Often we think of the Word of Wisdom and think simply of the things, which we should not be doing: drinking coffee, smoking, drinking alcohol, and using drugs. We overlook the simple premise of the Word of Wisdom, which is to take care of our bodies in a positive and healthy way. In his talk “The Word of Wisdom: The Principles and the Promises” President Boyd K Packer said:
“Honor the principle of the Word of Wisdom and you will receive the promised blessings. ‘All saints,’ the revelation promises, ‘who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments,’ are promised that they ‘shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones’ and ‘shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint’ (D&C 89:18, 20).
“The Word of Wisdom does not promise you perfect health, but it teaches how to keep the body you were born with in the best condition and your mind alert to delicate spiritual promptings.”
One of the blessings of following the Word of Wisdom is that we will better be able to take care of ourselves. It is important to make sure that we are following the true spirit of the Word of Wisdom. Are you taking care of yourself if you overeat on a regular basis? Are you taking care of yourself if you neglect to exercise? Are you taking care of yourself if you are not getting enough sleep everyday?
I know that I certainly have areas in which I can improve. I can tell a difference in the way I feel the way I treat others and the way that I respond to stressful situations when I have been taking care of myself versus times that I am not. We are responsible for caring for our earthly bodies. You can learn more about church guidelines for this here.