • Theme: What belief has shaped your view of your body?
  • Mood: How does your body feel right now—tense, relaxed, fearful, hopeful?

The beauty is that every story can experience a plot twist.

Does the Cover Tell the Whole Story?

We often judge books and ourselves by their covers. We use metaphorical fig leaves, just like Adam and Eve, to hide the places we’re ashamed of (Genesis 3:7). These fig leaves might be clothing choices, makeup, filters, achievements, or excessive busyness. These covers might offer temporary relief, but they don’t heal the underlying narrative.

Just as 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” God’s interest in our stories goes far deeper than surface appearances.

How Does a Story Impact Us?

Our personal stories profoundly shape our identities, decisions, and relationships. Psychologists note that unresolved emotional narratives lead to physical and emotional complications, impacting how we interact with the world (Pennebaker & Smyth, 2016). But when we bravely confront these stories, we initiate a healing process that transforms not just our minds, but our bodies too.

Offering a Plot Twist

The greatest plot twist is allowing God, the original author, to rewrite your body story. Radical individualism tempts us to believe we’re the sole authors of our lives. But God’s Word reminds us: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

You can surrender your pen to Him. Imagine replacing shame with redemption, anxiety with peace, and insecurity with divine confidence. When God authors your story, every chapter, painful or joyful, serves a higher purpose.

Achievement Identity and Your Value

Our culture often equates value with achievements, appearance, and external validation. We strive for approval, hoping our successes will rewrite the narrative of inadequacy. Yet, God’s truth stands firm:

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5).

You were valuable before you accomplished anything. Your virtue is not tied to your achievements but to your identity as God’s beloved.

The Surprising Link Between Your Health and Identity in Christ (It’s More Than Willpower)

What is God’s Story About You?

The most crucial part of your body story isn’t merely the scars you’ve accumulated or the victories you’ve earned. It’s about the depth and intensity of God’s love for you. Psalm 139:14 beautifully encapsulates this divine truth:

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

God’s perspective of your body story is not one of shame, guilt, or inadequacy. Rather, He views your body as His intentional masterpiece, crafted meticulously and lovingly designed with profound purpose. Your story every scar, every triumph is something He delights in redeeming, transforming what was once painful into something powerfully beautiful.

Are You Ready to write the new chapter of Your Story?

Today, consider embracing your body story. The messy, complicated, yet profoundly beautiful narrative it is. Instead of carrying the weight of emotional burdens alone, invite God into your journey of healing. Allow His love to penetrate the wounds you’ve tightly held onto. Imagine the freedom that awaits when you release the burdens you’ve carried for so long, trusting in God’s promise of redemption. Your story isn’t set in stone; it’s open to transformation. You have the opportunity to write a new chapter to your narrative, guided and empowered by God’s grace and truth.

Call to Action:

Join “Reclaim Your Temple” – embark on a transformative 12-week journey that integrates faith, fitness, and emotional healing. Together, in a supportive community, rewrite your body story grounded in God’s truth. [Learn More and Register Here]

Attend the RW Health Summit – immerse yourself in two empowering days crafted to radically transform your understanding of health, wholeness, and your identity in Christ. Experience deep, transformative healing alongside others committed to this sacred journey. [Discover More Here]

References

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The Surprising Link Between Your Health and Identity in Christ (It’s More Than Willpower)

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Updated: April 8, 2025

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What God Says About You: Why Identity in Christ Is the Missing Piece in Your Health Journey

“I just need more discipline.”
“If I looked like her, I’d be motivated.”
“I’ll start over on Monday—again.”

How many times have we whispered or screamed these words in frustration? If you’ve ever been trapped in a cycle of self-sabotage, emotional eating, or burnout from trying to “fix” yourself, you’re not alone. But here’s a truth that transformed my health journey—and the lives of countless women I coach:

Your identity shapes your habits. And your identity is rooted in what God says about you—not what the world reflects back.

Why Does Identity Impact Your Health?

When we talk about health, we usually focus on external changes—losing weight, eating clean, staying active. While these are valuable, they’re incomplete. The world tells us that health is about aesthetics and achievements. But God starts deeper. He addresses the heart.

