The minute I heard the word triune used in the chiropractic office I was curious. Deeply curious. Almost all my entire life I remember hearing about the Trinity of God and the verse that talks about a 3-fold cord. I’ve always thought about that cord and related it to relationships. I would be reminded of the verse that talks about having a multitude of counselors. And, how you go about resolving an issue, by going to the person first, then bringing someone with you if the issue was not resolved, and then bringing it in front of the body if it was still not resolved. Plus, I had long hair most of my life growing up and did put it in braids quite often.
Anyway, in the setting of health, I knew that the system of health we grew up with and were led to believe was the best in the world, simply was not getting people well and keeping them well. Never in my experience with that system did I feel like the doctor(s) were looking at all of me. Treating a problem by looking at and isolating a single body part simply did not make sense to me.
So, this idea of a triune of health was super interesting for me. I asked questions, repeated back what I heard, and asked more questions. The chiropractor I was seeing as a patient, also ended up be one that I ended up working with for close to three years, working with patients, support each other’s business growth, and overlapping healing modalities to help clients identify and heal that next layer that was ready to be healed. Healing is really reversing the disease process one layer at a time.
I digress. While I had heard of mind, body and spirit, I had always connected that to the woo-woo things like yoga, crystals, meditating, and such. I had never connected to “real” doctors and the art, science and philosophy of their profession.
One thing I did know was that it made sense that our body parts were all working (or not working) together and that our human body suit was one of the most intricate and amazing designs in the entire world. If God is the Great Healer, and we are created in His image, should we not be able to heal pretty much anything from the inside out? And, how much of our existence do we have access to from a conscious mind? How do we tap into the subconscious mind to give us direction?
And so, I went down the rabbit hole of triune, learning about each, contemplating my own health and that of those in my circle, as well as trying out a bunch of modalities.
The place I find myself now is one of “less is more”; use muscle testing of some sort to ask the subconscious what it needs to heal; and work on all three sides of the triune. Without working on all three sides of the triune all the time, through as few of practitioners as possible, or a group of practitioners and clinicians that work together for you (a Personal Health Advisory Board), you just end up with a 3-legged stool with legs that are different lengths. That is not health.
Let’s get back to the triunes.
Here is what initially came up on mind, body and spirit.
The Triune of Health
Body: The physical aspect of the Triune of Health refers to the tangible, material form of an individual. It encompasses the bodily systems, organs, tissues, and their functions. This dimension emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, rest, and overall physical care to maintain optimal health.
Mind: The mental facet of the Triune of Health pertains to cognitive functions, emotional well-being, and psychological balance. It encompasses thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, emotions, and stress management. Cultivating mental health involves practices such as mindfulness, meditation, therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Spirit: The spiritual element of the Triune of Health transcends the physical and mental realms, focusing on connection, purpose, and inner harmony. It involves nurturing one’s spiritual essence, exploring beliefs, values, and existential questions, and cultivating a sense of meaning and fulfillment. Practices such as meditation, prayer, reflection, and engaging in meaningful activities contribute to spiritual well-being.
Like I said, this was just the broad brushstroke for more in the woo-woo side of things. Although, I now know where they fit in the final triune that I have compiled in my head.
The next stop was learning how this triune concept was the foundation of chiropractic. What did that mean?
Here’s an overview of the father of chiropractic’s triune, DD Palmer:
D.D. Palmer, often regarded as the founder of chiropractic medicine, introduced a foundational concept known as the “Triune of Life.” This triune forms the basis of chiropractic philosophy and practice, emphasizing the interconnectedness of three fundamental dimensions of health and well-being. D.D. Palmer’s Triune consists of:
Intelligence:
At the core of D.D. Palmer’s Triune is the concept of intelligence, which represents the organizing principle that governs all life processes. Palmer believed that there is an innate intelligence pervading all living beings, coordinating and regulating their functions at every level. This innate intelligence is viewed as the vital force that animates the body, maintains its integrity, and orchestrates healing and adaptation. Chiropractic care seeks to facilitate the expression of this innate intelligence by removing interference to the nervous system, thereby restoring optimal function and promoting health.
Force:
The second aspect of Palmer’s Triune is force, which refers to the vital energy or life force that flows through the body. According to chiropractic philosophy, this vital force is transmitted through the nervous system, which serves as the primary communication network between the brain and the rest of the body. Palmer believed that disruptions or blockages in the flow of this vital force could lead to dysfunction, disease, and diminished vitality. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment and function to the spine, thereby facilitating the free flow of vital force and supporting the body’s innate healing capacity.
