Thirst with Sheryl: season 2- Holistic Change

The Double E's

Ears & Eyes are paired organs located on our head. The ears are symmetrical on each side of the head and they are organs of hearing and balance. The Eyes are paired organs at the top and front side of our head and are sensory organs that allow us to see. Hearing and seeing are 2 actions that a lot of us take for granted. Many do not value having ears/eyes until one or both malfunctions.  Consider the blind and the deaf…think about it. Without eyes, we cannot see the beauty of creation, the food that we eat, or our family and friends. And without ears, we cannot hear others talking, the sound of the rain, or the birds singing in the early morning as the sun rises.
As we walk with Christ, we develop and heighten our spiritual ears and eyes. We hear scripture and receive revelation knowledge, rather than human reason. Our spiritual eyes can see what the natural eye cannot; on the same note, our spiritual ears, hear what the natural ear cannot.

It's a Headache!

The slang phrase, “It’s a headache,” means that something is an annoyance. Today we want to discuss that annoyance or bothersome nagging feeling of (pause), a headache!A headache is defined as pain or discomfort in the head or face area. Headaches are pretty common for many people; In addition, they are categorized into 2 main types:
Primary- these are conditions where the headache is the main problem, not a symptom of another illness. The 3 types of primary headaches are tension, with mild to moderate pain often caused by stress or muscle tension in the neck/shoulders. Migraines which are moderate to severe; they are often throbbing sometimes one sided with nausea, light/sound sensitivity, visual disturbances and all of this comes prior to the pain. And lastly, the cluster headaches which produce extremely severe & sharp pain, pain is usually around one eye, and occurs in clusters over weeks or months
The causes of primary headaches are often linked to brain chemistry, genetics and triggers like stress, lack of sleep, foods or hormonal changes.
 
Secondary-these are symptoms of an underlying medical condition; for example, sinus headache is due to sinus infection/inflammation; there are also headaches that occur with medication overuse and dehydration. Then you have the more serious headaches due to brain tumors, aneurysms or meningitis.
The causes of secondary headaches are the underlying condition itself such as infection or other medical disorders
 
Having a headache is a distraction and can be so much of a distraction that you forget that we can go to God in prayer. In lieu of medication, depending on the cause of the headache, you can take some deep breaths in and exhalations out.  Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for helping to lower heart rate and blood pressure. It also increases oxygen intake, which can improve mood, focus, and even pain management, according to some studies. 

The Comparison

The organ inside the head that controls all body functions of a human being, is made up of billions of nerve cells, and is protected by the cranium, is the brain.
Just as the engine is the main component that powers and controls the movement and function of an automobile, the brain, is the central processing unit of the human body that directs nearly all of its operations, thoughts and actions.  Today I want to briefly discuss different aspects of its function and health & compare this complex organ with an automobile
 
Complexity: Modern car engines are complex machines with many interconnected parts working in harmony. The human brain is probably the most complex known structure in the universe; it is composed of billions of neurons and trillions of connections.
Performance: the performance of an automobile depends on the health and efficiency of its engine; Similarly, our cognitive abilities, physical coordination and overall, well being are dependent on the healthy functioning of our brain.
Maintenance: Just as a car engine needs regular maintenance, like oil changes & tune-ups, to run well, the brain benefits from maintenance through good nutrition, sleep, mental stimulation and stress management.
Damage Impact: Damage to the engine can severely impair or completely stop a car from functioning.  In a like manner, damage to the brain from injury, stroke or disease, can have profound and often devastating effects on a person’s abilities and life.
 
Now why is she using an automobile as a comparison? Well think about it, it would be very difficult to function without a car or not have the ability to be able to call an uber/lyft to assist you.  While no analogy is perfect, the brain compared with the engine of a car does convey its crucial role as the powerhouse and command center of the human body.

