Food for Thought: August 24th

Exercise

We are made to be physically active. When we were loaded down with food and fat, we probably moved around as little as possible. Now that we eat for health, we have the necessary energy to exercise our bodies.

Taking the stairs rather than the elevator, walking instead of riding, a few simple calisthenics when we need a break from work, a jump rope - there are many ways to begin an exercise program in easy stages. We do not need to train to become Olympic athletes, but we do need to keep our bodies in good working order.

Each day we also need mental, emotional, and spiritual exercise. Reading something worthwhile, refraining from criticism, performing a service for someone anonymously, taking time for prayer and meditation --these are actions which develop our minds, hearts, and spirits. Our growth in the program depends on overcoming resistance and inertia each day and taking concrete steps to improvement.

By Your power, may I overcome laziness.

****************************************************************

When I first began to exercise, I'd jog for 2 minutes.........up & down the hardwood hallway in my house! After 2 minutes, I was dripping with sweat & physically exhausted.  But it was yet another baby step in my journey to find ME lurking under all that fat!!

Little by little, and very S L O W L Y, I added to my exercise routine as my body became a bit more cooperative.  I never pushed myself; I stayed aware of the extreme nature of my disease, and the excuses I'd make if I DID exercise too much.  I'd wind up rationalizing the 'need' to eat more calories if I expended 'too many'............know what I mean?

Incorporating movement into my daily life was a blessing to me, and still is. I take the stairs at work instead of the elevator, every single day. I walk instead of ride, and park far away from the entrance of the places I go. I have a routine I follow in the evenings, which keeps me physically fit but not over-worked.

I keep myself mentally, emotionally & spiritually fit by reading books that help me develop my spirituality which, in turn, helps me know mySELF a whole lot better.  I spend time reaching out to others which helps ME keep MY program intact. I always find time for prayer and meditation which helps me develop my relationship with God.

For today, I will fight my urge to be lazy, if it should pop up, and I will stick to my normal routine instead.

Structure prevents chaos.  For today, I am grateful for the structure in my life!