Matter:
The third dimension of D.D. Palmer’s Triune is matter, which encompasses the physical structures and substances of the body. Palmer recognized the importance of maintaining proper structure and alignment in promoting health and well-being. He emphasized that the spine plays a crucial role in protecting the spinal cord and facilitating nervous system function. Misalignments or subluxations in the spine can interfere with the transmission of nerve impulses, leading to dysfunction and dis-ease. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct these spinal misalignments, restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and supporting overall health and vitality.
Integration:
D.D. Palmer’s Triune underscores the interconnectedness of intelligence, force, and matter in promoting health and well-being. By addressing all three dimensions of the Triune, chiropractic care seeks to restore balance and harmony within the body, allowing innate intelligence to express itself fully and facilitate healing from within. This integrated approach to health recognizes the body as a dynamic, self-regulating system capable of maintaining optimal function and adapting to its environment when free from interference. D.D. Palmer’s Triune serves as a foundational principle of chiropractic philosophy, guiding practitioners in their understanding of health and their approach to patient care.
Wow! Does this make sense to you? It does to me. So, what happened with this triune when his son, BJ Palmer spoke of it?
BJ Palmer, the son of chiropractic’s founder D.D. Palmer, further developed the principles of chiropractic care and introduced the concept of the “Triune of Life.” This triune represents the foundational elements underlying the philosophy and practice of chiropractic medicine. BJ Palmer’s Triune consists of three fundamental dimensions:
Innate Intelligence:
At the core of BJ Palmer’s Triune is the concept of innate intelligence, which refers to the inherent wisdom and healing power within the body. Palmer believed that the body possesses an innate ability to self-regulate, self-heal, and adapt to its environment. This vitalistic perspective views health as the expression of the body’s innate intelligence functioning optimally. Chiropractic adjustments are aimed at removing interference to the nervous system, allowing the body’s innate intelligence to flow freely and facilitate healing from within.
Structure:
The second aspect of BJ Palmer’s Triune is structure, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper spinal alignment and biomechanical integrity. Palmer recognized the spine as the central framework of the body, protecting the spinal cord and facilitating communication between the brain and the rest of the body. He emphasized the significance of spinal adjustments in restoring proper alignment and function, thereby optimizing nervous system function and supporting overall health and well-being.
Function:
The third dimension of Palmer’s Triune is function, which focuses on the dynamic interplay between structure and function in the body. Palmer emphasized that health is not merely the absence of disease but rather the ability of the body to function optimally. Chiropractic care aims to improve the function of the nervous system by addressing structural misalignments and restoring proper biomechanics. By enhancing nervous system function, chiropractic adjustments promote optimal communication between the brain and the body, facilitating healing, and supporting overall wellness.
Integration:
BJ Palmer’s Triune emphasizes the interconnectedness of innate intelligence, structure, and function in promoting health and well-being. By addressing all three dimensions of the Triune, chiropractors seek to restore the body’s natural balance and facilitate the body’s innate healing processes. This integrated approach to health recognizes the body as a dynamic, self-regulating system capable of maintaining health and vitality when free from interference. BJ Palmer’s Triune serves as a foundational framework for understanding the principles of chiropractic care and promoting holistic health and wellness.
Like a 2-year-old with a lot more words in my brain and a whole lot more questions, I kept going to ask about other triune in the chiropractic field.
Following are both Reggie Gold’s triune and George Goodheart’s triune:
Reggie Golds Triune
Reggie Gold, a prominent figure in the field of chiropractic care and health advocacy, introduced a holistic framework known as Reggie Gold’s Triune. This triune reflects his deep understanding of the interconnectedness of various aspects of health and well-being. Gold’s Triune encompasses three fundamental dimensions:
Structure:
The first pillar of Reggie Gold’s Triune is structure, which emphasizes the importance of spinal alignment and musculoskeletal balance in promoting overall health. Gold recognized the spine as the central pillar of the body, housing the nervous system and facilitating communication between the brain and the rest of the body. He believed that misalignments or subluxations in the spine could interfere with nerve function, leading to a variety of health issues. Chiropractic adjustments and corrective techniques are used to restore proper spinal alignment and optimize structural integrity, supporting the body’s innate ability to heal and function optimally.
