Intuitively, many of us know that God cares about our physical bodies.

We pray over loved ones who are struggling with chronic illness or physical ailments, and other forms of suffering. In fact, all pain is physical. Meaning, that if we did not have a physical body, we would not experience pain. Yet, we may forget to extend that same care toward ourselves in noticing how our physical bodies are doing. Just as with our emotional health, we may wait until there is a crisis, e.g., a cancer diagnosis, fibromyalgia, or psychosomatic pains, before we begin noticing and attuning to how our bodies are feeling internally. This disconnection from our bodies not only leads to dysregulation, but also hinders our ability to love others well. Emotional numbness hinders our ability to be present and have a deeper connection with others. Physical exhaustion, through the ignoring of our limits, can cause us to be irritable or absent. (Hangriness is real!)

What purpose does attuning to your physical body actually serve?

First, paying attention to your body allows you to know your boundaries and know your limits. Do you actually have the physical and emotional energy to serve at church for the whole year? Do you feel a sense of discomfort when you are in the presence of someone? Mindfully listening to your body allows you to notice and honor these things. Second, learning to pay attention to your internal cues and limits allows you to be more genuine toward yourself and others.

God intended for us to have physical bodies, and commands us to steward it just as we would any other gifts. How we treat our body can paint a picture of what is going on in our hearts and can be affected by how we view God. Scripture teaches us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and to honor God with our bodies because we are bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Even the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-40), which we know so well, instructs us to “love your neighbor as yourself”. If you do not love yourself, you cannot love your neighbor!

As part of your quiet time, I invite you to take a few minutes to consider these questions to gauge how you are treating your body. This exercise will help you grow in attuning to your body and soul in a deeper way.

1. How is my body feeling today?

2. Am I comfortable where I am sitting right now?

3. Am I feeling weary? Energized? 

4. Are there any aches and pains? Where do I notice them?

5. What can I do right now to alleviate any physical discomfort or pain?

6. How have my diet and sleep been lately?

7. Is my breathing shallow? Can I deepen it?

Now, begin to slow down and ask questions that connect your body to your relationship with God.

1. What type of physical body has God given me?

2. How can I honor that body by noticing it, listening to it, and responding to it? 

3. How can I use my body today to make His name known and to bring Him glory? 

At the end of the day, our bodies are broken and finite. Our purpose in life is not to glorify our bodies, but through our bodies, glorify Christ. Moderation or, rather, balance is important. Making space to notice and honor your body is not idolatry or worship, but it is honoring God’s design for you. God gave us physical bodies for a reason: to remind us that we are not self-sufficient, but that we need Him in all things. Honor and steward the body God has given to you, to love yourself well enough so that you have the capacity to love others.