Pastoral implications of the body / mind connection.

Against the background of the body / mind connection the focus is first on the biblical view of man as an unfragmented unity. Secondly the emphasis is on the historical roots of the so-called biopsychosocial model that is replacing the traditional biophysical method. Furthermore, the focus is also on the possibility of physical problems as the result of unresolved emotions; the immune system as an important link within the body / mind connection; critical life changes; the role of genetics as well as important decisions of the will; social support and loneliness; and, the therapeutic value of writing or verbalization. In conclusion, the emphasis is on the pastoral implications of all the above mentioned factors and a plea is made for the inclusion of the pastoral / spiritual dimension in the biospychosocial model.