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Your beliefs about who you are (your identity) flow into how you live. If you believe you’re broken, you will behave from that brokenness. If you believe you’re beloved, redeemed, and chosen, you’ll start living like someone who is loved, valued, and worthy of care.

And that’s where health begins—not with willpower, but with identity alignment.

A Christian woman journaling her health journey through prayer and Scripture, connecting body and spirit.

What Does God Say About Your Identity?

Let’s break the cycle of shame and striving with truth.

  1. You are made in the image of God. “So God created mankind in his own image,
        in the image of God he created them;
        male and female he created them.”     – Genesis 1:27

This truth redefines how we view our bodies. Your body isn’t a problem to fix—it’s a temple, a vessel, and a mirror reflecting the Creator. That alone demands reverence, not rejection.

  1. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
        your works are wonderful,I know that full well.”     – Psalm 139:14

No number on a scale, no pant size, and no wrinkle erases this truth. God took great care crafting you. How might your health habits change if you truly believed this?

  1. You are chosen, holy, and dearly loved. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12

Our health is not just physical—it’s relational and spiritual. And it starts by clothing ourselves in compassion, not comparison.

This isn’t just Scripture—it’s identity-shaping truth.

Black woman before and after weight loss

How Misplaced Identity Sabotages Our Health

Many of us start wellness journeys thinking, If I just lose the weight, I’ll love myself. But that thinking puts identity on the other side of effort. It puts worthiness on the other side of perfection.

That’s the world’s lie. And it’s exhausting.

According to Dr. Caroline Leaf, a Christian neuroscientist, “When your mindsets are toxic—full of guilt, shame, or fear—it negatively impacts your brain and your body.” In her book “Switch On Your Brain,” she explains how our thoughts literally shape our physical and emotional health through a process called neuroplasticity.

God wired our brains to renew.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2

Identity renewal isn’t a one-time download—it’s a daily surrender, a spiritual discipline that informs our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Identity-Rooted Habits Lead to Sustainable Health

Once we internalize who God says we are, our health choices shift from self-punishment to self-stewardship.

Consider this:

  • A woman who knows she is a temple of the Holy Spirit doesn’t fuel herself with junk out of habit; she nourishes her body with joy, not guilt.
  • A woman who walks in freedom in Christ doesn’t strive for perfection but embraces grace in progress.
  • A woman who believes she is valuable doesn’t wait for a number on the scale to tell her how to feel; she walks in confidence and treats herself accordingly.

In fact, a 2018 study published in The Journal of Health Psychology found that self-compassion was a significant predictor of long-term health behaviors like exercise, balanced eating, and sleep. This echoes Biblical truth—compassion, grace, and truth produce the fruit of sustainable change.

So, What Does God-Defined Identity Have to Do with Health?

Everything.

  • It determines whether you diet or dwell in wellness.
  • It shapes whether you hustle or heal.
  • It defines whether you live for appearance or abide in purpose.

When we embrace God’s voice over our own inner critic, we stop living like slaves to our bodies and start stewarding them as temples of His glory.

“You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

How to Align Your Identity with God’s Truth

Here’s a practical framework you can begin today:

  1. Pause and Reflect
    Ask yourself: Where am I living from a false identity? Where am I performing instead of abiding?
  2. Renew Your Mind Daily
    Replace lies with truth. Write down Scriptures like those mentioned above and declare them aloud. Use them as affirmations to retrain your mind.
  3. Move with Meaning
    Exercise not to shrink yourself, but to celebrate your strength, release stress, and honor the body God gave you.
  4. Eat with Intention
    Nourish your body as a form of worship—not restriction. Invite God into your choices. Ask, Lord, what does honoring You with my plate look like today?
  5. Rest in Grace
    If you miss a workout, overeat, or fall into old patterns, don’t spiral into shame. Grace is your foundation, not your fallback.

Your Health Journey is a Spiritual One

Health is not separate from your walk with God—it’s an extension of it. It’s a byproduct of living as His beloved. You don’t need another diet or detox. You need deeper discipleship in how you view your body, your worth, and your purpose.

So, what does identity (what God says) have to do with your health?
Absolutely everything.

