Monday, July 27, 2009

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Exercise and spirituality Over the years people have relentlessly sought to answer the question: Why should I exercise? To fully understand or answer this question, we all need to dig a little deeper and understand ourselves spiritually. What do we believe? Why do we believe what we believe? And, can what I believe sustain me through the physical aspect of exercise? The answers have nothing to do with our religious background, or with belonging to a particular denomination. It simply questions and challenges how we handle certain situations whether we have a belief system in place or not. We are under a divine obligation to take care of our bodies, soul and spirit. Our value system may be the motivation we need to exercise. Our personal belief system can give us the drive to exercise. Our beliefs are the most motivational tools we have. The way we treat our bodies has everything to do with stewardship, and stewardship of our bodies simply means that we need to take better care of our health. We limit ourselves when we downgrade stewardship to merely financial aspects — tithing, talents, and our gifts. The word health is derived from the old English word "hal", which means whole. Everything we interact with, the place we live, the air we breathe, the food we eat, the job we have, the people we associate with definitely affects our position on the health continuum. We should not just be concerned about what dress size to fit into, how trimmed our abs can look, or what kind of food we should eat, but rather, the wholesome attitude we enjoy as a result of our improved level of fitness that enables us to be at peace with ourselves. This is a powerful connection. How many of our brothers and sisters struggle daily with the notion of just preparing themselves to exercise? If there is no visible spiritual foundation, we may never reach the exercise facility. Many of us say that we need to think about it and prepare ourselves mentally. Others feel the need to go and do something on their own before starting an exercise program. Many of us are faithful in following God's spiritual directives, but most of us fail to follow them concerning our responsibility to care for His temple. It is all spiritual. Spiritual wellness connects us in such a way that it has a striking influence on physical health and total well-being. If you are having trouble getting started with your exercise routine, or staying motivated, just say a short prayer asking God for the strength, determination and mental toughness to not only begin, but to ascend to a level that can be considered a spiritual high. Remember, the secret of our health lies in our daily routine. Fitness instructor Natasha Brown's column will seek to provide routines, training, motivational and spiritual tips to enhance student athletes, senior citizens, physically challenged, the disabled as well as elite athletes. Always consult with your doctor before starting an exercise routine. Monday, June 29, 2009