Chemistry:
The second aspect of Gold’s Triune is chemistry, which focuses on the biochemical processes and nutritional factors that influence health and vitality. Gold emphasized the importance of proper nutrition, hydration, and detoxification in maintaining biochemical balance and supporting the body’s metabolic functions. He recognized the impact of dietary choices, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors on overall health and advocated for holistic approaches to addressing nutritional imbalances and toxicities. By optimizing chemistry through dietary interventions, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can support their body’s natural healing processes and enhance their overall well-being.
Mental/Emotional:
The third dimension of Reggie Gold’s Triune is mental and emotional well-being, which acknowledges the profound influence of thoughts, beliefs, and emotions on health and vitality. Gold believed that mental and emotional stressors could contribute to physical tension, dysfunction, and disease. He emphasized the importance of stress management, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness practices in promoting mental and emotional balance. Gold encouraged individuals to cultivate positive attitudes, resilience, and self-awareness to support their overall well-being and enhance their quality of life.
Integration:
Reggie Gold’s Triune underscores the interconnectedness of structure, chemistry, and mental/emotional factors in promoting holistic health and well-being. By addressing all three dimensions of the Triune, individuals can achieve a balanced and integrated approach to wellness that supports the body’s innate healing capacity and fosters optimal health and vitality. Gold’s Triune serves as a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of health and empowering individuals to take an active role in their own well-being.
George Goodheart’s Triune
George Goodheart, a pioneering figure in chiropractic medicine and alternative healthcare, introduced the concept of the “Triune of Health” as a foundational principle in his practice and teachings. Goodheart’s Triune focuses on the interconnectedness of three key elements that contribute to overall well-being and vitality:
Structural Balance:
The first pillar of Goodheart’s Triune is structural balance, which emphasizes the alignment and integrity of the musculoskeletal system. Good posture and proper alignment of the spine and joints are crucial for optimal function and health. Structural balance addresses issues such as misalignments, subluxations, and imbalances that can lead to pain, dysfunction, and reduced mobility. Chiropractic adjustments, corrective exercises, and postural awareness techniques are used to restore and maintain structural alignment, supporting the body’s ability to function optimally.
Biochemical Balance:
The second aspect of the Triune of Health is biochemical balance, which focuses on the body’s internal environment and its impact on health. Good nutrition, hydration, and detoxification are essential for maintaining biochemical balance and supporting the body’s metabolic processes. Dietary interventions, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications are utilized to address nutritional deficiencies, detoxify the body, and optimize biochemical function. Goodheart emphasized the importance of identifying and addressing underlying nutritional imbalances and toxicities to support overall health and well-being.
Emotional Balance:
The third component of Goodheart’s Triune is emotional balance, which recognizes the profound influence of emotions and mindset on health and vitality. Stress, anxiety, and unresolved emotions can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being, contributing to a range of health issues. Techniques such as emotional release work, stress management strategies, and mind-body practices are employed to promote emotional balance and resilience. Goodheart believed that addressing emotional factors and promoting a positive mindset is essential for achieving optimal health and vitality.
Integration:
Goodheart’s Triune emphasizes the interconnectedness of structural, biochemical, and emotional factors in promoting health and well-being. Integration of these three elements is essential for achieving holistic balance and supporting the body’s innate healing capacity. By addressing structural, biochemical, and emotional imbalances simultaneously, practitioners can provide comprehensive care that addresses the root causes of health issues and promotes long-term wellness.
In summary, George Goodheart’s Triune of Health offers a holistic framework for understanding and promoting health and vitality by addressing structural, biochemical, and emotional factors. By recognizing the interconnectedness of these elements, practitioners can provide comprehensive care that supports the body’s innate ability to heal and thrive.
Wow! My mind was and is blown. I am so excited to learn about these men and their ideas of health.
Within my first consulting business, I used the Venn diagram of people, process and technology. This is how it relates to health:
People: In the context of their work and teachings, “people” refers to the individuals themselves – George Goodheart, Reggie Gold, B.J. Palmer, and D.D. Palmer. These individuals were influential figures in their respective fields of chiropractic medicine and health philosophy. They developed their triune concepts based on their own experiences, insights, and beliefs, with the intention of promoting holistic health and well-being for people.
Process: The concept of “process” relates to the methods, techniques, and approaches advocated by Goodheart, Gold, and the Palmers in their respective practices. Each of them outlined processes or frameworks aimed at addressing different dimensions of health and wellness. For example, Goodheart emphasized a process involving structural, biochemical, and emotional balance, while the Palmers focused on processes related to the innate intelligence, force, and matter within the body.
