The Eight Laws of Good Health

The Eight Laws of Good Health


“Gods Plan”



Law No. 1: Godly Trust

Trust in God is the first law of health and the most important. Seek Him each day, preferably as the first thing you do. Find strength and direction for your day and your life in His Word. Trust Him to do what He says He will. Every principle of the 8 Laws of Health is a part of God’s plan. Each step of the process gives you a new opportunity to rely on His promises and see them proven in your own life.



Law No. 2: Open Air

Air is an often overlooked part of the 8 Laws of Health. It is important to breathe richly and deeply, allowing the stress of life to be dissipated by the healing powers of oxygen. Make an effort to be in places where the air is pure, and be sure your home is clean and well managed so that you are not breathing stale air. Open your windows. Try to be less dependent on “manufactured air” from air conditioners and enclosed buildings. But most importantly, breathe deeply!



Law No. 3: Daily Exercise

Exercise is the third element of God’s plan. An exercise program requires consistency more than expertise. If you’ve not exercised before, begin with simple steps: park further from the entrance and walk the extra distance. Find a friend and take up a sport. Before long, you will find that in the course of daily life, you’re fulfilling the recommended aerobic requirement of four sessions weekly. Weight training is also of benefit, but be sure to seek proper training. When you exercise you will notice a more measured heart rate, better breathing, lowered blood pressure, greater energy, a trimmer physique, and a better emotional outlook on life.



Law No. 4: Sunshine

Sunlight provides not only a brighter perspective on life, but is a key component of the 8 Laws of Health. Spend time outdoors each day, perhaps as part of a walking routine or visits to neighbors. If you are prone to depression or melancholy, sunlight can be a great antidote. In addition, moderate exposure to sunlight strengthens skin tone, encourages production of Vitamin D, and purifies your blood. (*Please remember something very important. As you pay attention to your diet, the fresh fruits and vegetables that you eat also helps your body in relation to the amount of sunlight that your body receives.) Be wise and use a sunscreen when extended exposure is likely, but be sure to go outside for 20 minutes each day.



Law No. 5: Proper Rest

Rest is an essential, yet often overlooked, component of God’s plan. In fact, many of us don’t rest until we are forced to. You have been created for about 16 hours of activity each day and 8 hours of sleep. Those 16 hours should not be packed full of work related activity, and you must be sure to protect those 8 hours of sleep so you can truly rest. Avoid drinking stimulants that trick your body into believing you don’t need rest. Plus, be sure to incorporate a weekly day of rest, a long weekend once a month, and an annual vacation. You will also find rest in relaxation with friends and family, a new hobby, sports, exercise, and daily spiritual devotion.



Law No. 6: Lots of Water

Water is fundamental to good health. We all know that our bodies have a chemical component called H2O. But did you know that you have to refresh your body with water everyday? Our present society actually deprives you of that replenishment by keeping you too busy and by offering unacceptable substitutes. Drink a minimum of eight 8 ounce glasses of water each day, more if you exercise or find yourself under significant stress.



Law No. 7: Always Be Temperate

Temperance calls us to temper and tame our desires with a balanced approach to God’s gifts. That is why it is part of the 8 laws of health. Temperance means moderate use of that which is good, and abstinence from all that which is harmful. Ask yourself, “Does my behavior honor God?” If so, give Him the glory and give the activity your best. If God would not be honored, why even waste your time?



Law No. 8: Nutrition

Proper nutrition completes God’s plan. Even though we would rather not acknowledge it, we usually have a sense of what is good for us to eat and what is not. The basic rule is balance- be selective with sugars and generous with vegetables. Find inspiration and flavor in foods that remind you of God’s provision: fruits, nuts, grains, and vegetables. Avoid processed foods! If you would like specific advice on a nutritional program best for your lifestyle, seek a counselor to guide you.