The origin of these words are the same. By healing we are moving toward wholeness. As we are able to recognise the connections that already exist between our bodies and our minds, we then recognise the intimate connection with others in society and the world. Physical, mental and social are always interconnected to make up the whole.
A Body that works properly...is the basis for physical health. This means the body is able to properly adapt to and recover from the stresses that it is placed under. Sometimes even though our body is working properly it may not feel so good, for example, when we have eaten bad food we may vomit.
A mind that works properly, and is able to respond appropriately to situations, and make sound intelligent decisions based on many factors in a complex world, is the basis for mental wellbeing. A full range of emotions, from ecstasy and joy, to sadness and grief as well as logic and reason reflect a responsive mind.
Is the ability to work properly within a society. The ability to respond appropriately to others in personal, social, national and international situations reflects the health of the individual and hence that society.
The nervous system co-ordinates our interactions with our bodies (physical), with ourselves (mental) and with others (social). When we do not respond appropriately (physically mentally or socially) then this is called dis-ease. Physical, mental or social disease are all resultant from an inability to adapt. We may not have symptoms and yet still be sick.
We can view our health as being at a point along a line with death and disease at one end, and fitness, superman and beyond at the other. Our healing process is our movement along the line.