"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies." I Corinthians 6:19-20
"Getting healthy or keeping fit is a daily work in progress. It's not something we can do one time and then forget about it. Kind of like our faith, it is a daily undertaking. Constantly seeking to be the hands and feet of Jesus...Perhaps our personal fitness journey is to remind us that God's work takes time" (Devotional).
When I was a Senior in high school, I suddenly became a health freak. I decided that I wouldn't eat fast food, soda or chips. Cutting those things out of my diet, due to running Cross Country, resulted in a new journey for my life and future career. I grew up in a healthy household, but as I began to learn more, I began to realize that there was so much more that I was uneducated about. So, I began to do research and educate myself on nutrition. And, I learned a lot. But, there is still so much more for me to learn. This is why I grow in anticipation for this next school year as I will begin my courses for my Minor in Nutrition at Azusa Pacific University.
My freshman year of college had its ups and downs with trying to maintain a healthy diet. It was difficult to stay fit when I was drowning in homework and stress. So, I started training for a half marathon and this kept me disciplined and focused. I knew not only did I have to exercise, but if I didn't, I would let my entire family down come race day. But, most importantly, I would let myself down. In February, I completed my first half marathon in Huntington Beach, California. The best advice I have for anyone who is trying to get fit is to do something that you enjoy. If running is not your cup of tea, try something else like rowing, biking, swimming, playing basketball with your kids, hiking...the list goes on and on. But, I guarantee that there is something for everyone out there.
My race had come and gone and my studies continued to increase during my second semester of college. I was getting 4-5 hours of sleep a night, eating foods that weren't the best for you and stopped exercising because I didn't have the time. Yes, I ran two miles about twice a week, but that wasn't cutting it. The combination of lack of sleep, junk food, and lack of exercise resulted in a slight gain in weight and feeling internally sick. I felt like I was destroying what God had given me.
In the past couple months, I have come to the realization that my body is a gift from God and the last thing I want to do is destroy it. In everything we do, we must do what brings glory to God. Furthermore, when we go to the gym and eat healthy, it needs to be for the right reasons. I have a new outlook on life and how I approach fitness. I am getting fit not only so I feel comfortable in my own skin, but so I can attribute everything to God and glorify Him through my hard work and dedication.
Trust me, the hardest part is getting started. The first few days at the gym are difficult, but once you get in that routine of working out and eating healthier options, it will become a part of your lifestyle in which you will thoroughly enjoy what you are doing and furthermore, you will have a testimony. Yes, getting fit for the Kingdom of God is a testimony in itself. It takes time, just as God's work takes time within each of our spiritual lives.
Recently, I was asked if I could share a few of my tips with making a healthier lifestyle change. I would gladly like to share with you a few tips that go a long ways.
First, when it comes to working out, sign up for a race or set goals so that you have something that you are striving towards. As with everything, it will take baby steps, so don't become discouraged along the way. Instead, focus your eyes on the goal and ultimately, the eternal crown that you will receive for all of your discipline and hard work in life.
Second, when it comes to working out, have an accountability partner. If you have a friend of family member who is holding you accountable, you most likely won't ditch your workout plans. You don't want to be a disappointment. Encourage one another and grow together through this journey.
Now, there are so many things to address when it comes to nutrition. It honestly can be quite overwhelming, but it will be very rewarding. The more you learn, the more natural these lifestyle changes will come about.
I'm sure you have heard that you can't just go cold turkey. This is why so many dieting programs fail people, because many people will deprive themselves of all the foods they love. Eating healthy is all about balance and moderation. It's okay to go out for ice cream on Friday night or to enjoy fresh guacamole with tortilla chips every once in a while.
Just like working out, it takes baby steps. So, I will give you a few pieces of advice that I will hope will help immensely.
According to the doctor, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yes, the doctor is absolutely right. When you wake up in the morning, your body has been without food from anywhere to 9-14 hours. Your body needs to be replenished with nutrients that will keep you energized throughout the day. Many people who are on the go in the mornings might find it difficult to eat something besides sugary cereals, but there is a variety of options. Even the so called "healthy" granola is exceedingly high in sugar content, which is why it isn't your best option for breakfast.
Then, what are some quick breakfast foods that will leave you both satisfied, full and energized? There are many, many options, but I will list a few of my favorites. The first is oatmeal with fruit. And, not the oatmeal that comes in packages. Don't even get me started with packaged oatmeal. You might as well eat a spoonful of sugar. Fruit is a great way to make oatmeal a little more sweet naturally. Another great breakfast option is Multi-Grain Toast with all natural peanut butter or almond butter. I emphasize multi-grain. Many people are fooled in to thinking that whole wheat is absolutely great for you, when in fact, it really isn't. Yes, it is a better option than white bread, but you aren't getting any nutrients from whole wheat. Breads that have more nuts and grains like flaxseed in them will provide better health benefits. And, why all natural peanut butter or almond butter? Well, if you have ever looked at peanut butter's ingredients, you will quickly notice that the sugar content and fat content is just as high as a bowl of ice cream.
When it comes to lunch, salads are perfect. First, never use iceberg lettuce as it has no nutiritional value. You might as well just skip the lettuce in that case. Rather, I would suggest spinach, romaine or the spring mix that you can buy at any grocery store. The darker the leaf, the more nutrients it possesses. Second, load the salad with fresh vegetables and a lean protein like chicken, turkey or fish. Lastly, when it comes to dressing, be careful. Many salad dressings are high in fat content and of course once again, sugar. Thus, oil and red wine vinegar is one of my favorite options, alongside, balsamic vinegar.
And, if you aren't a huge salad lover or want other options besides just salads, a few of my favorites are quinoa or couscous with tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and cucumber. Another great source for protein is to sautee onions and then combine it with corn and a variety of beans. Serve over a salad or eat with fresh tomatoes and cheese. There are many other fresh and healthy options, but it would obviously take me the entire year to write on the subject matter. I guess it is a good thing that this is what I want to do with my life- Health and Fitness Journalism.
Please, just try to shy away from all the frozen and microwavable options...unless, it's vegetables. Although, they are still better for you, fresh.
If you want any other tips, look for my articles in the next few years. Just kidding. Well, I hope not. We will see where God takes me in life. I learned long a go that we can make many plans, but God's plan and purpose will always prevail.
Enjoy a wonderful Sunday and lavish in God's relentless love.