On the Cover

Today, we want to discuss some conditions that may occur, “on our covering.” Now, although there are several conditions that can arise,  I want to briefly discuss 3: Acne, Eczema, & Skin Cancer.
Acne is a common skin condition characterized by clogged pores or hair follicles that become inflamed. This happens when excess oil, dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria build up. Acne can manifest as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples/ pustules, nodules or cysts. Acne commonly appears on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. What triggers acne? Hormonal changes, genetics or certain medications can trigger acne. Stress or diet, will not only trigger it, but worsen it. Hands off! First, keep your hands/fingers away from the area where you have acne. As tempting as it appears, you may want to pop or squeeze the pimple/blackhead/whitehead, thinking that you can help speed up the process of healing if you just remove the pus or blackhead, but it will only make the inflammation process exacerbate. What helps? I recommend you drink plenty of water, avoid fatty, greasy & sugary foods. Get ample sleep so that your skin can rejuvenate & heal. Gently wash the face twice daily with a mild cleanser avoiding harsh scrubbing, and using a non- pore clogging product. For the more severe cases of acne, like cysts or nodules, see your dermatologist.
Eczema is the name for a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters & skin infections. Although, it mostly occurs in babies and children, it can also affect adults. Eczema usually manifests itself in the folds of the skin, but may occur anywhere on the body where there is skin.  In extreme cases, the whole body may be covered. What triggers Eczema? Genetic factors and environmental triggers cause eczema. Many people with eczema have a family history of eczema, hay fever or asthma. Additionally, an overreaction of the immune system to minor irritants or allergens can mistakenly identify them as a threat & can lead to inflammation in the skin.  Furthermore, there are some environmental factors that can trigger eczema: soaps, detergent, fragrances, certain fabrics like wool, dust, mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, certain foods. What helps? The first thing to do is to investigate and find out the cause of the eczema. Once the cause is found, you want to remember these things while you heal: Don’t scratch, apply ice, take oat baths & baking soda baths; some try natural oils with Calendula and have reported relief.
Skin Cancer is a disease that arises when skin cells, particularly in the epidermis (outermost layer), multiply uncontrollably due to DNA damage. 
There are 3 main types: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, typically developing on sun-exposed areas like the face, head, and neck. It often presents as a pearly or waxy bump or a flat, scaly patch.  Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Another common type, also usually found on sun-exposed skin. It can appear as a red, scaly patch, a firm bump, or a sore that doesn't heal. Melanoma: The most serious type, as it's more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. Melanoma often develops in or near a mole. What triggers or causes skin cancer? Damage can be caused from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. What Helps? Seek shade especially between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear protective clothing including wide brimmed hats and UV blocking sunglasses, use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily and reapply frequently; try to avoid tanning beds entirely! Lastly, regularly check your skin for changes and see a dermatologist for professional exams.

It Covers Us All

Saved, unsaved, young, old, black, white, brown, liar, sinner, optimist, narcissist, apostle, teacher, pastor, lawyer, nurse, doctor, writer, it covers us all.  That it is, the skin! The skin is our protective coat and is the largest organ of the body.  It is made of water, protein, fats, and minerals. The skin acts as the primary boundary with the external world.
The main functions of the skin are:
Protection-the skin protects us by keeping bacterial, viruses and other microorganisms from entering the body. It protects us against scrapes, cuts etc. The skin reduces absorption of harmful substance. Additionally, the melanin pigment helps shield the skin against the sun’s potential damaging ultraviolet rays.
Temperature regulation- the skin helps maintain a stable internal body temperature through sweating. Sweat cools the body as it evaporates. Additionally, through sweat, the skin helps eliminate small amounts of waste products like urea (which is a substance formed by breakdown of protein in the liver) and ammonia (a waste product formed when the body breaks down proteins). Moreover, the skin assists with the dilation of blood vessels to release heat or constricts blood vessels to conserve heat.
Sensation-the skin is packed with nerve endings helping us to feel touch, pressure, and pain.
Vitamin D Production- when we are exposed to sunlight, the skin synthesizes Vit D which is essential for calcium absorption, bone health and immune function

Additional Body Essentials

Today, we will discuss 3 additional Body Essentials that should be, if not already good habits you participate in “on a regular; “Good Nutrition, Exercise & Sleep.
Listeners, I have 1 question for you: Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies. 1Cor6:19-20 CEV
Honor God with your body by getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, eat a well-balanced meal free from all unwholesome foods as mentioned above, and find some form of activity to participate in at least 3-4 days per week.

3 Body Essentials

Today we will continue with our holistic transformation sessions with a brief discussion on 3 Body Essentials
Sunshine- Everybody seems to have a better attitude when the sun is shining. The sun makes us want to get out and do things, like garden, thrift, ride bikes, sightsee, go to the park, grab lunch etc. Eccl 11:7 CEV says Nothing on earth is more beautiful than the morning sun.
A breath of fresh air…the biblical concept of fresh air or breath is used to represent God’s presence and lifegiving power. 3 scriptures in the bible that point to this are Eze 37 depicts God breathing life back into dry bones symbolizing revival and restoration; John 20:22 where Jesus breathes on the disciples and says “Receive the Holy Spirit, signifying the impartation of God’s power and presence  and  Phil 2:14-15 where Paul encourages the believer to be a positive influence in the world, like a breath of fresh air in a corrupted society.” All these scriptures represent God’s presence and lifegiving power.
Water. The body is made up of 50-75% water. Water lubricates and cushions the joints, regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, eliminates waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movement, supports digestive processes and maintains hydration.

