At the start of every year gyms and fitness centers the world over see an epic increase in the number of folks who feel that “now is the time” to get fit and make lifestyle changes. Regular gym folk are simultaneously unnerved and entertained by the fact that their safe havens have been invaded and overrun by born again holistic, healthy, holy rollers who have decided that they too will overcome the battle of the bulge. The ramp up to the new year is encouraged advertisers as well. There are generous discounts offered for new memberships and the commercial overload is unspeakable at times. It’s a booming business for many personal trainers, fitness instructors, and others but I rarely see balance.
Some people stick it out and do the work to get healthy. They change their diets, they work out regularly, and they not only reach, but they maintain their fitness goals. They go on to inspire others to do the same. On the other end of the spectrum are those who start out full of positive energy; they’re rare and ready to go. Countertops are lined with meal prep containers, blenders and juicers remain at the ready, and accountability partners are on standby. However, somewhere down the line, the zeal for liberation fades and by the end of January, going into the start of February, all is lost and just about forgotten. Regular routines are resumed, and nothing has really changed. Again, I rarely see balance.
I happen to believe that we forget that there’s more to our overall health than just the outer appearance of a slim and trim figure or a lower blood pressure. We forget to include other aspects of health and wellness. Let’s face it, even the healthiest people commit suicide. Some of the most physically fit individuals aren’t happy and regularly struggle with emotional imbalance. There are those who believe in God or some other deity, but the other areas go lacking. Real life begins to take hold and suddenly there’s no time for the gym. There’s no time for prayer and/or meditation. Dinner is whatever happens to whichever establishment has the shortest drive thru line.
Your spouse and/or children need you. Your job needs you. Perhaps, you’re heavily active in ministry. At the end of the day, there’s no time for you to take care of yourself. Which begs the question, how can balance be achieved? How do we get to the place where the mind, body, and soul are equally healthy? Is there a perfect formula or method that one must follow? Or is settling for functional chaos and mere survival the only option?
This month we’ll be tackling health and wellness but from a holistic perspective. We want to talk about mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of a healthy lifestyle. We’ll be discussing diets, workout regimens, and the importance of balance. This is a very exciting time for all involved. Let’s achieve balance together! I do hope you’ll join us.
Until next time…
Moriya