How was your Easter? Did it get you thinking about your life? I’ve chosen my guest post today for the light it shines on the many beliefs about life and death surrounding the Easter story. Spokesperson for Christian Science in Northern California, Eric Nelson, is quoted in the full article on the Washington Times. Thanks, Eric!

Colored eggs and chocolate bunnies aside, could it be that Easter holds the secret to better health?

First – for those who may be unfamiliar with the origins of this holiday, Easter is Christianity’s commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus three days after his crucifixion, although much of its symbolism is borrowed from the Jewish Passover, a much older tradition celebrated around the same time of year. (For details on the origins of the Easter Bunny, you’ll have to read someone else’s column).

Depending on your perspective, Easter can mean any number of things. For some it’s nothing more than an entertaining folk tale. For others it’s the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, meant to inspire a deeper devotion to God. For others it’s a beacon of hope that there really is such a thing as life after death – maybe even life instead of death.

What does this have to do with health?

It’s no secret that uncertainty about the future can wreak havoc on one’s sense of well-being – affecting everything from blood pressure to heart rate to mental stability. By some estimates, the stress underlying these conditions accounts for more than 60% of all doctor visits. It stands to reason, then, that our expectation of the future – perhaps even our ultimate future – could have a very real impact on what’s happening here and now in terms of both mind and body.

Back in 2006, The HealthCare Chaplaincy decided to explore this idea further … continue reading on the Washington Post -