In the church we look on the body as a temple. It is important that we take care of our bodies and that we do not desecrate them. We are counseled to avoid tattoos (if you had one before you joined the church, it is a different story), only pierce our ears once, and to keep our appearance neat and comely. This is important since we are all representatives of the church.
Since we are supposed to make sure that our appearances our clean and appropriate, is it not just as important to take care of our bodies so that they are physically fit? I do not mean that each of us needs to be a size six or have the body of a weight lifter. It is important that we take care of our bodies, so that we are in good condition and healthy.
The Word of Wisdom provides counsel on avoiding harmful substances. It counsels us to eat grains, fruits and vegetables. It does not address the current problem of fatty food and sweets. However I feel that the spirit of the Word of Wisdom urges each of us to embrace a healthy lifestyle as we take care of our bodies.
It is the spirit of the Word of Wisdom, which urges us to exercise, eat well and get enough sleep. These challenges can be difficult to accomplish. It is important to begin with baby steps. You may want to start by seeing what things you can stop doing in order to more fully embrace taking care of your body. You may need to give up your Dr. Pepper habit or start to go to bed earlier. It may be that you cut back on the amount of sweets you eat.
Eventually you may look to make bigger changes. You may change your diet to include more whole grains, fruits and vegetables. You may begin an exercise program. You may also encourage your entire family to make these changes. As you embrace a healthy lifestyle you will feel more energy and happier. The promises of the Word of Wisdom will apply to you.
My husband and I are beginning to make some of these changes in our family. We are walking together when the weather is warm. We are also beginning to eat healthier than we have in the past. Our energy levels have increased. It is a great feeling.
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