One of the things that I have learned through the years is that it pays to stay healthy. The idea of exercising is more and more popular these days with gyms opening around towns on a regular basis. Let me clarify something at the beginning: there is a big difference between the idea of exercising and actually doing the exercising. That should go without saying, but gyms across the nation make millions from selling membership to people who rarely, if ever, go to put in the sweat work. That is one reason that we have our exercise equipment at home. I just walk to the basement 4 times a week and get to work.

You could say that it is common knowledge that it is good to exercise. And, again, we would agree with that, but it doesn’t mean that most people actually do it. I’m reading a book entitled Outlive: the Science and Art of Longevity, by Peter Attia, MD. The book is filled with the results of years of research and reasons why it is important to get healthy and stay healthy. His reason for writing the book is to teach us not just to how to live longer but also how to have a better life while we live longer. Interesting fact: did you know that flossing is an important element of overall health? Not just teeth and gums (You can find that on page 203).

My purpose here is not to promote the book although it is beneficial. Remember that this series is about things I’ve learned along the way. The benefits of exercising is one of those things. I have been lifting weights and running since high school and college. There are obvious benefits like building muscle and adding strength but the unseen benefits may be more valuable. The benefits include a stronger heart and better circulation. But it goes even deeper than that into the unseen. There are also emotional and mental benefits from staying healthy.

It should be easy to see that being healthy and strong gives us the opportunity for a better outlook on life. You could say it this way: Life is better when we feel better. This goes back to Dr. Attia’s thesis: don’t just live longer; enjoy the life you are living while living longer. It is important that we exercise with care. If you’ve never lifted weights, don’t dive in to trying to bench press your body weight! And always begin an exercise regimen under the care of your primary care physician.

One of the hardest things about staying healthy is nutrition. In other words, are we eating healthy? I suppose that this will vary from one person to the next because some people eat meat, others don’t. Some swear by juicing while others avoid it. Be aware that staying healthy goes beyond just exercising. Nutritional health is important, as are emotional, mental and spiritual health.

But don’t let warnings and fears stop you. Getting healthy and staying healthy can begin at any age. Start slow and build momentum. Will you have sore muscles? No doubt. Will it require self-discipline? Absolutely. Is there a payoff once you’ve gotten into a routine? Yes. You can see muscles beginning to be toned and defined. You should notice greater endurance. It can become easier to walk up the stairs and pick up the grandchildren. That makes it worthwhile right there!

One more thing: lots of people, lacking the initiative to get started, have found that it helps to have a partner. This could be your spouse or a friend, someone with whom there can be mutual encouragement and accountability.

Staying healthy has its own rewards. I’ve learned this. You can, too.

Chuck Phillips

Life Choices Christian Counseling,LLC

Licensed Christian Pastoral Counselor, N.C.C.A.

Board Certified Professional Life Coach, I.B.C.C.

LifeChoicesCLC.Com LifeChoicesCLC@gmail.com

573-280-5093