Updates from Carrie Long

In today's fast-paced world, more individuals are turning to holistic health approaches to achieve overall wellness. Holistic health emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, considering the whole person and their environmental interactions. This approach advocates for balance across all life aspects to achieve optimal health, contrasting traditional medicine that often targets only specific symptoms or diseases.

The five pillars of holistic health include physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. Physical health covers exercise, nutrition, sleep, and preventive care, while mental health focuses on stress management, cognitive exercises, and emotional resilience. Emotional health involves expressing emotions, nurturing relationships, and practicing self-compassion, whereas spiritual health includes finding life purpose, mindfulness, and connecting with nature. Social health emphasizes building supportive relationships and engaging in community activities.

Incorporating holistic health into your life entails making small, manageable changes, practicing mindfulness, nourishing and moving your body, nurturing relationships, and seeking professional guidance. By addressing all five aspects of health, you can achieve long-term wellness and prevent issues before they arise. At Fit & Free Wellness, we offer services designed to support your holistic wellness journey, ensuring you find the right balance for a fulfilled and healthy life. Ready to start? We're here to support you every step of the way.

In the midst of political unrest in Guatemala, Freedom Initiative International remains committed to their mission of showing love, providing basic needs, and sharing the Gospel with at-risk groups. They have exciting initiatives lined up for 2024, including welcoming teams from the United States to work on special projects like stove installations and provision of bunk beds and food baskets. They will also focus on personal development programs, facilitating English classes, offering welding school, and introducing a fitness class to promote holistic health and fitness. Their vision for the future is the establishment of the Freedom Center, a hub for education, empowerment, and freedom. They will keep supporters updated on their progress and are grateful for prayers and involvement.

(Source: https://exampleblog.com/guatemala-mission-update)

As of this writing, Guatemala is currently experiencing ongoing civil unrest with protests demanding the removal of certain people in governmental power due to corruption. The country has seen blockades on major highways, leading to food and fuel shortages, minimized public transportation, and the closure of many businesses. Despite the challenges, the Long family, who are safe and doing well, have been engaging in online meetings, checking on people, and providing groceries to those in need. They have witnessed peaceful and even comical moments during the protests, such as blockades made with bright yellow flowers and protestors asking motorists to dance in order to pass. While the situation remains uncertain and chaotic, the Longs emphasize their trust in God and invite others to join them in prayer for Guatemala and the world.

Cornerstone Church Anahuac recently embarked on a mission trip to Guatemala with Freedom Initiative International, and it was a week filled with heartwarming moments and community outreach. One of the highlights was the installation of 18 Rocket Stoves, providing warmth and reducing health risks for a total of 300 families in El Rosario. They also distributed Bibles, as well as, care packages for pregnant women, ensuring both physical and spiritual support. Additionally, the team worked with Provee to provide food bags and prayed with 50 families. The trip also included attending local church services and experiencing the natural beauty of Guatemala. This mission trip exemplified the impact of faith-based initiatives and the love of Christ in bringing education and basic needs to vulnerable communities. Stay tuned for more updates on Freedom Initiative International's important work.