An intimate connection between mental and physical activity exists. At some point a healthy person enters the physical realm. As the saying goes, “You cannot plow a field by turning it over in your mind.”

Upon arriving at her sixth decade of life, Hulda Crooks decided to become serious about physical activity. She was overweight and out of shape, so much so that the only exercise she could manage was to walk around her yard. Day by day she began to increase the distance. Soon she could make it around her block, and then her neighborhood.

At the age of 66, she climbed Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48 United States (14,494 feet). By 90, she had climbed it annually 22 times (missing twice because of bad weather) and was still going strong. She was the oldest person to reach the summit. To top it off, she later climbed Mt. Fuji in Japan. A fitness evaluation showed she had the cardiovascular fitness level of a person at least 30 years younger. 

“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.” ~ Genesis 2:7

God's breath gave life, including spiritual, mental, and physical life. These parts are inseparable and fully dependent on one another. Yet some believe that physical life is somehow flawed and inferior to other realms. This line of thinking originated with the Greeks, who taught the spiritual realm was far superior to the physical. 

Richard J. Foster comments, “I do not have a spirit: I am a spirit. Likewise, I do not have a body: I am a body.” The spirit spoken of in the Bible is God's indwelling Spirit.

“Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19,20

Physical activity helps the body function optimally, reduces stress, and enables us to better hear the voice of God. Activity helps the brain to think clearly and comprehend spiritual truths. Beleive it or not, physical fitness can enhance our spiritual walk. 

It's never too late to get started with physical activity. You just have to take it one step at a time. You can do it. If you need help, or are looking for creative ways to improve your health, our Lifestyle Program will guide you every step of the way.