Technology: While the term “technology” typically connotes modern tools and equipment, in this context, it can be interpreted more broadly as the application of knowledge and techniques to enhance health and well-being. In the practices of Goodheart, Gold, and the Palmers, technology would encompass the various chiropractic adjustments, diagnostic methods, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle recommendations used to support the body’s innate healing processes and promote optimal health.
In summary, the words “people,” “process,” and “technology” are intertwined with the descriptions of Goodheart, Gold, and the Palmers, as they represent the individuals, methods, and tools involved in their respective approaches to holistic health and wellness.
And this is how it’s triune would be articulated:
People:
At the heart of the triune is the human element, representing the individuals involved in any endeavor. People bring unique perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table, making them indispensable to the success of any process or technology. Their creativity, empathy, and adaptability drive innovation and problem-solving, enabling organizations to thrive in dynamic environments.
Process:
The process serves as the structured framework through which people collaborate, communicate, and execute tasks to achieve desired outcomes. It encompasses the steps, workflows, and methodologies that guide activities and decision-making. A well-defined process promotes efficiency, consistency, and accountability, ensuring that tasks are completed effectively and that resources are utilized optimally.
Technology:
Technology represents the tools, systems, and platforms that enable and enhance the capabilities of people and processes. From software applications to hardware devices, technology provides the infrastructure and resources needed to automate tasks, analyze data, and streamline operations. By leveraging technology effectively, organizations can improve productivity, innovation, and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Integration:
The integration of people, process, and technology is essential for achieving synergy and maximizing outcomes. When aligned effectively, people leverage technology to optimize processes, driving efficiency and innovation. Likewise, well-defined processes empower people to harness the full potential of technology, ensuring that it serves strategic objectives and delivers value to stakeholders. By fostering collaboration and continuous improvement across all three dimensions, organizations can adapt, thrive, and remain competitive in an ever-changing world.
It was intriguing to consider how I had come to use threes in my life before the lens of health even appeared. Yet, the lens of health did appear and in the pathway to healing, now in the space of the crossover time of consulting and coaching, the Me, You, Us triune was birthed from me.
Me:
The “me” aspect of the triune represents the individual, emphasizing self-awareness, personal growth, and well-being. It encompasses aspects such as self-care, self-improvement, and self-expression. By prioritizing self-awareness and self-care, individuals can cultivate resilience, confidence, and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. Investing in personal growth and development enables individuals to unlock their full potential and pursue their goals with clarity and purpose.
You:
The “you” component of the triune represents the interpersonal relationships and connections between individuals. It highlights empathy, communication, and collaboration as essential elements of meaningful relationships. By fostering open and respectful communication, individuals can build trust, understanding, and mutual support with others. Cultivating empathy and compassion allows individuals to connect authentically with others, fostering deeper relationships and a sense of belonging.
Us:
The “us” dimension of the triune represents the collective or community, emphasizing cooperation, shared values, and collective impact. It encompasses collaboration, teamwork, and community engagement as vital aspects of building a cohesive and thriving society. By working together towards common goals and shared values, communities can address challenges, drive positive change, and create a more inclusive and equitable world for all. Cultivating a sense of belonging and collective responsibility fosters solidarity, resilience, and collective well-being.
Integration:
The integration of “me,” “you,” and “us” is essential for creating harmony and synergy in personal and social contexts. When individuals prioritize self-awareness and personal growth (“me”), they are better equipped to engage authentically and empathetically with others (“you”). Through meaningful connections and relationships (“you”), individuals can contribute positively to the collective well-being and prosperity of the community (“us”). By nurturing the interconnectedness of “me,” “you,” and “us,” individuals and communities can cultivate resilience, collaboration, and collective flourishing.
Let’s not forget the Trinity of God. Let’s look at it through the lens of both the Triune of Health and the Triune of Life:
The Trinity of God, a central doctrine in Christianity, refers to the belief in one God who exists in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity is understood to be fully God, co-equal and co-eternal, yet distinct in their roles and relationships. The Trinity represents the mystery of God’s unity and diversity, as well as the dynamic relationship between the divine persons.
Triune of Health:
Father (God the Father): In the Triune of Health, the Father can be seen as analogous to the body, representing the physical aspect of health. Just as God the Father is the source and sustainer of life, the body is the vessel through which life is experienced and expressed. It is the tangible, material aspect of health that requires care and nourishment.
Son (Jesus Christ): The Son correlates with the mind in the Triune of Health, symbolizing the mental and emotional dimensions of well-being. Jesus Christ is often associated with wisdom, healing, and renewal, paralleling the role of the mind in shaping thoughts, emotions, and attitudes. Like the Son bringing healing and redemption, the mind plays a crucial role in promoting mental health and resilience.
