Good health important to carry out God's purpose for our lives

"Did you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit…?"

- 1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)

By Annettee Budzban

Daily Herald Correspondent

A friend of mine recently joined a health club. Midlife fatigue, bumps, and bulges made her realize she wasn't getting the exercise she needed and decided it was time to take some action.

Discipline comes in many forms. Most people don't realize eating right and exercising are actually spiritual disciplines. However, God informs us to take care of our bodies, because our health is important in being able to carry out God's purpose for our lives. Without optimal health, we are unable to fulfill our tasks, talents, and function in our peak performance the way God intended us to.

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 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 to stay motivated and establish a routine for yourself. God's answer may not come as an audible voice, but you may read something that makes sense, or have a conversation with a friend and realize something that was said strikes a chord with you.

As a nurse I'd like to provide a few simple tips as well:

Check with your doctor to see if you have any restrictions.

Walking on a regular basis, even three times a week can enhance your physical and emotional well-being by increasing your endorphin hormones. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time. Make sure take a break and walk around for a few minutes.

Exercise can improve your sleep (if not done too close to bedtime). It can also suppress your appetite for those who are dieting, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, strengthen weak muscle and decrease fatigue.

These are a few physical benefits derived from a simple exercise plan. Now is as good a time as any to take charge of the gift of life God has given us.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted at (847) 543-8413 or annetteebudzban@aol.com.