From Doubt to Devotion: A Journey of Faith and Natural Healing

By Emmah Muya

In ‘From Doubt to Devotion: A Journey of Faith and Natural Healing’, readers will embark on an engaging exploration of the synergy of faith and the remarkable power of natural healing. This exciting narrative takes you on a captivating journey, offering a fascinating blend of spiritual discovery and holistic wellness. Dive into a story that weaves together faith, healing, and self-discovery, offering an experience that is both enlightening and thought-provoking. As you follow the protagonist's quest for faith and wellness, you'll find yourself drawn into a world where miracles unfold and devotion becomes the path to profound healing. The title itself promises a transformational odyssey, making it a must-read for those in search of an intriguing and inspiring narrative. It’s not just a book; it’s a transformative journey from doubt to unwavering devotion, where faith leads to profound wellness and spiritual discovery. Explore it today.

• Language: English
• Publisher: The Conrad Press
• Release date: May 10, 2024
• ISBN: 9781839787164

Book preview

Preface

Dear Reader,

Have you ever found yourself standing at a crossroads, rocking on the precipice of doubt, searching for meaning and healing in a world filled with uncertainty? If so, welcome to the pages of From Doubt to Devotion: A Journey of Faith and Natural Healing. You hold in your hands a story of transformation, a testament to the boundless capacity of the human spirit to overcome obstacles and embrace the extraordinary.

In the following chapters, I invite you to embark on a remarkable journey that traces the footsteps of doubt as it transforms into unwavering devotion. It's a voyage that begins with questioning faith and leads to the profound discovery of divine healing, mental restoration, and spiritual awakening.

This book is more than just my personal narrative; it is a beacon of hope and a roadmap to a life rich in faith and natural vitality. It's a tale of redemption and restoration, a reminder that even in the darkest hours of doubt, the light of faith can illuminate our path.

We will explore the intricacies of faith—how it wavers, weaves its threads into the fabric of our lives, and how it ultimately transforms us. You'll witness the miraculous restoration of mental health, the revival of physical well-being, and the rejuvenation of the spirit. Through my experiences, you'll discover that faith is not a passive state of being but a dynamic force that can guide us toward healing and wholeness.

As we navigate this journey together, we'll delve into the profound connection between faith and natural healing. We'll explore the wisdom of embracing a diet rich in natural foods and adhering to health laws woven into the very fabric of our existence.

In addition to these profound insights, you will also receive practical tools to guide you on your next steps in life's journey. In my 5 Steps on the Transformational Path to Holistic Health, you'll find a comprehensive strategy to enhance your faith, health, and overall well-being.

I hope this book will inspire you and empower you to take control of your journey—whether you are seeking faith, health, or both. It's a call to action, a reminder that transformation is possible for anyone willing to take that first step from doubt to devotion.

So, open these pages with an open heart and a curious mind. Allow the story of my journey to become a catalyst for your own. Let it be the spark that ignites your faith, revitalizes your health, and renews your sense of purpose.

Thank you for joining me on this extraordinary odyssey. May your path be illuminated by the light of faith and find healing and devotion beyond your wildest dreams.

With faith and gratitude,

Emmah Muya

Author of: From Doubt to Devotion: A Journey of Faith and Natural Healing

Chapter 1: From humble beginnings to wholesome living

My story began in the heart of Kitale, Kenya, nestled beneath the majestic shadow of Mount Elgon. Growing up in a bustling household of twelve, I was surrounded by an atmosphere of warmth and love that defined our close-knit family. With its fertile soil and bountiful rainfall, Kitale was more than just our home; it was a tapestry of agricultural richness that painted the backdrop of our lives.

The rhythms of our existence were woven with the seasons, and Kitale's unique charm lay in its ability to provide. From our family farm to the vibrant Kitale Municipal Market, our meals celebrated freshness. The market itself was a sensory delight, a bustling hub of colors, aromas, and flavours. Fruits and vegetables burst with vibrancy, spices whispered tales of distant lands, and herbs added fragrant notes to our culinary canvas. Fresh meat arrived from local abattoirs, and occasional treats came from fish caught from Lake Victoria in Kisumu.

Our nourishment was deeply rooted in our local community. The corner shop, a focal point of daily life, supplied essentials and fostered a sense of togetherness. Processed foods, fast foods, and other modern temptations were distant concepts; our focus was on the simple, the fresh, and the nourishing.