Holy Spirit (Holy Spirit): The Holy Spirit corresponds to the spirit in the Triune of Health, representing the spiritual dimension of health and vitality. The Holy Spirit is seen as the divine presence that indwells believers, guiding, empowering, and transforming them. Similarly, the spirit in the Triune of Health signifies the inner essence or spiritual aspect of individuals, reflecting their connection to something greater than themselves.
Triune of Life:
Father (Creation): In the Triune of Life, the Father represents the dimension of creation, symbolizing the beginning and source of life. God the Father is the creator of all things, and creation reflects His divine wisdom and beauty. Similarly, the dimension of creation acknowledges the interconnectedness and diversity of life forms, emphasizing the inherent value and sacredness of all living beings.
Son (Preservation): The Son correlates with preservation in the Triune of Life, signifying the sustenance and maintenance of life. Jesus Christ is described as the sustainer of all things, upholding creation and providing for its needs. Likewise, preservation involves nurturing, protecting, and caring for life in all its forms, ensuring the continuity and vitality of ecosystems and communities.
Holy Spirit (Transformation): The Holy Spirit corresponds to transformation in the Triune of Life, representing the dynamic process of growth, change, and renewal. The Holy Spirit is seen as the agent of transformation, working in individuals and communities to bring about spiritual renewal and empowerment. Similarly, transformation acknowledges the inevitability of change and evolution in the cycle of life, fostering adaptation, resilience, and growth.
In summary, the Trinity of God resonates with the Triune of Health and the Triune of Life, highlighting the interconnectedness and sacredness of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health and well-being within the context of divine creation and sustenance.
At present, I am really interested in George Goodheart. Here are some additional prompts and frameworks within George Goodheart’s triune approach to holistic health and well-being. Here are some ideas:
Muscle Testing: Experiment with muscle testing techniques, such as applied kinesiology, to gain insights into the body’s structural, chemical, and mental/emotional imbalances. Use muscle testing to identify areas of weakness or stress and explore how adjustments in these areas can promote overall well-being.
Nutritional Testing: Consider incorporating nutritional testing methods, such as blood tests, hair mineral analysis, or functional medicine assessments, to evaluate your body’s nutritional status and identify any deficiencies or imbalances. Use this information to tailor your diet and supplementation to support optimal health and vitality.
Emotional Release Techniques: Explore various techniques for releasing emotional blockages and promoting emotional well-being, such as emotional freedom techniques (EFT), somatic experiencing, or mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). Practice these techniques to cultivate emotional resilience and balance.
Body-Mind Connection Exercises: Engage in exercises and practices that promote awareness of the body-mind connection, such as yoga, tai chi, or Feldenkrais method. These practices can help you tune into the subtle signals of your body and mind and cultivate greater harmony and integration.
Holistic Lifestyle Assessment: Conduct a holistic lifestyle assessment to evaluate how your daily habits and routines impact your structural, chemical, and mental/emotional health. Identify areas for improvement and implement changes that support overall well-being, such as improving sleep hygiene, managing stress, or enhancing social connections.
Energy Healing Modalities: Explore energy healing modalities, such as Reiki, acupuncture, or energy psychology, to balance and harmonize the body’s energetic systems. Experiment with these modalities to promote relaxation, reduce pain, and enhance overall vitality.
Mind-Body Medicine: Delve into mind-body medicine approaches, such as biofeedback, guided imagery, or hypnotherapy, to harness the power of the mind to influence physical health and well-being. Use these techniques to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support healing.
Environmental Considerations: Evaluate how your physical environment impacts your health and well-being, including factors such as air quality, lighting, noise levels, and ergonomic design. Make adjustments to create a supportive and nourishing environment that enhances your overall vitality.
Self-Care Practices: Develop a personalized self-care routine that encompasses practices to support your structural, chemical, and mental/emotional health. Include activities such as meditation, journaling, exercise, and time in nature to nurture your holistic well-being.
Integrative Health Coaching: Consider working with an integrative health coach who can support you in integrating the principles of George Goodheart’s triune approach into your daily life. Collaborate with your coach to set goals, overcome obstacles, and create sustainable lifestyle changes that promote long-term health and vitality.
These prompts and frameworks within George Goodheart’s triune approach provide valuable tools and resources for fostering holistic health and well-being on all levels of your being. Experiment with different approaches and practices to discover what resonates most with you and supports your journey toward optimal wellness.