What physical and spiritual challenges must Saul overcome in order to restore harmony in his life?

I think you are referring to much later in the book than chapter 1. Saul eventually has to go back to nature, back to God's lake where he felt at peace. Saul had to escape the white world that destroyed him. Saul needed to find that place where he and his grandmother had peace, contentment, and balance. It is only at God's Lake where he can heal his wounded spirit. Saul's body needs to come alive again. His body needs to rest from the alcohol poison.