When your identity is rooted in Christ, your habits become fruit—not forced behavior.

And as you walk this out, remember:

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10

That full life includes your body, mind, and spirit. You are loved, whole, and worthy of wellness—not because you earned it, but because He said so.

Ready to root your health in truth?

Let’s walk in identity, not insecurity—together.

Join me at the Revelation Wellness Health Summit where I’ll be speaking on how your body carries your story and how God brings healing through movement, Scripture, and identity. You’ll experience community, worship, and tools to align your health with your faith like never before.

Reserve your spot here: www.rwhealthsummit.org
Don’t wait—spaces fill up fast!

And while you’re here, drop a comment and tell me:
What is God teaching you about your health right now?

Let’s reclaim our temples together.

Drop a comment and tell me what God is teaching you about your health journey.
Take a look at the bottom right-hand corner of your screen and don’t forget to subscribe for more Scripture-based encouragement!

References:
Leaf, C. (2015). Switch on your brain: The key to peak happiness, thinking, and health. Baker Books. https://www.drleaf.com

Harvard Health Publishing. (n.d.). The power of self-compassion. Harvard Medical School. Retrieved April 5, 2025, from https://www.health.harvard.edu

Neff, K. (2011). Self-compassion: The proven power of being kind to yourself. William Morrow.

Revelation Wellness®. (n.d.). Faith-based fitness and wellness training. Retrieved April 5, 2025, from https://www.revelationwellness.org

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How to meditate as a Chrisitan?

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Posted: March 31, 2025

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There are Amazon links. I get compensated for Amazon links. See my full disclosure policy.

“I have more insight than all my teachers because your decrees are my meditation.” — Psalm 119:99 (CSB)

black woman reading bible on mat

In the constant buzz of life, finding peace can feel nearly impossible. Schedules fill quickly. Minds race. Hearts get weary. We long for stillness but often don’t know how to reach it.

Christian meditation and breath prayer offer us a quiet, sacred place to breathe, reflect, and realign with God.

These aren’t trendy mindfulness tactics. They’re ancient, powerful, and deeply rooted in Scripture.

Understanding Christian Meditation

Christian meditation isn’t about emptying your mind. It’s about filling it—with God’s truth, His promises, and His presence.

The Hebrew word for “meditate” in Psalm 119:99 is siyach, meaning to ponder, muse, or even speak aloud. This isn’t passive—it’s active reflection. It’s engaging your heart and mind with the living Word of God.

As Donald Whitney writes in Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life (1991), “Meditation is deep thinking on the truths and spiritual realities revealed in Scripture for the purposes of understanding, application, and prayer.”

Jesus modeled stillness. Often, He withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16, Mark 1:35). Though the Gospels don’t say He meditated, His life was steeped in prayerful presence. We’re invited to do the same.

Psalm 1 tells us the one who meditates on God’s Word day and night is like a tree—firm, fruitful, and rooted.

Biblical Meditation Techniques

Here’s how to begin:

  1. Choose Scripture – Start with a passage that speaks to your current season (Psalm 23, Romans 8, or Philippians 4:6-7).
  2. Read and Reflect – Slowly read it aloud or silently. Let it linger.
  3. Breathe and Repeat – Pair the verse with your breath.
  4. Pray It Back – Let it guide your dialogue with God.
  5. Pause and Listen – Rest in stillness, letting God speak to your heart.

This isn’t a checklist. It’s a spiritual rhythm.

Breath Prayer Practice: A Simple Way to Anchor Your Soul

Breath prayer connects body, mind, and spirit.

It’s simple:

  • Inhale: “Be still…”
  • Exhale: “…and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)

Or:

  • Inhale: “Lord Jesus Christ…”
  • Exhale: “…have mercy on me.”

This rhythm calms your nervous system and centers your thoughts on God.

“The discipline of meditation introduces the mind to the Word of God, giving it a point of focus to settle upon.”

Dr. Dallas Willard

Incorporate this throughout your day—at the sink, on a walk, or during quiet moments. Let your breath become a prayer.

The Science Behind It

Neuroscience supports what Scripture has always shown: meditation rewires the brain.

