I recently started writing a nutrition piece for Minister Crystal Cochren at My Faith and Fitness blog.  Well, of course she was kind enough to reciprocate.  I know this is the third Sunday, but we were so focused on the juice fast last Sunday that I had to hold off a week on introducing Second Sunday’s with Crystal.  So here is the first segment.  Enjoy!

Staying Spiritually and Emotionally Healthy with a Busy Lifestyle

            Oftentimes, women are challenged to become or stay spiritually and emotionally healthy because our lifestyles are so busy.  We usually wear numerous hats.  We work one or more jobs, own businesses, attend college or graduate school, raise children and manage one or more households.  Many of us do not realize that our emotional and spiritual fitness suffers when we do not make the time to focus on that fitness.

Some of us think that focusing on spiritual and emotional fitness requires a significant amount of time.  It does not.  We just need to be determined to seek that fitness.  It must become a priority in our lives.  For instance, Jesus rose early in the morning and went to a solitary place to pray. (Mark 1:35)  I know that it can be difficult to find a time and space to be alone.  I encourage you to try several different techniques until you craft a method that works with your lifestyle and responsibilities.  Here are some suggestions:

• Wake up 15-20 minutes earlier than you usually do to pray, study scripture or meditate.
• Take a 10-15 minute break during your work or school day to take a walk or sit on a park bench to listen to some calming music or enjoy nature.
• Spend 5-10 minutes quietly in the car before driving and settle your spirit.  Prepare yourself for what you will encounter when you reach your destination.
• Listen to calming music while using public transportation and focus your thoughts.
• Unplug from all electronics for a few hours.
• Stay away from all social media for a day or two.
• Delegate some responsibilities to others and allow them to complete those tasks.

Be blessed as you increase your focus on your spiritual and emotional health. Remain encouraged.