Take Care of Your Emotions and Mind

Last night I went to the gym and worked out. After a day at the computer my body ached for some stretching and exercise. In the morning, I dug into some Scripture. In both cases I was TAKING CARE OF MYSELF.

In addition to taking care of our spiritual and physical needs, valuing God's gift of life means taking care of our emotions and intellect. Here's some suggestions for doing this:

EMOTIONAL HEALTH:

Analyze just how much you can cope with and learn to say 'NO' before you stress out.

Decide: I will make it a matter of prayer before agreeing to another commitment. Offer to do part of a job if you really want to be involved.

Think through your priorities and let them guide you when deciding what to do.

If you're struggling with tears, depression, fears, or wanting to withdraw, recognize you need help. If you're not ashamed to visit a doctor or dentist, why feel you can fix emotional pain or damage without any help? It doesn't make sense and robs you of the joy and support God wants for you.

INTELLECTUAL HEALTH

God gave us minds to think and learn. Honoring His gift of life includes continuing to stretch our intellect by feeding it on more than television sit-coms! What book are you currently reading that is helping you grow spiritually or personally? When did you last take time to read something helpful?

Read in snatches if you don't have much time. Carry a book with you wherever you go and dig in as you wait (but not at red traffic lights!).

When did you last take a class? Check with your church, local community college, library, or newspaper--and the web, of course. Is there a skill you'd like to develop? Start researching and move forward one step at a time.

Never think you're too old to keep learning--as I said in my best-seller: I'm Too Young to be This Old, don't climb into your coffin until it's your time! In the meantime, keep stretching, informing, and using those grey-cells that God blessed you with.

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If you would like some over the phone or email spiritual support or coaching, contact me at: poppy@poppysmith.com To check out my motivational book for women, plus other resources, visit: www.poppysmith.com