Taking care of our bodies is a spiritual discipline
“Did you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit …?”
— 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)
My son called to tell me about the fabulous deal he got on a treadmill.
It was a deluxe model with all the perks. As you walk, you can see your heart’s rate of acceleration, how many miles you’ve hiked, your rate of speed, and then some. He proclaimed that he decided this was the year they would work on getting his body in good shape.
A friend of mine recently joined a popular health club. Midlife fatigue, bumps and bulges made her realize that she wasn’t getting the exercise she needed, and she decided it was time to take some action.
Did you know that eating right and exercising are actually spiritual disciplines?
I never use to think of them that way before either. However, when you realize our health is important in being able to carry out our life’s purpose, it makes sense. Without optimal heath, we are unable to fulfill our tasks, talents, and function at our peak performance the way God intended us to.
Now, I’m not telling you this to put you on a guilt trip or to encourage you to join a health club or buy the latest and greatest in exercise equipment. I have to work at this too. But if we are going to be equipped to live life to the fullest, we have a God-given responsibility to be disciplined.
Many of the illnesses we acquire can be avoided or managed through healthy eating and a regular exercise regime. Involve God, by praying and asking him to show you how you may stay motivated and establish an exercise routine for you.
As a nurse I’d like to provide you with a few tips as well:
1. Check with you doctor to see if you have any restrictions.
2. Remember a regular walk can enhance your well-being by increasing your endorphin hormones.
3. Exercise can improve your sleep (if not done too close to bedtime), suppress your appetite, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, strengthen weak muscles and decrease fatigue.
These are just a few of the physical benefits derived from a simple exercise plan. To stay motivated, try inviting a friend to join you. Now is as good at time as any, to take charge of the gift of life God has given us.
Ÿ Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, inspirational speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted to speak to any size group by contacting her at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or (847) 543-8413.