Revelation: A story about my first revelation in not giving up on fitness.

I must admit, starting this blog has made me think of a lot of weird new topics. My mind took Health and Fitness to another level the other day. I started to think about my favorite leader and role model, Jesus, and what he would write about if he were to ever create a Health and Fitness Blog...I had nothing. There was no real clear teaching about the importance of maintaining good fitness habits in the bible...Just this idea alone, actually made fitness less attractive to me and believe it or not, I soon began to question, "Why do I work out?" and "How important is it to be fit?" I mean, with my busy schedule, should I really make time to "Fit it In?" Well...Keep reading and you will soon find out what was shown to me...

I was looking in the mirror asking myself these questions about the importance of fitness. I even shared with Jenn my striking new thought and well...she thought I was crazy. First, I began to measure my level of "unintentional" physical activity, then I looked at my overall weight and diet. All of these things seemed to be looking pretty good. I walk to class daily, my weight is controlled, and my diet is superb. Thumbs up to me! Looks like I qualify! :D

...but then...I had a mighty revelation...and it all became clear to me, that is How Life Would Be Without Exercise.

Imagine...being 90 yrs. old. wrinkled skin, droopy features, few muscles, and lots of shaky bones. Your lying in bed and if you sleep the wrong way your bones will shift. Your weak (still cute though) but weak...you have that image? Think about how you will smell, look, think, feel and move...hmmm...

As a Western Nation, we are so blessed to have an abundance of tools made just for our comfort, which is exactly why I can't compare my fitness level with that of a person living in an area where such materials are limited. Because I don't live in an area where I have to walk from town to town and most of us have jobs that require more sitting than standing...well...Exercise should be one of the first things that I focus on during the week. Jesus didnt have to "Fit in" exercise because where he lived, exercise was a way of life. Time was expected to be taken in order to walk from town to town.

 ...I have never walked from one town to the next but that may very well be the next goal that I set. Hmmm...Murfreesboro to Shelbyville...

Exercise

•   KEEPS YOU HEALTHY! :D Regular physical activity can help you prevent or manage a wide range of health problems and concerns, including stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, depression, certain types of cancer, arthritis and falls.

• IMPROVES YOUR MOOD   Physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. You may also feel better about your appearance and yourself when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem.

• GIVES YOU POWER AND ENERGY! Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. Exercise and physical activity deliver oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and help your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy to go about your daily chores

• DEEPENS YOUR SLEEP Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep. Just don't exercise too close to bedtime, or you may be too energized to fall asleep.

• IS FUN!!! :D Exercise and physical activity can be a fun way to spend some time. It gives you a chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors or simply engage in activities that make you happy. Physical activity can also help you connect with family or friends in a fun social setting. So, take a dance class, hit the hiking trails or join a soccer team. Find a physical activity you enjoy, and just do it. If you get bored, try something new.

BOTTOM LINE

Exercise and physical activity are a great way to feel better, gain health benefits and have fun. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more. Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any health concerns.

Reference: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/HQ01676