So, after 40 lessons, here we are at the end of the five phases.
You're probably thinking, "What should happen now?"
First off, remember that it's a process to change lifestyle. Generally people do better with incremental changes rather than wholesale change. If you haven't already, try doing some little things. Remember that everyone has a different starting point. Take some time today, or tomorrow, to make an honest assessment of your health and see where your greatest needs are. If you haven't done the goal exercise, where you write down your goals in each of the five areas, I encourage you to stop right now and do it. This is a very valuable step in keeping your attention where you see your needs.
Below I've included a brief overview of the five phases of The Daniel Plan, as well as some valuable resources for each area:
FAITH: Spiritual health gives you a foundation for building habits and perspectives for building health in any area. Health comes from recognizing and using God's power in your life and treating your body and mind with the care He intended.
FOOD: We need to get back n the kitchen and enjoy real, fresh, whole food. The rule of thumb is "If it was grown on a plant, eat it. If it was made in a plant, leave it alone." Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds, eggs, chicken, fish, naturally raised meats and spices.
FITNESS: To have a fit, healthy, energetic life we need to exercise. Most of us have hectic schedules and as such, we are going to need to schedule time for fitness in order for it to happen. The American College of Sports Medicine has discovered that moving your body on a regular basis impacts your physical, intellectual, emotional, social, financial and spiritual health.
FOCUS: Mental health is vital for your overall health. Body, mind and spirit work together. Negative thoughts, or lack of positive thoughts can consume you. Whatever gets the most of your mind's attention will direct other areas of your life. Ask yourself: what is my motivation to stay the course? The two most important words when it comes to your health: then what? As in, "if I keep on this course of eating or activity level for the next five years: then what?"
FRIENDS: When it comes to your health everybody could use a buddy. We often see people struggle when they are trying to make a lifestyle change and their spouse or family is not on board. Find someone, or better yet a group, where you have accountability, encouragement, motivation and prayer partners.
In closing, remember that in undertaking this course of action not everything will be easy but "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Make it a point to be fulfilling your purpose to the best of your abilities every day.
Feel free to continue to reach out to me if you feel so called.
Today's Bible verse:
“...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Healthy blessings!
-Noel