Fitness is most often equated with exercise. But it’s so important that when striving for overall health, we look at not only the body but the mind and spirit as well.
I like to think of this as a wheel with three spokes. One spoke represents the body, one the mind and the other spirit. When one spoke is broken or missing, everything is thrown off balance.
Body is the part where we focus on exercise and eating right. The type of exercise and eating plan will be different for each person. It’s going to depend on where you live, economics, accessibility, family dynamics and so much more.
Discovering a plan that works right is a unique journey we must all take. It is likely going to include ups and downs, setbacks and victories. You may need to make drastic changes over a period of time or small tweaks.
Mind is where we exercise the brain but we also allow time for rest. The mind needs both.
It needs to be fed in order to grow intellectually. But it also needs to unplug from the world. This is where activities such as skills training, educational courses, crossword puzzles, naps, sleep and moments of solitude come in.
Spirit is the part of our self that connects to something greater. For me personally it is God. For others it might be another entity.
I find it rejuvenating to read the Bible and pray. When I incorporate that into my daily life, it balances things.
Whenever I neglect any part of the wheel—the body, mind or spirit—I get off kilter. I may become easily tired or irritated. Frustration, anger and sadness are other consequences suffered.
I’m coming to realize that fitness is so much more than finding time to squeeze in some exercise for the day. It’s addressing all aspects of who I am and striving to be the healthiest I can be.