But there was more to our lives than the abundance of nature's bounty. Every Sunday, as the sun painted the sky with hues of gold, our family would gather for a different kind of feast—spiritual nourishment. We would make our way to Kitale's heart, the PCEA church that stood as a beacon of faith and community. These moments of devotion and unity would shape our values and instil a deep sense of purpose in us.

Growing up in Kitale taught me the profound value of locally sourced, fresh food and the beauty of a life connected to the land. It instilled in me the principles of community, self-sufficiency, and resourcefulness. These early experiences guided my perspective on food and well-being, reminding me of the power of a wholesome and sustainable lifestyle.

My mother was in the heart of our home, the epitome of strength and the guardian of our balanced diet. She understood the significance of nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods and made it her mission to provide nutritious, fulfilling meals. I can still see her buying sacks of whole grains—maize, beans, rice, and legumes—meticulously stocking our store with nature's treasures. With minimal access to refrigeration, our meals thrived on the daily harvest of fresh, unprocessed ingredients.

Life in Kitale was a simple, harmonious dance. We traversed our world on foot, finding our way to school, church, the market, and friends' homes. 

Our community was not just familiar faces but extended family, where genuine unity thrived. Evenings were a symphony of laughter as we played games with neighbourhood children, cherishing the bonds of friendship and shared joy. Nights came early, as few distractions kept us from the embrace of restful slumber.

This is where my journey began—from humble beginnings to a profound appreciation for the nourishment of body, mind, and soul. Kitale is more than a place on the map; it is the cradle of my beliefs and the foundation upon which I would build a life filled with faith, health, and the wisdom of natural living.

Moving to the UK

However, everything changed when I made the monumental shift to the United Kingdom. Leaving behind the tranquil and familiar life in the small town of Kitale, where I knew almost everyone, I found myself in a foreign land that presented me with a culture shock of immense proportions. The contrast between the easygoing lifestyle I had known and the bustling, fast-paced environment of London was overwhelming.

Suddenly, I was navigating through a sea of unfamiliar faces, struggling to adjust to the customs and norms of this new country. The abundance of choices and opportunities that greeted me was both exciting and bewildering. The bustling streets, towering buildings, and the constant hum of activity were a far cry from the serene simplicity of Kitale.

As I embarked on this new chapter of my life, I realized that I had to adapt and find my place in this foreign land. It was a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and embracing the unknown. Despite the challenges and the initial culture shock, I was determined to carve out a new path for myself, blending the values and experiences from my upbringing with the opportunities and diversity that London had to offer.

As I navigated the vibrant streets of London, I couldn't help but feel swept up in a whirlwind of change and possibility. The city's relentless energy, in stark contrast to the serene simplicity of Kitale, brought forth a transformation I could never have anticipated. Gone were the strolls to the local market or corner shop, replaced by towering supermarkets housing a world of pre-packaged convenience. Suddenly, the once-unfamiliar delights of my hometown, like chocolates and cheese, were within reach, albeit at a price.

But it wasn't just my relationship with food that underwent a profound shift. London, a melting pot of cultures, faiths, and beliefs, confronted me with a beautiful mosaic of diversity. Amid this dynamic city, I tasted the newfound freedom of navigating life without the constant guidance of my parents. The array of job opportunities beckoned, leading me to self-discovery and challenging my core beliefs and perspectives.

In Kitale, life had been more straightforward. I lived under my parents' roof, contributing to the family business and surrounded by the comfort of familiar routines. Yet, the transition to the UK thrust me into a world of self-reliance and solitude. The change was enormous, reshaping my surroundings and the essence of who I was. It was when my way of thinking, habits, and eating choices transitioned.

The allure of fast food and processed meals beckoned a convenient refuge in the face of a demanding lifestyle that left little time for culinary exploration. Cooking from scratch became a distant memory, and I surrendered to the quick fixes and takeout temptations that London readily offered.

At the time, I focused primarily on satisfying my hunger. I paid little attention to the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the significance of proper nutrition. Unaware of the potential consequences, I unknowingly exposed myself to various toxins through my diet, suffered from malnutrition due to poor health, and left my body defenseless against potential diseases.

Amidst the vibrant tempo of life, I unknowingly succumbed to choices that compromised my well-being. Only with time did I discover the profound impact these choices had on my holistic health – mentally, spiritually, and physically.

