True Health: The Harmony of Body, Mind & Soul

Health is often mistaken for the mere absence of illness, but as per World Health Organization (WHO) it is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being (1). In its truest sense, health is a harmonious balance between the body, the mind, and the soul. The most visible anchor for health is physical health, since it represents overall wellness of the body and where all its systems and parts function properly. Maintaining good physical health is essential for protection against diseases, balanced energy expenditure, and improvement of quality of life (2, 3). Mental health, though an intangible core of our well-being, plays a vital role in fostering inner peace, enhancing productivity, building resilience to stress, and maintaining healthy relationships (4). Achieving good mental health is not about eliminating all stress or difficult emotions; rather, it is about cultivating resilience, living in balance, and discovering the strength within (5). Scientifically supported measures to achieve and maintain good mental health include prioritizing oneself through self-care and a balanced lifestyle, maintaining healthy nutrition, managing stress effectively, fostering social connections, seeking professional support when needed, cultivating positive thinking, and engaging in hobbies and creative activities (6,7). The soul forms the vital third link in the chain of health, bringing balance to body and mind (8). An emotionally stable person, reflecting a deep understanding of self, experiences inner peace and positive emotions, which in turn support both physical and mental well-being (9).

Though the mind, body, and soul may seem like separate realms, they are deeply interconnected. To discuss some common factors, one prominent example is physical activity. Regular exercise not only strengthens the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems but also lowers the risk of chronic diseases and helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression (10). On a similar note, nutrition is crucial for both physical and mental health. While physical activity supports energy expenditure and weight management, proper nutrition provides the body with essential nutrients for growth, development, and energy production. It also plays a key role in brain function by supporting neurotransmitter synthesis and regulating the gut-brain axis, while reducing inflammation—thereby enhancing mood and promoting mental well-being. (11). Sleep disturbances, whether in the form of insomnia or hypersomnia, disrupt the body’s natural repair processes and alter brain chemistry. This can lead to weakened immunity, hormonal imbalances, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Therefore, adequate and quality sleep is essential for the overall well-being of an individual.

Finally, health is not a destination but a continuous journey of balance, and when all three aspects align, life flourishes in strength, clarity, and harmony.

References

1. World Health Organization. (2024). Implementing the primary health care approach: a primer. World Health Organization.

2. Yel, K., Şencan, D., Güzel, S., & Erkılıç, A. O. (2024). Physical activity, nutrition, and healthy living. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences (IJOSS), 1(3), 15-28.

3. Bonilla, D. A., Kočí, J., Petro, J. L., & Kreider, R. B. (2024). The healthy trinity to face non‐communicable diseases: physical activity, nutrition and sleep. In Integrated Science for Sustainable Development Goal 3: Universal Good Health and Well-Being (pp. 89-121). Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland.

4. Jurakulovich, J. S. (2025). The role of mental health in enhancing human well-being and developmental outcomes. EduVision: Journal of Innovations in Pedagogy and Educational Advancements, 1(5), 93-99.

5. Sandua, D. (2024). Healthy Mind: A Practical Guide to Emotional Wellness.

6. Srivastava, T. (2024). The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Well-Being. Issue 6 Int'l JL Mgmt. & Human., 7, 1247.

7. Lippman, D., Stump, M., Veazey, E., Guimarães, S. T., Rosenfeld, R., Kelly, J. H.,& Katz, D. L. (2024). Foundations of lifestyle medicine and its evolution. Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Innovations, Quality & Outcomes, 8(1), 97-111.

8. Rajasegaram, A., & Muniandy, R. (2022). Integration of mind, body, and soul: A conceptual guidance to A healthy lifestyle. International Journal of Modern Trends in Social Sciences, 5(22), 49-55.

9. Wong, P. T. (2022). The wisdom of the soul: The missing key to happiness and positive mental health?. International Journal of Existential Positive Psychology, 11(2), 1-14.

10. Silverman, M. N., & Deuster, P. A. (2014). Biological mechanisms underlying the role of physical fitness in health and resilience. Interface focus, 4(5), 20140040.

11. Chang de Pinho, I., Giorelli, G., & Oliveira Toledo, D. (2024). A narrative review examining the relationship between mental health, physical activity, and nutrition. Discover Psychology, 4(1), 162.

12. Watson, R. R., & Preedy, V. R. (Eds.). (2020). Neurological modulation of sleep: mechanisms and function of sleep health. Academic Press.