Dr. Caroline Leaf, a Christian cognitive neuroscientist, writes in Switch On Your Brain (2015), “When you meditate on the Word of God, you are activating the brain’s default mode network, enhancing introspection, compassion, and moral reasoning.”

Romans 12:2 tells us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Biblical meditation supports that renewal; spiritually and neurologically.

And breath prayer? It activates your parasympathetic nervous system, calming anxiety and helping you live from a place of peace.

Psalm 119: A Guide for the importance of God’s Word

Psalm 119 is filled with love for God’s Word. It mentions meditation often. Showing us this isn’t a side practice. It’s central.

Verse 99 captures it beautifully: “I have more insight than all my teachers, for I meditate on your statutes.”

Insight comes not from noise but from nearness. Not from constant motion, but from consistent meditation.

Check out my post on how to use Scripture to pray?

How to use your Bible to pray with Scripture?

Starting Your Practice

Try this today:

  • Find a quiet space.
  • Choose one verse.
  • Pair it with your breath.
  • Meditate. Reflect. Journal.

Example:

  • Inhale: “Your Word is a lamp…”
  • Exhale: “…to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

Repeat for 5–10 minutes. Let it sink in.

Benefits of Christian Meditation and Breath Prayer

  • Deepened intimacy with God
  • Mental clarity and peace
  • Spirit-led insight and direction
  • Emotional and neurological healing
  • A lifestyle of abiding, not striving

This isn’t just spiritual—it’s holistic. As 1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, God desires to sanctify our body, soul, and spirit.

Christian Meditation for anxiety

Anxiety can feel suffocating. It crowds the mind. It tightens the chest. It steals peace and replaces it with fear. But God has not called us to live that way.

Through Christian meditation, believers can interrupt the cycle of anxious thinking and root themselves in the steady presence of the Lord. It’s not magic. It’s not a quick fix. But it is powerful, spiritual, and deeply healing.

How to Boost Mental Wellness

The Bible Speaks to Anxiety

Scripture never denies the reality of anxious moments. Instead, it offers comfort, guidance, and tools to manage them.

“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6 (CSB)

Christian meditation allows us to actually do this verse. To pause, pray, breathe, and bring our anxious thoughts under the truth of God’s Word.

Realignment Over Reactions

Anxiety thrives in chaos and disconnection. Christian meditation reconnects you—with God, with your breath, and with truth. It reminds you who you are, and more importantly, who He is.

When we fix our thoughts on Him, something shifts.
We breathe differently.
We see differently.
We respond differently.

We go from panic to prayer. From stress to stillness. From anxiety to assurance.

🌿 Ready to Breathe Again?

If anxiety has been ruling your thoughts, I want to invite you to a gentle, guided experience:

Join me for Breathe & Believe: A 7-Day Biblical Meditation Journey.

Each day you’ll receive:

  • A powerful Scripture to meditate on
  • A breath prayer to help you find stillness
  • A reflection prompt to renew your mind in God’s truth

You’ll experience how just 10–15 minutes a day can restore peace, quiet your soul, and help you stand in the confidence of Christ.

Click here to start your 7-day journey now!

You don’t have to strive for peace. Just make space for it. God is already near. He’s already speaking. Let’s quiet the noise and listen—one sacred breath at a time.

References

Leaf, C. (2015). Switch on your brain: The key to peak happiness, thinking, and health. Baker Books.

Whitney, D. S. (1991). Spiritual disciplines for the Christian life. NavPress.

Willard, D. (2002). Renovation of the heart: Putting on the character of Christ. NavPress.

BibleGateway The Holy Bible, (Scriptures: Psalm 46:10; Psalm 119:99, 105; Luke 5:16; Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; John 15:4; Joshua 1:8, Php 4:6)

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Unforgiveness is Making You Sick: How to Heal Your Body and Soul

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Posted: March 18, 2025

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Have you ever felt weighed down, not just in your spirit but in your body? That heavy, stuck feeling that no diet, exercise, or detox can seem to shake? It might not be what you’re eating. It might be what you’re holding on to.

Unforgiveness is one of the most toxic burdens we can carry. It seeps into every part of our being our minds, our bodies, and our spirits often without us realizing its full impact. Science confirms what Scripture has already told us: harboring bitterness can have devastating effects on our health. But the good news? Jesus came to set us free.

