For some that phrase, heart and soul, might conjure up a famous song melody. For others, it may connect more with a sense of commitment, energy, and enthusiasm. And for some it might have a more spiritual meaning. So, let’s take a look at each of those perspectives in this heart focused month.

If you are not familiar with the name of the song, listen here, and you will probably recognize it. It is known for its ability to lift people’s spirits and bring joy. I bet if you listened to it, it made you smile. That mind-body-spirit connection is a powerful mechanism.

Next, there is the more physical side of “heart and soul”. This is an energy that fuels our commitment or enthusiasm for a task. Some might even call it your passion. What drives you? Here again we can bring in the mind-body-spirit connection. This is the link between a person’s thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors and their physical health. While researchers have long understood that our emotions can affect our bodies, they are just now beginning to understand how emotions influence health and longevity. (read more on health effects at The Importance of the Mind-Body-Spirit Connection During Times of Stress and Anxiety)

And lastly, there is that spiritual connection – our heart being the “seat of the soul”. This is where we identify our feelings of love, desires, and affections. In my experience, and humble opinion, this is the most profound connection of all, particularly between mother and child. Studies have shown that part of the child’s DNA remains with the mother even after birth. (Mother’s Day Genetics: How long does a mother “carry” a child?)

So, beyond the commercialism of the month, I hope you will find deeper connections of mind-body-spirit in your heart and soul and bring in the joy.

Aloha and a hui hou…