Light is Vital
Because our entire being is interwoven, our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual states can affect one another. Therefore, it is important for us to pay attention to our bodies, moods and thought processes daily to see if there is something we need to course correct.
A little while after starting my remote job, I realized that I was becoming more lethargic. It didn’t matter how long I would sleep; I would always be tired. I did some research and realized that a deficiency in B12 could be the culprit. So, I bought some vitamins. They helped some but not completely. I did more research and found an article that said lack of sunlight could be the cause of tiredness. I started opening my blinds, using natural light instead of depending solely on artificial light and my energy improved!
Even during COVID, physicians encouraged us to go outside and get sunlight. Sunlight is vital to our bodies and self-care. According to health professionals, sunlight can help with the production of Vitamin D, prevent diseases, promote good mental health and more.
Whether it’s for a quick walk to the dumpster to take the trash out, sitting outside to enjoy the sounds of nature or opening the blinds in your house or room, make sure you are incorporating God’s light into your daily routine.
Another example of how listening to my body has proven beneficial is with my workout cravings. Years ago, I noticed after my workouts, I would crave chocolate milk. One of my coworkers thought it was weird, but I couldn’t explain it. Years later, when my coworker’s son started playing football, she learned from her son’s coach that chocolate milk was beneficial for muscle recovery. It explained how my workout partner would be in pain days after a workout, but I would be fine.
As we continue to show ourselves love, let’s also learn to listen to our bodies and what it needs. If we pay attention, we can learn how to better treat ourselves. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) says: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
Loving ourselves means listening to our bodies too.