The 2 T's

Today, we are going to continue our session on the body, with our discussion on the senses involving the 2 T’s which are Taste & Touch
Tasting occurs in the mouth gate and is described as the 
sensation
 of flavor perceived in the mouth and throat on contact with a substance. We can say that this is eating and drinking. Now the enemy traps many Christians with this being an inroad.  For example, some of us who love, let’s say, apple pie, but instead of us eating one slice, we may opt for 2 slices or even 3. Then we wonder why we have gas, bloating or gut discomfort! And don’t forget those of us who love to go out to lunch or dinner and have that glass of wine with the meal.
In addition to tasting, we also use our mouth to speak. We have discussed watching what comes out of our mouths in Season 1 and this Season.  The bottom line is, your words indicate where your heart is and if you just blurt anything out of your mouth, it shows the condition of your heart and what you believe. We have to be very careful…
Prov 18:21 NIV says The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
 
Touch:
Touch is the deliberate contact with something or someone. There are touches that indicate positive connotations which have numerous physiological and emotional benefits, including reducing stress, easing pain, and boosting mood.
 
However, in contrast, touch can also be used to depict negativity. Negative touch makes one feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or violated. 
 
Isaiah 43:19 where God is reminding listeners that He is doing a new thing with us. It says: 'See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

The 3 S's

Today, we are going to discuss the body, by beginning with emphasis on the 3 S’s: Sight, Sound & Smell
Sight: Sight is what you see or observe. When you enter your space where you listened to your podcast sessions, what do you see? How does what you see make you feel? Is the space cluttered again? Sometimes what we see and how we perceive our space, affects our mood.  For example, if we see a child giggling and playing with a puppy, this makes us smile; on the other hand, if we see a dog has bitten a child, it makes us feel sad. Mat 6:22-23 NIV says the eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. Additionally, the eye gate can be understood as a point of vulnerability where the enemy can make an inroad through the thoughts, emotions, and actions of a person, ultimately leading to their spiritual or emotional destruction. 
Sound: Sound is what you hear externally. What sounds do you hear during the day? Sounds of nature, praise & worship, rap music, heavy metal, piano music, water falls, construction? What sounds do you hear when you’re listening to this podcast? Sound is also what you hear internally? What is your self-talk like or internal chatter like? You know sounds can impact our focus, relaxation or stress levels. We can create a soothing environment by listening to nature sounds, spa music, rain or praise and worship.  Sounds like an infant crying, traffic, construction, or your neighbors quarreling can cause you to become a little stressed. The ear gate can also be a point of vulnerability where the enemy can make an inroad. We have to watch what type of music we listen to. There is some music that disrespects women, some that uses profanity; on another note, sometimes we may hear voices that may tell us to do something contrary to the word of God; for example, you may hear the enemy whisper to you, “go ahead, you only had one drink; go ahead and get behind the wheel.” We know that is the enemy because the Holy Spirit would not tell us to do anything that would harm us. Mat 11:15 NIV says Whoever has ears to hear let him hear." Now this scripture isn't referring to physical hearing but rather to spiritual understanding and receptivity. I mention this scripture because remember our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit as discussed in last weeks podcast.
Smell:  to smell means to perceive or detect odors or scents. Different scents impact memory, emotions and physiological responses. For example, what do you smell when you walk into your room. Do you have the window open and smell the rain? Do you have your window open and smell your honeysuckles? Or do you have your window open and smell the neighbor’s strong scent of marijuana? Does the scent of the honeysuckles remind you of when you were a child sucking the sweet honey from the flower? Does the strong scent of the marijuana send a physiological response and cause your allergies to flare up? 2 Cor2:15-16 NIV says we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing are an aroma that brings death; This scripture describes both believers and unbelievers, to those who are saved, believers are a "sweet aroma of life". To those who are perishing, they are a "stench of death.”  The nose can also be an inroad for the enemy to creep into our lives.  For example, what if you used to smoke weed, but you’ve been clean for years, the constant smell from your neighbor might stir up memories of when you used to smoke and lead you to relapse.

Our Body, His Temple

We are spirit beings, with a soul, and live in a body. This statement highlights our three distinct but interconnected parts of our being. Today, we begin our sessions on the body.
 
Physique, frame, soma, build, figure, shape. These are some of the terms used to describe or identify the body. No matter what term you use, Our body is HIS Temple. 1 Cor 6:19-20 NIV says Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.
If we back up a couple of verses, Paul describes that when one joins to a harlot or commits fornication, the two become one flesh; but in verse 17, Paul says “he that is joined to the Lord, is one Spirit with HIM.” Our body, HIS Temple.
 
In the Old Testament, God’s presence resided in the temple which was in the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. When we accepted Jesus as our Lord & Savior the Holy Spirit came and made His home in us. Our body, HIS Temple.