Here young adults share their patterns of healthy living based on
teachings from the Word of Wisdom, from
other scriptures, and from our latter-day prophets. How have these teachings
blessed your life? These young adults bear testimony that as we learn and honor
these teachings for healthy living, we will receive the promised blessings.
Establishing Good
Sleeping Habits
In today’s world, addictive substances are sometimes viewed as a
way to deal with pressures and stresses. In addition, many drink coffee because
they feel they need extra energy. Because my mother taught me the importance of
good sleeping habits, I know that these additional substances aren’t necessary;
adequate rest is a much more effective solution (see D&C 88:124). When I
get a good night’s sleep, I have more energy for the day. I am better able to
handle the stresses of life, my mind enjoys increased clarity, and I am better
able to work under pressure.
Anthony Castillo, Florida, USA
Enjoying Mountain Biking
Being healthy and living the Word of Wisdom (see D&C 89) are not
merely about staying away from coffee, tea, tobacco, alcohol, and harmful drugs;
good health is also about fueling my body with good things and wisely engaging
in activities that will enable me to function optimally. I am passionate about
mountain biking. By maintaining my physical and spiritual health, I can pursue
my passion and know that I will be blessed with strength and endurance.
Brock Dunlap, Texas, USA
Gardening
We learn from the scriptures that the soul has two parts: body and
spirit (see D&C 88:15).
Gardening is a healthy hobby that nourishes both. It’s hard work; it would be
so much easier to run to the store to pick up my veggies and herbs. However,
the benefits of gardening go far beyond having access to healthy food. I love
the moments of focused meditation that come along with working in a garden. It
is a time that I can clear my mind of distractions and focus on the task at
hand. Also, gardening is a way for me to gain momentum for living a healthy
lifestyle. When I garden, I find that I’m more aware of what I’m eating
throughout the day and that I’m more inclined to exercise. It is truly
energizing. And when I treat my body well, my spirit benefits also. I feel
closer to Heavenly Father and know that I’m becoming the soul he wants me to
be.
Laura Gauthier, Illinois, USA
Drinking Green Smoothies
For a long time it was difficult for me to get any fruits and
vegetables into my diet because of some serious food allergies. I could hardly
eat more than four blueberries at a time without feeling ill. When I discovered
green smoothies, everything changed. At first my body struggled, but over time
my allergies diminished substantially and I became full of energy. I love
creating new smoothies, and I try to put the most nutrient-dense and colorful
fruits and vegetables into them: kale, Swiss chard, spinach, lime, peaches,
mango, strawberries, coconut, and so on. I am grateful for the Word of Wisdom
and for the blessings I’ve received as I’ve incorporated its principles into my
life.
Tara Walker, Idaho, USA
Seeking to Reach My
Potential
Being diligent in both exercising and eating right has helped me
realize how blessed I am to have a healthy body and how important it is to take
care of it. I want to be able to live a long, healthy life. I want to be in the
best physical, mental, and spiritual condition I can be for as long as possible
so I can reach my full potential on earth. I think that is one of the reasons
why our Heavenly Father gave us teachings in the scriptures and from living
prophets about how to stay healthy—so we will be able to do what we came to
earth to do and to carry out His will.
Allyson Macy, Utah, USA
Exercising Often
For me, exercise is one of the best ways to rejuvenate my body and
my mind. When I get carried away thinking about problems and questions that I
have, it is exercise that helps me see things more clearly. I don’t always run
or lift weights; sometimes I just go for a walk. It’s interesting that after
exerting energy to exercise, I always have more energy and feel more alert.
When I get in a routine and exercise regularly, I have a happier outlook on
life. I know that the Lord has given us a stewardship over our bodies. Exercise
is one way that we can show Him that we are grateful for the blessing of a
mortal body.
Ryan Brown, Michigan, USA
Appreciating Both Body
and Spirit
I know that the Word of Wisdom is a true code of health for both
our spirits and our bodies. As I have learned more about how to eat well,
exercise, and seek balance in other aspects of my life, I have gained a deeper
understanding of the sacred relationship between our bodies and our spirits. I
have learned to respect my mortal body and be grateful for it, no matter what
is going on in my life. My testimony of the importance of good health has been
reinforced through teachings in the Doctrine and Covenants and
teachings from our living prophets. I know we are blessed when we seek to
follow these teachings and live them fully.
Christine Baird, Texas, USA
Focusing on the Blessings
My favorite blessing promised in the Word of Wisdom is that we can
“find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures” (D&C 89:19). For a
long time, this was a very abstract phrase to me. But now I understand that
this promise includes improved self-discipline and self-control. We gain
greater power to exercise our agency because our minds are clearer, our bodies
are stronger, and our hearts are at peace. As I live the Word of Wisdom and
maintain a healthy lifestyle, I find that the Lord more readily answers my
prayers for health, peace, and joy.
Linda Flores, Washington, D.C., USA
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