At first, my parents generously provided the financial support I needed to get by, but I soon realized the weight it placed on their shoulders and the importance of my independence. Pursuing a stable future, I embarked on a journey through various unconventional jobs in London, even extending to care for an elderly lady with dementia. However, it became clear that this path wasn't aligned with my true purpose. A genuine hunger for personal and professional growth ignited, prompting me to return to academia. There, I pursued my studies in Travel and Tourism, a decision that opened a gateway to thrilling career opportunities. This educational pursuit propelled me into a whirlwind of work. I continue with unhealthy eating, but able to afford the gym and have awe-inspiring travel adventures.

In that chapter of my life, destiny had a wonderful surprise waiting. I met my future husband within the same company I worked for. Our connection deepened with every passing day, and seven years into our marriage, I received the most heartwarming news: the arrival of our beloved daughter, who is now 15 years old.

The news of my pregnancy brought immense joy and anticipation. I eagerly awaited the arrival of our daughter. However, as the first trimester passed, I began experiencing intense cravings for cheese, cured meats, chocolates, and sweets. No matter how much I ate, these cravings persisted, and I remained unsatisfied.

Consequently, by the time my daughter was born, I had gone from a size 10 to a size 14, gaining around 18 kilograms in the nine months of pregnancy.

Unlike anything I had experienced before, weight gain came with its own emotional challenges. My self-esteem took a hit, and I struggled with low confidence and overpowering self-consciousness. It was a difficult period for me as I grappled with the changes in my body and their emotional impact on my overall well-being.

Determined to regain my pre-pregnancy weight and reclaim a sense of normalcy, I wasted no time and joined a gym as soon as I regained my strength after giving birth. With a positive mindset and unwavering willpower, I embarked on my fitness journey, believing I could swiftly overcome the situation I was in.

I underwent the usual induction process with a new gym instructor, armed with clear goals and a determination to achieve them. However, as I began exercising, I quickly realized that something had shifted within me. The excess weight I had gained and the lack of energy I now experienced posed significant challenges. It became evident that my enthusiasm and willpower alone were insufficient to propel me forward. I was faced with exhaustion and pure agony.

Understanding the predicament I was in, I refused to give up. I ventured into different types of exercise, including dance and swimming, hoping to find a solution. Yet, each attempt yielded the same self-defeating results. Going to the gym was no longer a pleasurable experience, and I could not say I enjoyed it. My body seemed to have its agenda, and my cravings had spiralled out of control. It felt like I was sliding down a slippery slope, losing control over my physical and emotional well-being.

A journey of transition

As I completed my secondary education, my dreams soared high, just like my friends who had set their sights on America for their higher studies. America seemed like the land of opportunity, and I was determined to join my peers there. When I shared this dream with my mother, she didn't dismiss it as impossible. Instead, she encouraged me to explore the path and let her know how I intended to get there.

With her support and determination, I took the first steps towards my American dream. Applications were filled, admissions secured, and everything was falling into place. The only hiccup was the late arrival of my admission letter, which landed on my doorstep just days before my classes were scheduled to begin. It was a race against time.

Without a moment to spare, we embarked on an eight-hour journey to Nairobi, where I urgently needed to obtain my passport. The pressure was mounting, and every hour counted. I acquired my passport on a Thursday and dashed to the American embassy the next day. However, destiny had other plans. The embassy's door closed when I was about to enter, and I was told to return on Monday.

Monday morning arrived, and I stood before the embassy, eager and anxious. It was the day that would decide my fate. The verdict was disheartening; I couldn't make it to the United States in time for my classes. My dreams appeared to be slipping through my fingers.

Amid the whirlwind of emotions that followed, my mother met a friend who would inadvertently change the course of my life. Learning of my predicament, her friend suggested a different path that led to the United Kingdom, where her son had also pursued his education. It was a turning point.  

The United Kingdom, a world away from my familiar Kenyan surroundings, was daunting. I arrived in January unprepared for the bone-chilling cold that enveloped me. The warmth of Kitale was replaced by an icy embrace that left me shivering in thin clothing. Though substantial in Kenyan Shillings, the money I had brought with me seemed to vanish rapidly in this foreign land.

Life in the UK was a stark contrast to the simplicity of my hometown. The cost of living was high, and the challenges were abundant. Yet, with each obstacle, I was forging a new identity - one that blended the values of my upbringing with the opportunities London presented.

