Where Faith Meets Healing: Choosing Wellness for My Mind | Mental Wellness Month

I'm a child of the Most High God!

January 14, 2026 | Daphne Oh

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

As January 2026 begins, I feel a quiet invitation from The Most High to slow down and tend to my heart and mind with intention. This new year isn’t asking me to rush forward. It's asking me to rest, to trust, and to heal. For me, Mental Wellness Month is a time to not only acknowledge mental health, but to actively nurture it through faith, mindfulness, and daily care.

Mental Awareness Month vs. Mental Wellness Month 

 

I’ve learned that mental awareness and mental wellness are not the same. Mental awareness helps us recognize mental health challenges and removes stigma. It brings understanding to the surface.

Mental wellness goes deeper. It’s about daily stewardship of the mind God gave us. It’s about how we care for our thoughts, emotions, and inner peace long after awareness has begun. It's about the action we put in after the awareness.

Mental wellness is choosing rest instead of burnout. It’s choosing prayer instead of panic. It’s choosing healing instead of silence.

And this January, I’m choosing wellness rooted in faith.

Where Stillness, Purpose, and The Most High Peace Gently Align

 

Mindfulness has changed my life in ways I didn’t expect. Learning to pause, to be present, and to intentionally invite God into my thoughts has brought a sense of peace I once searched for everywhere else.

The Bible reminds me:

 “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” — Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

When I’m intentional about where my mind rests, my spirit feels lighter. I’m learning that mental wellness doesn’t come from controlling everything. It comes from trusting The Most High with everything.

A Quiet Walk Where My Steps And God’s Presence Met

 

One of my favorite mental wellness practices is mindful walking. I step outside, slow my pace, and let my prayers match my steps. I notice God’s creation…the sky, the trees, the quiet moments between breaths. Walking becomes worship. Movement becomes prayer.

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” — Psalm 37:23 (NLT)

These walks remind me that I don’t have to rush ahead. The Most High is already walking with me.

A Sacred Space Between Me, My Journal, and The Most High

 

Journaling has become one of the safest places for my thoughts. It’s where I pour out worries, gratitude, questions, and prayers. Writing helps me release what I’ve been holding inside and invites clarity where confusion once lived.

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” — 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

When I journal, I’m not just writing. I’m surrendering.

Where My Breath Becomes Trust And The Most High Becomes Peace

Breathing has become my reset button. When anxiety creeps in or my thoughts feel heavy, I pause and breathe deeply, reminding myself that God is near.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” — Psalm 34:18 (NLT)

Each breath feels like a reminder: I am not alone. I am supported. God is with me in this moment.

A Quiet Act of Courage: Embracing Support Without Shame

One of the most important truths I’ve embraced is that seeking help, including therapy, is not a lack of faith. It’s wisdom. It’s stewardship. It’s strength.

God places resources, professionals, and support in our lives for a reason.

“Plans succeed through good counsel.” — Proverbs 20:18 (NLT)

I am deeply grateful to have access to therapy. It has given me tools, perspective, and a safe space to grow and heal. Choosing help doesn’t mean I don’t trust God. It means I’m honoring the help He provides.

Walking Into 2026 with Faith and Wellness

As January unfolds, I’m not setting harsh resolutions. I’m setting faith-filled intentions to guard my mind, nourish my spirit, and continue choosing mental wellness with God at the center.

“Let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.” — Colossians 3:15 (NLT)

Mental wellness isn’t about never struggling. It’s about knowing where to turn when I do.

A Promise to Myself and The Most High

This January, and throughout 2026, I promise to:

Fix my thoughts on God’s truth

Move mindfully and pray often

Breathe deeply and trust fully

Ask for help without shame

Care for my mental health as an act of faith

Because my mind matters. My peace matters. And God cares deeply about my wellness.

Here’s to a year of healing, faith, and choosing mental wellness. One prayerful moment at a time.

I hope this blog has found you in good spirits and that you have enjoyed my personal experiences with mental wellness. I truly appreciate everyone's support and really enjoy sharing my thoughts and experiences with everyone. Please leave a comment and share any of your wellness experiences. You never know who you may be inspiring. Wishing everyone peace, happiness and abundance. Please check back weekly for my latest blogs and any that you may have missed. Some will be personal, others will be about spreading awareness and some will be a combination of both. Until next time...

 -Daphne Oh

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