The Whole and Healthy Family: Helping Your Kids Thrive in Mind, Body, and Spirit

by Jodi Mockabee

All parents want their children to thrive, but what does that actually look like? And what does it take to get there? In The Whole and Healthy Family, Jodi Mockabee shares her parenting philosophy, one that encourages the equipping of each unique child to be able to function as a whole person so that they can enter adulthood as physically, spiritually, and mentally healthy individuals. Developed over years of research and personal practice, Jodi's whole-person and whole-family approach shows you how to

· understand your personality and those of your spouse and children
· create a simple, wholesome home environment
· make healthy and nourishing meals
· stay active as a family
· prioritize spiritual growth and serving together
· affirm and bless one another
· and more

Whether you're just starting your family or have been in the parenting trenches for a while and are looking for a fresh alternative to the way you've been doing things, Jodi can help you create a family culture that allows for the flourishing of every family member in mind, body, and spirit.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Family, Christian, Audiobook, Christianity, Health

206 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2022

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. I have some really mixed feelings about this book. If I had any clue of how insanely (psychotically?) crunchy she is, I probably wouldn’t have read this. As someone who values a healthy lifestyle, my jaw was constantly on the floor at some of her suggestions:
- only having unpainted wooden blocks for your young children to play with, NOTHING with color.
- only 2-3 shirts & 2 pairs of pants per child, in neutral colors to “like your child better.”
- hiking barefoot
- having one bowl per family member and using that bowl for every meal. No other dishes.
- condemning western medicine and yet saying it has its value at times, then finishing off with “my oldest child has neurological issues, and I’m not saying it was a dose of Tylenol as an infant that did it, but it probably was. I understand you feel guilty if you gave it to your kids too.”
- genetically testing the whole family to find out what they’re pre-disposed to, and making sure they don’t eat any food or “toxins” that could trigger that disease.

There was so much fear-mongering. It’s one thing to decide to only eat raw, fermented foods, but to say THIS IS THE WAY TO BE HEALTHY when you have zero medical or dietary qualifications is laughable. She had some good advice, but none of it was groundbreaking and much of it was plain bonkers. She took her personal convictions and made it The Only Way, and if you follow her steps, your kids will have a better immune system and be perfectly healthy in mind and body, unlike everyone’s disease-ridden kids.

She comes from an extremely privileged place. Her Instagram shows a massive house on tons of lands and woodland. Of course they can hike 15 miles a week or whatever they do! They have resources and desires that do not match with the reality of most families. For a Christian, there was a severe lack of trust in the Lord to care for us and our bodies when we are not eating pounds of sauerkraut or wearing neon colors and thus causing sensory issues in everyone around us. Even with doing all the things, we can still get cancer, autoimmune disorders, or any other number or thing. The Lord is the one who knows every cell of our bodies and gives them permission to stay healthy or mutate. We are responsible to care for our bodies, but it’s not a sin to eat processed foods or give our children sugar, or GASP! Let them wear colors or play with *painted* wooden blocks. No matter what we do, we live in a fallen world and we’ll never be able to beat the curse.

[Kaycee Owens · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve followed Jodi’s blog for years! She has been an inspiration to me as a homeschool mom and homemaker. Many aspects of my day and my parenting have been influenced by her. This book was an even deeper dive into her philosophies and ideas, her heart and love for the Lord. I enjoyed every moment reading this and recommend it to all mothers navigating how best to raise children!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book that’s easy and enjoyable to read, a resource I would’ve loved at the beginning of my parenting journey 22 years ago. Naturopathic tips and even includes how to talk about sex in healthy ways. Not just for homeschooling families, but I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for natural and spiritual (Christian) family living explained in encouraging and doable ways.

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting beliefs and concepts. This is one of those books that you take what interests you or could apply and toss the rest. 😆 With that said I did enjoy some of the points the author made. The book itself, average.

[Terran Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I personally have no children but Jodi’s writing grabbed my attention and gave me an insight into how I should help those around me that have children. They say it takes a village to raise children and honestly after reading her strategies I’m excited to apply the concepts and help my friends who have children. I absolutely love that Jodi encourages others to do their own research while also guiding us along the way. I also love how she’s not afraid to show what hasn’t worked for her and her family. I’ve noticed at least from my general community they want everything to be picture perfect and not discuss what doesn’t work. I may not have children of my own (yet) but this opened my eyes and gives me the confidence to when I do have children to know that not everything is going to work. I would definitely 10 out of 10 recommend!