The bustling streets of London, teeming with diversity and dynamism, posed opportunities and trials. It was a city that never slept, unlike the tranquil nights of Kitale. As I navigated this urban jungle, I couldn't help but feel swept up in a whirlwind of change and possibility. The towering supermarkets with pre-packaged convenience replaced the local market, and the once-distant indulgences like chocolates and cheese were now within reach, albeit at a price.

This shift extended beyond my culinary choices. London's vibrant mosaic of cultures exposed me to new perspectives and beliefs, and I tasted the freedom of navigating life without my parents' continuous guidance. The world of job opportunities beckoned, and I embraced the chance for personal and professional growth.

Yet, the allure of fast food and processed meals soon took hold, and the business of life meant I didn't go to church as often. Convenience became my mantra in a fast-paced life, leaving little time for culinary exploration. Cooking from scratch became a distant memory, and I succumbed to quick fixes and takeout temptations. Unbeknownst to me, these choices set the stage for a health crisis.

As my parents initially supported me financially, I felt the weight of their sacrifices and the importance of my independence. I explored unconventional jobs in London, even caring for an elderly lady with dementia. However, it became clear that this path needed to be aligned with my true purpose. A yearning for personal and professional growth led me back to learn, where I pursued studies in Travel and Tourism. 

The journey to transformation

Completing my studies in travel and tourism opened the door to a world of exciting career possibilities. I found myself amid a whirlwind of work, but my old habits persisted - the same unhealthy eating choices and lifestyle that had begun to take their toll.

During this time, I was truly fortunate to have supportive managers who became guiding lights on my professional journey. My role as an airline ticket agent meant I spent my days dealing with huge airline files, a task I immensely enjoyed and answering calls that seemed daunting due to my accent. I had been in the UK for only a few years, and my accent made me self-conscious. My manager, now my dearest friend, encouraged me to embrace my uniqueness. She saw my potential and reminded me that being understood wasn't just about words; it was about the passion and dedication I brought to my work.

As the months went by, I was promoted to a supervisor. With this newfound role came a newfound confidence. I stopped caring about how I sounded and dedicated my time to excelling at work. However, this transformation was one-sided. While my career was flourishing, my health and well-being were spiralling downwards.

My daily routine was a symphony of unhealthy choices. Starting my day with a McBreakfasts, greasy wedges, fried chicken for lunch, and takeout pizzas or other quick fixes for dinner became the norm. Exercise was a concept I had left behind, and self-care was a luxury I couldn't afford.

Amidst this whirlwind of change, destiny had a grander plan in store. I encountered the man who would become my husband in the same company where I worked. Our connection deepened day by day, and after a few years, we celebrated our marriage and began sharing our lives.

As joyous as this new chapter was, it also introduced a new challenge - pregnancy. The news was met with excitement but came with a powerful craving for comfort foods. Cheese, cured meats, chocolates, and sweets became my constant companions, and no matter how much I consumed, the cravings persisted, leaving me unsatisfied and baffled by my own appetite.

My body underwent radical changes as my pregnancy progressed, and I gained weight alarmingly. The transformation from a size 10 to a size 14 meant more than just a shift in my appearance; it profoundly impacted my self-esteem. Feelings of self-consciousness and low confidence haunted me during this tumultuous time.

Determined to regain my pre-pregnancy weight and restore my self-esteem, I wasted no time joining a gym after giving birth. Armed with enthusiasm and a strong will, I embarked on my fitness journey, believing that I could conquer any obstacle that came my way.

Yet, the gym proved to be an unexpected challenge. Despite my determination, my body resisted the demands of exercise, and I was left feeling exhausted and demoralized. Each workout seemed like a losing battle, and frustration and self-doubt took root.

Undeterred, I explored various forms of exercise, hoping to find a solution to my physical and emotional struggles. However, each attempt brought me back to the same place - feeling trapped by my relationship with food and dwindling control over my physical and emotional well-being.

This period marked a profound transition and transformation in my life. My journey from Kenya to the UK brought unforeseen opportunities and challenges, molding me into a person I

Reviews for From Doubt to Devotion

[sara.dragusha · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this book. A beautiful inspiration that helped me overcome my doubts. STRONGLY recommend.

[zarahmorfino · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was an amazing, emotional experience of a book and I truly recommend it for those who feel inspired to learn about health and God!