If you are holding onto resentment, pain, or past wounds, today is the day to lay them down. Let’s explore what unforgiveness does to our health and how we can walk in true healing and wholeness.

The Effect of Unforgiveness on Your Body

Many of us think of unforgiveness as an emotional or spiritual issue, but research shows that it’s deeply connected to our physical health. When we hold on to resentment, our bodies bear the burden in very real ways.

1. Increased Stress and Cortisol Levels

Unforgiveness triggers the body’s stress response, flooding our system with cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones are helpful in short bursts, prolonged elevation can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain (especially around the abdomen), suppressed immune function, and increased risk of heart disease.

A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that people who struggle with forgiveness experience higher stress levels, which in turn affect their overall well-being (Toussaint, Shields, & Slavich, 2016). The Bible warns us about the corrosive power of bitterness:

“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” – Proverbs 19:11 (NIV)

When we let go of offenses, we don’t just honor God—we unburden ourselves from unnecessary stress.

2. Chronic Pain and Muscle Tension

Ever noticed that some emotions feel physically heavy? Unforgiveness often manifests in chronic muscle tension, headaches, and even conditions like fibromyalgia. A study in Psychological Science revealed that people who struggle to forgive report more physical ailments and pain-related complaints (Carson et al., 2005).

Jesus calls us to release these burdens, not just for spiritual reasons but for our own well-being:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Rest doesn’t just mean more sleep—it means relief from the unseen weight of bitterness.

3. Increased Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke

Unforgiveness is directly linked to cardiovascular issues. Research from Johns Hopkins Medicine shows that long-term resentment increases blood pressure and heart disease risk (Vlachopoulos, Kosmopoulou, & Stefanadis, 2004). The body interprets unforgiveness as a threat, keeping us in a prolonged state of “fight or flight.”

The Bible offers a powerful counter to this:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)

Holding onto unforgiveness hardens our hearts—both spiritually and physically. Releasing resentment isn’t just about obedience; it’s about life and vitality.

The Affect of Unforgiveness on Your Mind and Spirit

Beyond the physical toll, unforgiveness affects our emotional and spiritual health in ways that can block our healing and hinder our relationship with God.

1. Mental Fog and Anxiety

When we replay offenses in our minds, we create mental exhaustion. Studies in Frontiers in Psychology show that ruminating on negative experiences impairs cognitive function and increases symptoms of anxiety and depression (Worthington, 2006).

Paul reminds us to renew our minds:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2 (NIV)

A renewed mind cannot dwell in the past; it must step into the healing power of forgiveness.

2. Disconnection from God’s Presence

Jesus made it clear that forgiveness is a foundational part of our faith:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” – Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV)

Unforgiveness blocks intimacy with God. We cannot fully receive His grace while withholding it from others.

3. Hindered Healing and Growth

Many of us pray for breakthroughs in our health, relationships, or spiritual life, but we’re unknowingly blocking that breakthrough by clinging to resentment. The Holy Spirit is a healer, but He won’t force us to let go of what we insist on holding.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

Healing begins when we stop looking back and start trusting God with the future.

My Personal Journey with Forgiveness

I’ve been there holding onto past hurts, justifying my bitterness, and believing I was protecting myself by not letting go. But instead of guarding my heart, I was imprisoning it. I was exhausted, burdened, and struggling physically. It wasn’t until I fully surrendered my unforgiveness to Jesus that I experienced true healing.

Forgiveness didn’t erase the pain, but it freed me from being controlled by it. It allowed me to experience God’s peace in a way I never had before. And friend, if He can do it for me, He can do it for you.

When Peter asked Jesus how many times we should forgive, Jesus didn’t set a limit:

“Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’” – Matthew 18:22 (NIV)

Forgiveness is not a one-time event; it’s a lifestyle. It’s choosing freedom over bitterness every single day.

Practical Tools and Techniques to Let Go of Unforgiveness

Healing from unforgiveness isn’t always instant. It’s a process that requires intentionality and reliance on God’s strength. Here are some practical ways to work through it:

1. Prayer and Surrender

Start with an honest conversation with God. Tell Him about your hurt, your anger, and your struggle to forgive. Pray for strength to release the pain and trust Him for justice.

