For we walk by faith, not by sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7
It is a given that to have faith we must walk. Why were they walking? In the Biblical days they walked everywhere they went. They didn’t have cars or even bicycles. Only the wealthy and high ranking soldiers rode horses. Mainly they walked. They didn’t have to be reminded to move their body. Walking was a physical necessity to get anywhere, to get food, to go to work or spread the gospel. They walked so much that scripture is filled with metaphors about walking as you saw in the verses listed above.
With the convenience of the modern life two opposing problems arise. First, most American’s enjoy a sedentary life style. In other words many jobs do not require much physical exertion. Second, these desk type jobs are stressful. The world around us is stressful. The worst of two worlds, inactivity combined with stress.
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise”
Proverb 13:20
Plus our recreation is also sedentary and could be stressful. We no longer run and play, spend time outside but so many play video games, watch TV or internet shows, and are otherwise occupied by non-motion activities.
What to do about all this? We interject some cardio into our day. Walking is the best, easiest place to start and is not bad to stay walking. It is a cardio exercise we can do without any equipment. All we need is a good pair of sneakers and you off.
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16
Experts say we need to walk at least 30 minutes a day to relieve the stress and give your body a chance to circulate, digest and all the other things that the body needs to do during and after exercise. You will find that your digestion is better. You have an easier time in the bathroom and on a more regular basis. You will most definitively feel happier and more alert. You will even sleep better when you get some exercise.
This doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. Take a walk around your neighborhood. Take a hike on a mountain trail or city park. If you live in the country walk down a dirt road nearby or walk your property. Use your 30 minutes of walking to explore every trail or park in your area.
For wintery or rainy days a wonderful investment is a treadmill, elliptical machine, NordicTrack or a stationary bike. You can get great deals buying them second hand. You can watch your favorite show or listen to music and books on audio while getting your steps in. Set your timer for 30 minutes. If you want to lose weight this is a great start but it isn’t about losing weight. It is about being healthy and feeling great!
If you are a social person, invite a friend. They will benefit as well. If you are not this is a time to get some blissful alone time. Customize it, make it fun. It will change your life.
Here is the thing. You must do it. In the mood or not, just do it. Walk every day for 30 days. I often hear people say they go to the gym 3 times a week or 5 times if they want to be impressive. But our heart and our digestion do not work on the 40 hour work week. They are 7/24. We need to move our bodies every day.
Set a goal to walk for 30 minutes every day for 60 days. You make it to that and you will have formed a habit. You feel a lot better and wil be healthier.
Walking is essential for your health. Some think that they must run or do something really aggressive to exercise. But the truth is if we just walk for ½ hour a day we get so many health benefits.
For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.”
Ephesians 5:8 ESV
Walking more than five miles a week increases brain mass and function according to the Atlantic Magazine article in issue October 15, 2014. (A typical 30 minute walk will give you at least 1.5 miles. Weekly you will clock in 10.5 miles!) What are you going to do with all that extra brain mass?
It is common knowledge that taking a walk increases mood, makes you feel better, helps digestion, improves circulation and countless other benefits.
Getting your heart rate up for 20 minutes a day is essential for your heart health.
If you have been sedentary for a long period of time, take it slow. Walk around your yard then then after a few days of that walk to the end of the block. Eventually make it around the neighborhood. Walk for about 30 minutes a day. You will feel so much better.
Make it fun. Invite a friend or relative to chat with on your walk. If you prefer to go it alone listen to music or a pod cast. You can kill two birds with one stone and listen to the Bible on headphones while you walk.
Maybe you have a stationary bike. That works well when it is bad weather outside. But make it a point to get outside a few times a week to soak up your vitamin D. This staves off depression and makes you feel good physically and happy.
Hopefully you are convinced and motivated to begin walking every day. Remember; don’t try to do too much. Just walk for a half hour a day and your good. So let’s get off the internet now, lace up those sneakers and make some tracks!