[Rachel Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodi’s book is a fantastic read for anyone raising a family!! It is full of fresh ideas for curating and building whole and healthy families in this day and age! You are certain to be encouraged and come away with actionable ideas you can implement in your home. A must read!!

[Janessa Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. I loved seeing a parenting book combine all the facets of mind, body, AND spirit. This is an ideal read for a parent who is interested in embracing family minimalism, a very "crunchy"/healthy diet and approach to personal health (like—very very healthy!), prioritizing outdoor time as a family, parenting with the Holy Spirit, and homeschooling.

It is not for everyone. The author said from the beginning this is what SHE does. It doesn't say, this is what you should do too. I think that's an important distinction! If you feel you should apply everything, maybe skip this read. There are tons of practical, tangible activities, recipes, and examples. You can graze for what is for you, and leave the rest.

I found it very inspiring! I'm not as crunchy as the author, although I'm interested, and I'm not as minimalistic, although I love minimalism. So I enjoyed the pieces I won't apply as fully as well. But I particularly enjoyed the chapters focusing on their outdoor lifestyle and homeschooling, and the chapter describing the way she parents in partnership with the Holy Spirit. That part felt so attainable for me, and it was special to find that mixed in here.

[Brittany Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jodi’s new book immediately grabbed my attention. Her writing is candid, thoughtful, and empowering. I enjoyed her sharing what has worked best for her family but that she didn't shy away from areas where they have faced challenges. She encourages the reader to dig deeper into topics and notes other sources that have helped guide her family's choices over the years. As a mother of four, I can relate to her desire to get to the root of an obstacle. We all go through seasons of challenge, but being informed is a powerful feeling. I found myself nodding in agreement and making quick notes on nearly every page. I look forward to referencing this book over the years!

[Lorianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read many parenting books that focus on the parent-child relationship and expected this one to be similar. This book begins by speaking to the importance of a good relationship between husband and wife as the foundation of a healthy family. I found this very encouraging, and will be reading some of the books that the author recommended for a marriage relationship.

The author also gives well-written examples of how being in nature and simplifying the home environment has benefited her family, along with practical tips to help you in your parenting journey.

This is a book I will keep and reread, but at the same time I want to share with all my friends!

[Amberly Tanzosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when people share their honest experiences. Jodi does just that. She doesn’t just make suggestions, she shared what she and her family have done, allowing the whole family to thrive. She shares what didn’t work and what did. I enjoyed reading from the perspective of mind, body and spirit. I’ll be recommending this book to so many friends and family members. Enjoyable for sure.

[Cory Margul · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5. I will take a few ideas from this book moving forward, but so much of it was SO far out of my wheelhouse it was almost laughable. I give much credit to families with the ambition to go fully whole foods or go without a TV until their kids are teens, but clearly we are already too far gone 😆

[Olive · Rating 1 out of 5]

Big yikes. A few good points but it is ultimately lost in the field of false information and pseudoscience

[Shannon McGarvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so pleasantly surprised how much I loved this book. It’s like a Christian holistic mom 101 touching on mind, body, and soul, of our children and families. This book is saturated in scripture, prayers, and accounts of Gods faithfulness. I think I need to buy this in hardback!!

[Liga Rozentale · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a homeschool mum of three children (aged 7, 10, and 15) I find this book to be a gem for a parent’s heart. It reflects on the early years and leads you through various topics all regarding the wholeness of a healthy personality.

I kept writing out quotes from the book and highlighting ideas I’m hoping to try out. Meanwhile, it’s not an advice book but rather a loving conversation with a wise companion.

I loved how authentic many topics were including raising a neurologically atypical child, discussing healthy sex topics within a Christian household, and addressing clever ways to use screen time as a connection point between teens and parents.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brand new book from Jodi of her experience and strategies in raising a family in a whole and healthy way! Broken up into 3 sections, Jodi addresses 3 main areas (mind, body and spirit) to focus on, that help foster wellness for ones whole self. The strategies are applicable to all family types, backgrounds, knowledge and ability to execute. Jodi does not consider herself a guru, and her way the only way, rather she strongly encourages you to do your own research and come to a conclusion that will best suit your family. Mixed with further reading suggestions, scripture and practical suggestions this book is a wealth of knowledge. 

