Let’s Walk for Spiritual Health

“Come walk with me, my child.” The quiet whisper in my spirit led me to put on my shoes and open the door.

But Lord, it’s raining.

“So? Use your umbrella.”

So I went, and delighted again in the majestic beauty God has created. As I walked and praised him, I began to feel rejuvenated. As I thanked him, I regained the confidence He is in control. My mind became more clear and I was able to work more efficiently.

God is holistic. He wants us to be healthy in our bodies, souls, and spirits. Walking can contribute to all three of these. I’ve long been aware walking is good for physical health. As I’ve grown older, I realize more and more that exercise is essential. If I neglect my daily exercise, I become stiff and sore and sluggish.

I bought a pedometer a few years ago after my doctor suggested walking 10,000 steps a day to prevent osteoporosis. This is a goal I haven’t reached very often. My work of writing keeps me sitting a lot, as does my pleasure of reading. Usually it’s a struggle to reach my personal goal of 6000 steps a day. However, making the effort seemed to help. My bone density is now in normal range. So is my blood sugar.

I walk a favorite route outside once or twice a day (about 1 1/2 miles = 3080 steps) when weather permits. Especially in the spring and summer, this is enjoyable because the trees and grass are lush and green and flowers blooming. It is easy on these days to praise my Creator for all the beauty. It’s more difficult in the winter, but we have an indoor track available at the old hospital. Sometimes I read while walking, or just talk to God.

The best walks are devotional in nature. I think of the old song, “And he walks with me and he talks with me and he tells me I am his own.” I’m greatful to know God is with me. As I walk, I pray, or sing, or quote scripture. This is good for my spiritual health.

I believe God is holistic. He wants us to be healthy in our bodies, souls, and spirits. Walking can contribute to all three of these.

Yesterday, while walking, I meditated on this poem:

Healing Elements

A soft, gentle breeze caresses my skin,

Uplifting my spirits, it soothes me within.

I gaze at the sunset, with awe contemplate

the marvelous beauty my God did create.

Music is healing, music gives wings

To soar above problems this troubled earth brings.

Lord, You sent the music,

You give the sunsets,

You are the breeze to my soul.

By Judith Vander Wege