“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” – Matthew 6:12 (NIV)

2. Scripture Meditation

Fill your heart and mind with God’s Word. Meditate on verses about forgiveness and healing. Write them down, speak them aloud, and memorize them.

Recommended Scriptures: Matthew 18:22, Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:31-32

3. Journaling

Write down your feelings. Journaling helps bring clarity and allows you to process emotions in a healthy way. Try writing letters to the person who hurt you (without sending them) as a way to release the pain.

4. Christian Counseling

Sometimes, healing requires guidance. Seeking a Christian counselor or pastor for biblical support and emotional processing can be incredibly helpful.

5. Gratitude Practice

Focus on God’s blessings instead of your wounds. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. Gratitude shifts our perspective from pain to peace.

6. Speak Life Over Your Situation

Avoid rehearsing your pain. Speak life, healing, and restoration instead. Declare God’s truth over your emotions:

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

7. Physical Release

Unforgiveness is stored in the body. Movement, deep breathing, and stretching can help release tension. Walking, yoga, or worship dance are great ways to embody healing.

8. Choose to Forgive Daily

Forgiveness is not a one-time event. It’s a daily decision. Every time bitterness tries to creep back in, remind yourself of your choice to let go.

“Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’” – Matthew 18:22 (NIV)

Are You Ready for True Healing?

If you’re ready to break free from the chains of unforgiveness, I invite you to take the next step toward healing. The Revelation Wellness Health Summit is designed to help you reclaim your health—body, mind, and spirit—so you can live in the fullness of God’s freedom.

At this powerful event, you’ll learn from leading faith-based health experts, engage in transformative worship, and experience breakthroughs in your wellness journey.

Join us at www.rwhealthsummit.org and start your journey to total healing!

Friend, you don’t have to live burdened by the past. Jesus offers freedom, and it starts with letting go. Will you take the step today?

Let’s pray:

“Lord, I surrender my unforgiveness to You. I don’t want to carry this weight anymore. Heal my heart, restore my body, and renew my spirit. I trust You to bring justice and peace. Thank You for the freedom You offer me in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Now go and walk in the freedom Jesus has already won for you!

Reference List

  1. Toussaint, L. L., Shields, G. S., & Slavich, G. M. (2016). The associations between forgiveness and inflammatory markers: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 39(6), 782-794.
  2. Carson, J. W., Keefe, F. J., Lynch, T. R., Carson, K. M., Goli, V., & Fras, A. M. (2005). Forgiveness and chronic low back pain: A preliminary study examining the relationship of forgiveness to pain, anger, and psychological distress. Journal of Pain, 6(2), 84-91.
  3. Vlachopoulos, C., Kosmopoulou, F., & Stefanadis, C. (2004). Stress and cardiovascular disease: Physiological effects of stress-related mechanisms. Hellenic Journal of Cardiology, 45(5), 200-206.
  4. Worthington, E. L., Jr. (2006). Forgiveness and reconciliation: Theory and application. Routledge.
  5. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Forgiveness: Your health depends on it. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org
  6. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Forgiveness: Letting go of grudges and bitterness. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
  7. Bible, New International Version (NIV). Various scriptures cited from BibleGateway https://www.biblegateway.com
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How Do You Know You Need a Holistic Health Practitioner?

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Updated: February 20, 2025

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The world prioritizes quick fixes over deep healing, and many of us are left wondering, 

“Why do I still feel off, even though I’m doing all the right things?” 

From unexplained fatigue to emotional burnout, it can be hard to know where to turn when traditional solutions no longer work.

That’s where I come in. I’m a holistic health practitioner. The knowledge and credentials I’ve acquired over the years have led me to where I am today.

A holistic health practitioner doesn’t just focus on the symptoms you’re experiencing. We focus on you as a whole person: body, mind, and spirit. Research has shown that holistic approaches can lead to improved health outcomes by addressing the root causes of disease rather than just masking symptoms (Dossey, 2016).