[Kaelee Dewit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I inhaled this book. I read it in less than 24 hours and I loved every bit of it. It’s one of those books that you underline or highlight large chunks of, knowing that you’ll reference it time and time again. Jodi writes in a delightful manner and weaves personal and family stories together with scripture and gentle encouragement. She shares her personal experiences and thoughts with you but also encourages you to do your own research and come to a conclusion that will best suit your family. One of my favorite things is that she provides book recommendations so that you can start doing your own research. Who doesn’t love a book that makes you want to buy more books?! If you’re interested in creating a family culture where the body, mind and spirit can thrive then this is the book for you.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book starts out with a very good disclaimer that “…it is not a ‘how to’ but a ‘how we’ regarding family philosophies, ideas, and culture.”
Reading this book is like sitting down with a wise mom and friend and gleaning wisdom from her years of experience. Jodi has done so many things well and her book provides an opportunity to learn some of her hard won lessons on caring for a family. It’s written to empower parents to do their own research, to seek wisdom from scripture, and strive to care for families physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I highly suggest taking the opportunity to seek wisdom from someone running the race well and read the Whole and Healthy Family.

[sincerely · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I am still on a journey of getting to know who I am as an individual: why I tend to make certain decisions, why I react a specific way, and, most important, how to alter some of those behaviors. Some may call it self-discovery, but I think there can be a fine balance to understanding who you are in order to parent the way God intends."

Whewwwie I LOVED this book! I only just heard about Jodi Mockabee from the 1000 Hours Outside podcast, but she has quite the following so maybe you've heard of her already. Oh man, oh man, I ate this one up! This book is FULL of wonderful encouragement and wisdom for families with a holistic approach. So much of this was the exact lift I needed right at this very moment.

Jodi is a homeschooling mom of 5, who is very passionate about the outdoors, her faith, her family, and their overall wellbeing. She is not afraid to think outside the box or take the road less traveled. She is someone who lives by her convictions - those are my very favorite types of people! So much of her written person appeals to me and I feel like I could probably sit with her for hours and learn a lot! This book is a fantastic look into what has worked for their family. Jodi's tone is calm, educated, humble, and loving. She addresses everything from talking with your kids about sex to supplements for the common cold. Everything is covered here! I highly recommend this one if you are passionate about caring for the *whole* people God has given you - mind, body, and spirit! Well done, Jodi!! I'll refer to this one many times ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+❤️

[Becca Garber · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s unusual to read an account of a homeschooling mother who is just a few years ahead of me (instead of decades!). I drank this book in. Not all of it is applicable to my family (such as their dietary needs), but most of it is. This is the testimony of someone still in the trenches like I am. It is a testimony of a life lived in faithfulness to the Lord thus far, with much wisdom to share, and much more to be gained.

[Cassandra Exsted · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book I didn’t think I needed! Jodi has a way of making you feel like you are sitting with her over a cup of coffee. Brainstorming together while also giving helpful tips, tools, and guidance of where to start where you are and lean into what it look is like to build your family legacy. I devoured this book in 3 days (between naps, bedtime and sneaking pages here and there😉)

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an enjoyable and easy read I did not want to put it down. I loved the honesty and find so much encouragement in Jodi’s words. So many good bits to soak up not matter what stage of parenting you’re currently in, definitely a book to add to your reading list this fall!

[Sonya Knepp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It contains so much intentional parenting wisdom and the personal stories from the author had me both smiling and crying. It’s definitely a reread for me and a book I’ll be gifting to all my mama friends.

[Rebekah Gough · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don’t know where to start writing a review for this book. It was very close to becoming a DNF. I picked this one based on the cute cover, but had no idea how much of a “crunchy/almond” mom slant this book had.
I liked it for the discussion of spending time in nature, spending time as a family, and some recipes at the end. This family sounds very extreme in all areas of life.
It is filled with unsound medical and dietary advice that could be dangerous.

[Kristen Lucia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a refreshing book to give inspiration and challenge us to think about what we can adjust in our own household and how we want to raise our children. Provides good resources for more in depth information and leaves us encouraged in raising a spirit filled family.

[Karli W · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book reminds me of Awaking Wonder in many ways, but with less of a Biblical foundation. Some helpful tips/ ideas, but a lot of trendiness like minimalism. Thus far I like Awaking Wonder much better and would recommend that book over this one.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had a lot of good information but was a bit heavy handed at times for me. One aspect I appreciated was how candid Jodi was about some of her parenting struggles. I did glean a lot and am glad I took the time to listen.

