by: Juliandra Durkin
We live in a sedentary world that revolves around computers, watching TV, studying at desks, working in cubicles, and eating and drinking at restaurants and coffee shops. None of these things are bad in and of themselves; some of these activities are necessary. But I would like to gently point out how generally our culture moves from one chair to the next throughout the day. Oftentimes we claim to be “too busy” or “too tired” to workout, go to the gym, run around the block, pull out a yoga mat, or get active in some way. This month of May is “National Physical Fitness and Sports Month” and what a great time to remember to take care of our physical bodies, which were given to us!
God made you Fearfully and Wonderfully. He knew you before anyone else, even your parents. He knew how tall you would grow. What color your hair would shine. The way your nose would shape and how your eyelashes would curl. He knew your skin color and if it would be dotted with freckles or a birthmark. Each is beautiful and unique to you because the Creator designed you that way. Your body is precious and is a gift.
Because our bodies and time we are given are a gift, how are we using that gift? Are we staying too busy with work, classes, social media, and TV to take 30 minutes to get our heart rate up? Are we abusing our precious selves with excuses to mindlessly sit for one more episode of our favorite shows on Netflix? Each decision we make today effects our day tomorrow. For example, if I decide to zone out tonight on Facebook, I will probably be too tired to get up when my alarm clock buzzes bright and early tomorrow. Instead of putting on my tennis shoes, I will pull the covers closer around me. Each decision I make adds and builds upon itself forming habits, that will either bring me closer to becoming the woman God calls me to be, or further away. Taking care of my body by staying active in fitness or a sport, is one responsibility that can be both healthy and fun!
Personally, I love exercise- and that means many things. Sometimes that means going for a hike, or swimming, or walking my dogs. Sometimes exercise means looking up free weight exercises on Pinterest. It means running on a treadmill and jumping on a bike for a Spin class at the gym. There are so many ways to use our bodies for His glory and have fun in the process. I know women who love to play basketball, soccer, and tennis. Lifting weights or doing plyometrics can bring on a big sweat that is both detoxifying and energizing. And popping in a workout video at home can be just as satisfying and more economical than paying for a monthly gym membership.
So, I encourage you to think about your body as a gift and brainstorm ideas that you can get physical this month of May. Maybe it’s a baby step of finding time in your schedule a few times a week to take a walk. Or maybe it’s calling up your girlfriends for a round of tennis. Once you have an idea or two, make time in your schedule and keep that personal appointment with yourself. Your body will thank you. And if you need accountability, what a great excuse to get together with friends for something besides a movie? Maybe join a community club or learn a new sport with your friends. Whatever you choose to do, think about God and thank Him for creating your legs, arms, and giving you the breath and blood that keeps you alive!
What is your favorite sport to play and physical activity?
Photo Cred: Brookyln Morgan
Juliandra Durkin is the manager for Wonderfully Made’s blog Know Your Value. She also writes at Written Jewels, a personal blog with stories and reflections on life. Juliandra has a love of nature, hiking, biking, swimming, reading, writing, culture, and especially travel. A graduate of Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA, she has degrees in Spanish Language and Communication Studies and currently lives in Pennsylvania with her family