But how do you know if working with a holistic health practitioner is right for you? And what’s the difference between a general health coach and a Christian holistic health coach? Let’s break it down.

1. You’re Tired of the Band-Aid Solutions

You’ve tried the supplements.
You’ve followed the food trends.
You’ve invested in apps, fitness trackers, and every “5 Easy Ways to Lose Weight” article out there. Followed the influencers, “5 exercises to your goal body”

Yet, you still feel off and still waiting for those five exercises to keep their promise.

That’s because real healing happens when we go deeper. Holistic health practitioners aim to uncover the root causes of stress, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, or emotional pain. According to the Institute for Functional Medicine, focusing on root causes leads to more sustainable health outcomes (Jones, 2010).

Stress is stalling your Weight Loss Goals

If you’re tired of treating symptoms and ready for lasting change, it might be time to work with a holistic health practitioner and I’d love for us to set up a goal consult and see if we’re a good match.

2. You Feel Disconnected from Your Body

Ever feel like your body is trying to send you signals, but you can’t figure out what it’s saying?

  • Chronic fatigue that coffee can’t fix
  • Aches, pains, and tension without a clear reason
  • Mood swings and emotional ups and downs

These are all signs that something deeper may be going on. Holistic practitioners help you tune into your body’s wisdom. They use techniques like mindful movement, nutrition, and stress management to help you reconnect and heal.

A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine highlights the importance of mind-body practices like breathwork and meditation in reducing stress and improving overall health (Goyal et al., 2014).

Check out my post on Boosting your mental wellness.

How to Boost Mental Wellness

3. You’re Craving a Faith-Rooted Approach to Health

For many, health isn’t just about food and fitness. It’s about living out your God-given purpose in a healthy, vibrant body.

Here’s where the difference between a general health coach and a Christian holistic health coach becomes clear:

  • A Health Coach focuses on guiding clients toward healthier behaviors, setting realistic goals, and promoting lifestyle changes. While incredibly valuable, the approach is often purely secular and focuses solely on physical and mental health.
  • A Christian Holistic Health Coach integrates biblical principles into every aspect of health coaching. This approach recognizes that true wellness includes spiritual well-being. It’s not just about eating more veggies or hitting the gym. It’s about honoring your body as a temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and seeking God’s guidance in your wellness journey.

A Christian holistic health coach will pray with you, support you through faith-centered practices, and help you align your health goals with God’s calling for your life.

Why is LiveWell Holistic Health Coaching A Unique Faith-Based Approach to Wellness?

4. Stress Has Become Your Constant Companion

Stress is more than just a mental state. It affects your entire body. Chronic stress has been linked to inflammation, digestive issues, sleep disorders, and even chronic disease (American Psychological Association, 2018).

If you constantly feel:

  • Overwhelmed or anxious
  • Emotionally drained
  • Physically tense or achy

…it’s time to hit pause.

Holistic health practitioners use techniques like breathwork, movement, nutrition, and mindfulness to reduce stress and bring your body back into balance. Christian holistic coaches also help you anchor in scripture and prayer, creating space for spiritual peace alongside physical healing.

5. You Want to Thrive, Not Just Survive

John 10:10 reminds us, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

God didn’t create you to live in survival mode tired, overwhelmed, and disconnected. He calls you into wholeness.

Holistic health coaching focuses on helping you thrive in all areas of life:

  • Physically, through nutrition and movement
  • Mentally, through mindset and emotional wellness
  • Spiritually, by helping you align your health journey with your faith

Is It Time to Make a Shift?

This might be your sign if you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of the next step in your health journey.

You don’t have to do this alone.

As a Christian holistic health coach, I’m here to walk alongside you. Helping you uncover what’s holding you back, guiding you toward God-centered healing, and empowering you to take aligned, intentional steps forward.

Let’s work together to create a wellness plan that nourishes your body, renews your mind, and strengthens your spirit. 

Ready to take the first step?

Schedule a FREE Goal Consult today and let’s talk about how we can move you from surviving to thriving!

Because you deserve to feel well not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. 

What’s one area of your health physical, emotional, or spiritual that you feel God is calling you to focus on right now?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below! I’d love to encourage you on your journey.

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