Prior to blogging about wellness, I never realized how many health principles are in the Bible, and how they overlap with today’s scientific recommendations and best practices. It’s truly amazing!
10 health practices that have stood the test of time:
Health=mind + body: The very definition of holistic health—that each person is made up of mind, body, soul and spirit—is biblical. Science is continually studying and confirming the interconnectedness of our physical and mental health. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)
Sleep is essential! It’s no wonder that it’s literally one of the ten commandments. The more research I do, the more I’m convinced that rest is the most important aspect of health (as it impacts how we perform and how our body operates). (Exodus 34:21)
Fasting is healthy. Intermittent fasting has countless physical and mental benefits. The science is continually validating this timeless best practice. (Luke 18:12)
Don’t worry. Following this biblical instruction reminds us to live in the present. Taking it one day at a time (and not worrying about tomorrow) is a remedy to combat the unhealthy and negative effects of anxiety. (Matthew 6:34)
Practice gratefulness. Being thankful for what we have is the antidote to stress and allows us to be content with what we have. The Bible advises rejoicing and being thankful in all circumstances. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Serve and love others. Putting others first (e.g., volunteering, serving those in need, and getting the focus off ourselves) improves our health and well-being! Being generous and loving others are mentioned continuously throughout the gospels. (Luke 6:31)
Celebrate life. We are told to enjoy life, and that there is a time for joy and dancing. Rewarding yourself and celebrating your accomplishments results in a surge of dopamine that promotes happiness. (Ecclesiastes 3:4)
Live in community. Having close and honest relationships is another biblical practice. Not surprisingly, the places in the world where people live the longest are the most social. We were created to be in community, which inevitably affects our health and well-being. (Ecclesiastes 4:9)
Spend time in nature. We thrive in sunlight (which provides us with the essential Vitamin D) and by being in nature… your physical, mental and spiritual health will thank you. (Romans 1:20)
Live with purpose. ‘I have come so they may have life and have it to the fullest.’ Living for something more than ourselves and dreaming big is good for our souls and gives us the ‘why’ behind our health goals. (John 10:10)
I encourage you to explore what the Bible says about health and wellness, and compare it to modern medicine and scientific recommendations. It might surprise you!
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