Today, as I write, is Ash Wednesday. For some Christian denominations, including mine, which is Anglican, it is the start of the Lenten season. Lent is religious observance of the six weeks before Easter as a way to prepare through prayer, sacrifice and, now-a-days, doing things to better ourselves and others.
I have decided this Lent to give up Starbucks, control my salty language, and practice more patience with my family, friends and co-workers. Whether you practice Lent or not, is a personal decision, but if you do, here is an idea. Since the Bible states in 1 Corinthians that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, why not take the six weeks of Lent to work on your temple?
Here are some healthy goals to work towards during your Lenten observance that will jumpstart you for the rest of the spring:
— Clean up your diet: Cut out alcohol, sweets, sodas. Your body will adjust to not having all that sugar and after the six weeks you will not crave it near as much.
— Add some new exercises: Our bodies get used to doing the same things over and over again. Mix it up by adding in some of the following: Burpees, air-squats, push-ups.
— Get to the CORE: If you are not doing much for your core — abdominals and lower back — put some core exercises into your day. Start every morning with sit-ups and/or planks. Add more repetitions each day.
— Try yoga: Yoga is a great way to increase flexibility while helping you relax, breathe and meditate. Find an online version or try out a class. Who knows, you might just stick with it after Easter.
— Sign up and train for a fitness event: Find a race or walk that is six weeks or so out and sign yourself up. Despite it only being a little over three weeks away, might I suggest the Rhumba on the Lumber 5K on March 2? It is a fun race and there is some healthy Lenten-worthy chili available at the end. Registration forms can be found online at Robesonroadrunners.com
— Do something for others: Nothing helps us feel better than when we do something nice for others. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, visit a shut-in or help a neighbor with some yard work. It will make them feel better as well.
Whether or not you practice Lent, you can still use the six weeks leading up to Easter to make some healthy changes for both your physical and mental health.
