The emotion quotient

Natural Health, April, 2005 by Grant Lois M.

NATURAL HEALTH is a high-quality magazine with many interesting features. But I am dismayed that it concentrates on healing the physical body. Yes, there are references to finding more joy, meditating, etc., but there is no specific information on the emotional causes of illness.

For 22 years I was severely ill with rheumatoid arthritis. It wasn't until I got in touch with my anger and resentment, and began to forgive my mother for her verbal and emotional abuse, that my condition began to improve. In 1967 I took my last prescription drug! Once the mind, spirit, and emotions are healed, the body can heal itself.

If someone has a physical illness, the physical aspects must be addressed. But that is only part of the equation. Total holistic wellness takes our physical, spiritual, and emotional selves into account. Allow me to suggest that you broaden your perspective to include all of who we really are.

--Lois M. Grant, Atlanta

A number of our articles reflect the mind/body approach to wellness, e.g., "The Emotional Roots of Back Pain" (November 2004). In this issue, "To Forgive, Divine?" (page 82) describes the emotional and physical toll of anger and resentment.