The Health/Place Relationship...

Today's post is a reflection on a concept termed the "theology of place". No matter where we humans are, we take formless space (think bare office cubicle or desk) and make it our own. We add pictures of important people or events, we beautify it with plants or art work, we litter it with our personal detritus. The space becomes "ours" whether it is a rental, a lease or we own it. Whether it is a space just big enough for us and a laptop, or many thousands of acres, we interact with that space to create a relationship. We also exist in it and create memories - and it is both the relationship and the memories that confer something sacred or at least special to that place.

Over time, we develop a "way" of interacting with new spaces in our lives. Thus unknowingly we develop a theology of place which confers meaning to the spaces we occupy. Obviously, depending upon what happens within those spaces, the meaning for us can be positive or negative. Additionally, the space can be healthy or unhealthy. Case in point, if you occupy a space in a high stress and low reward job, it is likely that you will be highly stressed and frustrated (and less healthy). If however, you occupy a space that treats you as an important part of a team and that rewards your efforts, you will reflect a much more positive outlook (and likely be healthier).

We now understand that place and health are inter-related. Spaces which help us to explore meaning in our lives and helps us grow not only in our chosen fields but in our humanity, confer health benefits far beyond what would be expected. This type of work life used to be common place. Real community existed where people knew each other and understood where they fit into the ethos of the place they occupied. There was a peace of mind that allowed people the opportunity to grow into the person they chose to be. People were healthier overall, because they were connected to each other and to a place. (see any of the books by Wendell Berry)

In today's world we rush ever faster into the future, demanding more and more "efficiency" and using up resources (human and earthly) at an alarming pace. We see places as acquisitions to be bought and sold, not to be retained and treasured. Even "vacation" places are purchased only to be used every now and then - they are purchased with an eye on the return-on-investment (ROI) much more so than for their aesthetic value. We have lost the theology of place - and we wonder why we aren't able to settle down and be at peace. We wonder why we aren't able to be healthier and more whole. We wonder and we ponder and we don't know what to do!

I write this on a national holiday where we are celebrating the creation of a nation. All Americans identify (positively or negatively) with this country. Those who have traveled know what it means to live here and how blessed we are. Today and all this week I'd like to encourage you to consider your theology of place and evaluate how your places add or detract from your sense of health and well being. How can you change your theology of place to create an environment that leads you to health, wellness and wholeness?

Peace and joy,
Dan