TURNING A WALK INTO A PRAYER: I have been walking a lot this summer. My new pedometer has been a motivator with its daily challenges: climb ten flights of stairs, walk five miles, and move for 30 “very active” minutes. These goals have made me keenly aware of how sedentary my life has become. I needed to get intentional about moving my body every day. As my walks have become more frequent, I have discovered an added benefit: Walks are an excellent way to unplug and spend quality time in contemplation. I use the time to clear my head, process problems that have been bothering me, brainstorm ideas, or pray—conversing (silently) with the indwelling Spirit or listing everything for which I am grateful. Gratitude never fails to increase my sense of well-being. Through praise and gratitude, I find that I draw more and more blessings to me. Gratitude is a powerful spiritual practice. On a recent walk, I decided to bless my body with gratefulness. I started with my feet and legs, appreciating how long and far they have carried me. I’ll be 47 in a few days, so my feet have supported me for nearly five decades and carried me countless miles. As I blessed my feet, I realized I haven’t thanked them nearly enough for all their hard work. I blessed my heart and my lungs. Taking an extra moment with my lungs, I paused to consider my experience with asthma and how breathing can sometimes be uncomfortable. I blessed my lungs with deep appreciation for their vital function and continual health and healing. I continued through my gratitude body scan: my arms and hands; shoulders, neck, and head; my eyes and ears. Every bit of me was blessed as I walked, and I could feel the energy of that blessing immediately. I walked faster, sucked in my tummy, and straightened my shoulders. I felt great! Recently, Elizabeth, a reader from Pennsylvania, shared some thoughts with me about taking care of our bodies. She wrote, “Our carriers here are secondary to our inner beings and their beauty, but as they are the vehicles we’re driving … it’s desirous to make God’s vehicle shine its brightest.” I agree wholeheartedly! As we bless and care for our body vehicles, they do indeed shine bright—inside and out. If you find yourself on a summer walk, try blessing your body. I promise it will lengthen your stride and brighten your spirit! Peace and blessings to you, Laura Harvey Editor of Daily Word
Posted on: Tue, 30 Jul 2013 18:11:58 +0000