Essays

Why Working Out Works

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I can’t recall a time when I finished a workout and didn’t feel mentally refreshed afterward.  This is one of the few predictable universal truths on earth.

Taking care of your body goes beyond just looking good or feeling healthy—it’s about tapping into your full potential and living a life filled with purpose. Your body is an incredible gift, and maintaining it is key to achieving everything you set out to do. Imagine it as the vehicle that carries your mind and soul on your life’s journey. When you take care of this vehicle, you’re setting yourself up to reach amazing destinations and accomplish all the dreams you have.  And when you do this, you often reach dreams that were higher than you even thought possible. 

Working out isn’t just about building muscle or losing weight. It’s about challenging yourself, pushing your limits, and proving to yourself that you can overcome obstacles. When you exercise, you’re not just changing your body—you’re changing your mind. You’re building discipline, resilience, and grit.

Eating right is equally important. Your body needs proper fuel to function at its best. When you eat well, you’re giving your brain the nutrients it needs to think clearly, solve problems, and be creative. You’re also showing respect for the temple God has given you.

But taking care of your body goes beyond the physical. Your mind needs exercise too. You need to feed it with knowledge, challenge it with new ideas, and apply what you learn. Reading, studying, and continuous learning aren’t just academic exercises—they’re ways to expand your understanding of the world and your place in it.

Remember, your mind can’t reach its full potential unless your body does. Physical exercise increases blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function. It reduces stress and anxiety, boosts your mood, and gives you the energy you need for mental and spiritual pursuits.

When you neglect your body or your mind, you’re essentially putting a governor on your potential. You’re saying, “This is good enough.” But is it really? Is that what God put you on this earth for—to be “good enough”?

Work out regularly, even (especially) when you don’t feel like it. Eat foods that nourish your body, not just satisfy cravings. Read books that challenge your thinking. Learn new skills. Apply what you learn. Just learning and not applying it to your work, life and relationships is kind of a waste of brain space.  Lots of people get this wrong.  Ever see some super smart people who can’t get out of their own way? The smart idiots. 

Get enough sleep to allow your body and mind to recharge.  It won’t always be easy. There will be days when you want to skip the gym, eat junk food, and binge-watch TV. But those are the days when it’s most important to stick to your commitment.

Remember, taking care of your body and mind isn’t just about self-improvement. It’s about stewardship. It’s about honoring the gift God gave you and using it to its fullest potential.

You have a purpose on this earth. Don’t let poor health or a neglected mind hold you back from fulfilling it. Take care of yourself—body, mind, and soul—and watch as doors open, opportunities arise, and your impact grows beyond what you ever thought possible.

With love and faith in your potential,

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