[Bethany · Rating 3 out of 5]

As with all self help books, you have to be willing to consider all sides to the story. While some things I can say I’d like to adopt, such as a more natural approach to medicine and food, i probably won’t be sending my 10 year old on to a roof barefoot. If you are the type of reader to blindly follow someone, maybe this isn’t the book for you. i appreciated all the references to scripture and how God has been able to lead them to make certain decisions, however i don’t think that means everyone should make the same decisions for their family. (the author does state this). It’s hard to read about how to make all the changes to a natural, minimal, lifestyle while seeing her instagram is a picture perfect (semi-crunchy) mommy blog. their house is immaculate, and the family photos are always crisp and clean. It just doesn’t feel realistic. even the “trials” they go through (unemployment, adjusting to autism,etc.) are explained only on a surface level. It’s probably hard to capture your whole life into 250 pages, but if you want to talk about the fullness of God, you have to also talk about the depth of hardship that He pulls you from.

No hate to the crunchy moms. obviously i read this book in the hope that there would be some “crunchy” things for me to learn. It’s pretty clear from the title. so if you have a problem with the chicken raising, homeschooling, dye free, and so on lifestyle then don’t bother reading it. you won’t like it. but, if you’re open and willing to find a thing or two to take into your parenting journey then go for it. i don’t agree with everything she writes, but i do believe that God uses various methods to teach us new things, and that sometimes i can learn from someone i don’t wholly agree with.

[Adam Jarvis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was nothing like what I was expecting. I thought it was a sort of academic study on families in general with a focus on the children. Instead, it’s a homeschool mom giving a descriptive glimpse into the life of her personal family.

There was a lot about the book that reminded me of my own mother (the study in natural healing, alternative medicine, natural foods, etc.), and I felt that on some level, I could relate to their family perspective.

I appreciated that the author says throughout that the book is not intended as a plan to be followed in order to have a whole, healthy, family, but as a description of her own family so that the reader could pick and choose what works for them.
That being said, their family has some rather extreme views and practices. I don’t want to criticize their choices in any way, but I felt this book could either be an inspiration or a discouragement, depending on where you are with your family and what choices you make.

Overall, it was somewhat fascinating, and at other times, eyebrow raising, to get a peek into this family’s life.

I see this as a helpful book for super organized, energetic, homeschooling families that have a huge emphasis on eating whole natural foods, who love to spend time together in the kitchen.

I didn’t really have any practical takeaways from the book that suits my family in our stage of life, but it was an interesting read.

[Brittany Sprague · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the voice of this author. I had never heard of her. As much of the reviews were previous Instagram followers, I wasn't sure what to expect since many were already used to her voice. I found her writing honest and equipping at many points. She early on prefaces that this book is a "how we" not "how to." I also felt she did a very good job of taking what others could become obsessive about and perpetually submitting it to Christ. Thus, I felt challenged and convicted through reading it.

The one critique I would give is that while she desires it to be a "how we" it is in fact a how to. The tagline even says "helping YOUR kids thrive in Mind, Body, and spirit. Thus, it would have benefitted the reader immensely if she added a sort of " if you feel called, these are the starting steps. " She made compelling arguments for many of the areas they have pursued health, but took for granted that many would have already followed her in her story. As a new reader, I wished for beginning steps but often felt I saw the culmination of those efforts in many of the chapters.

Overall, I loved her honesty, her wisdom, and her perpetual turning back to Christ and his work in their family. I admire her frankness and think the book truly does represent how a family can pursue whole health.

[Bronte · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I knew nothing about the author or her social media presence before reading this book. There were many things I liked, but some were hard disagrees.

Things I liked:
-the importance of spending time active & in nature, often barefoot
-eating home cooked meals
-using natural remedies when possible
-embracing simplicity
-being open in an age-appropriate way with kids about sex, and not shaming them
-intentionality with our words, habits, and relationships

Things that were a hard pass for me:
-the not-so-subtle suggestion that her child has autism because she gave him Tylenol as a baby
-how the whole family bent over backwards to give the husband/dad alone time, but we never hear about the same happening for the author
-the idea that husbands are the leaders and loving their wives is a sacrifice, and wives must submit to the husband’s leadership (I get that this is a deeply Christian book, but also..it’s 2025. We can be equal partners. And a husband loving his wife shouldn’t feel like a sacrifice.)
-dress your kids better and only let them wear neutrals and you will like them better