I must admit that I don’t like to exercise. While I always feel much better when I am done I rarely ever put on my running shoes with a sense of exhilaration or enthusiasm.

In fact, more often than not I find really good excuses that keep me from sweating on most days. It’s too hot! Too cold! Too dry! Too wet! No matter the day I always have to battle against the excuses!

Even more, my life is busy, my demands are high and my ministry has needs that need to be met. Like it or not exercising is often number 9 or 10 on my list of priorities.

However, with all of that said I have learned that exercise is valuable not only for my physical health but my emotional and spiritual health as well.

If you and I want to be wholistically healthy leaders we need to learn to include exercise in our weekly routines.

Here are a few thoughts to ponder:

1) Exercise has many mental benefits

  • Stress reduction: One of the most common mental benefits of exercise is stress relief. Exercise literally releases special chemicals in your brain that can moderate the brains’ response to stress. [1]
  • Anxiety alleviation: Which is better at relieving anxiety — a warm bubble bath or a 20-minute jog? You might be surprised at the answer. While the bath is great the exercise has proven to release chemicals that can help people with anxiety disorders calm down. [1]
  • Brain boost: studies have shown that cardiovascular exercise can create new brain cells and improve brain performance. [1]

We could go on and on with more examples but the point to understand here is that exercise is great for your mind and mental state.

2) Exercise can help your work performance

  • Creativity increase: A brisk walk or run has shown to increase creativity for up to two hours afterwards! [1]
  • Productivity surge: Research shows that workers who take time for exercise on a regular basis are more productive and have more energy than their more deskbound peers. [1]
  • Memory improvement: Regular physical activity has been shown to boost memory and the capacity to learn new things. [1]

3) Exercise grows discipline

Discipline leads to more discipline. When you are disciplined in one area of your life, it transfers to other areas of your life as well — including the process of spiritual growth and development. [2]

4) Exercise forces rest

A vigorous exercise routine will make you tired by the end of the day. (The good kind of tired). When you do settle down to sleep for the night you will rest better. Studies have shown that for some people a moderate workout can have the same effect as a sleeping pill! [1]

5) Exercise is about stewardship

Just as you are called to be a good manager of your money (Malachi 3:10), your time (Ephesians 5:15-16), and your gifts (Romans 12:6-8), God also calls you to be a good steward with your body. First Corinthians 6:19-20 says: “Don’t you know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God in your body.” [3]

In conclusion, taking care of yourself also puts you in a better position to take care of those in your ministry, which is how Jesus said was the way to show your love for Him (John 21:15-17).

I know that many of you are super busy, distracted and carrying a big burden of stress. I hope you will find time to incorporate exercise into your weekly routine.

Finally, here are few tips to keep in mind

1) Start small

Begin your exercise routine with modest expectations. Simply set aside 15 or 20 minutes to walk or run and increase as necessary.

2) Find a friend to keep you accountable

There is something about having a little accountability that can make you follow through. Don’t be ashamed in asking a friend or family member to help you prioritize and schedule your exercise. Maybe ask them to join you??

3) Be encouraged and not discouraged

So many people give up on their health plan after they miss a workout of two. Don’t do that! If you miss, rededicate yourself and consider tomorrow a new day.

Be encouraged that each step you take towards a healthy exercise plan is a step towards greater wholistic health!

Growth Point:

Exercise is a key component to wholistic health

Scripture Point:

Reflect on 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

Action Point:

Make a commitment this week to exercise at least 2-3 times. This could be by walking, running, riding a bike or using an exercise machine. Whatever works for you. Write it down, ask for accountability and make it a priority!

 

[1] http://greatist.com/fitness/13-awesome-mental-health-benefits-exercise

[2] http://www.lifeway.com/Article/can-a-healthy-lifestyle-make-you-a-better-leader

http://www.lifeway.com/pastors/2014/01/07/5-ways-physical-training-helps-with-my-spiritual-training/