The Body as a Temple: Principles to Improve Physical and Spiritual Health
When our bodies are weak, lethargic, or poorly cared for, it affects our mental clarity, emotional balance, and even our ability to connect with God.
Dawson Stephens
9/24/20254 min read
As Christians, we often focus on our spiritual health—prayer, Bible study, and service. Yet, God gave us a body to house our spirit. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” (1 Corinthians 6:19). Our physical health and spiritual health are intimately connected. When our bodies are weak, lethargic, or poorly cared for, it affects our mental clarity, emotional balance, and even our ability to connect with God.
Conversely, when we honor God with our physical well-being, we enhance our spiritual life. Caring for our body demonstrates stewardship, discipline, and gratitude to God. One practical framework that beautifully integrates this holistic view of health is the NEWSTART program—eight principles for physical wellness that support spiritual vitality.
1. Nutrition
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Our bodies thrive on nutrient-dense foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. Poor diet can lead to fatigue, mental fog, and mood swings, which can hinder our ability to pray or serve others.
Practical Takeaways:
Replace processed snacks with fruits or nuts.
Meal prep for the week to avoid unhealthy choices.
Include colorful vegetables daily—they’re packed with antioxidants that support brain and immune function.
Spiritual Idea: Use mealtime as a moment of gratitude, recognizing God’s provision and blessing.
2. Exercise
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24).
Physical activity strengthens more than just muscles; it fosters discipline, perseverance, and resilience. Regular exercise improves circulation, energy levels, and mental clarity, allowing us to focus better in prayer and Scripture study.
Practical Takeaways:
Start with a 15–20 minute daily walk or stretching routine.
Incorporate activities you enjoy—bike rides, swimming, or home workouts.
Exercise with a friend or family member for accountability and fellowship.
Spiritual Idea: Use your exercise time as a moving meditation—pray, worship, or reflect on Scripture as you walk or stretch.
3. Water
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers” (3 John 1:2).
Water is essential for life, helping with digestion, detoxification, and brain function. Dehydration can reduce focus and energy, making it harder to engage spiritually.
Practical Takeaways:
Aim for at least 6–8 glasses of water per day.
Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal teas.
Start your day with a glass of water to jumpstart hydration.
4. Sunlight
“God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day” (Genesis 1:16).
Sunlight is essential for vitamin D production and supports circadian rhythms, improving sleep and mood. A healthy mind is better able to pray, meditate, and rejoice in God.
Practical Takeaways:
Spend at least 15 minutes outdoors daily, preferably in the morning.
Practice gratitude as you observe God’s creation in the sunlight.
Combine sunlight with gentle exercise for dual benefits.
5. Temperance
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control” (Proverbs 25:28).
Temperance, or self-control, extends to diet, entertainment, work, and habits. Practicing moderation guards against excess, fosters discipline, and strengthens our spiritual resilience.
Practical Takeaways:
Avoid overindulgence in food, alcohol, or screen time.
Plan your schedule with intentional rest and work periods.
Reflect weekly on areas where you can exercise better self-control.
Spiritual Idea: Temperance in life strengthens your ability to resist temptation and sin.
6. Air
“The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life” (Job 33:4).
Fresh air supports lung function, boosts energy, and clears the mind. Breathing deeply during prayer or reflection can help you feel more connected and present with God.
Practical Takeaways:
Open windows at home or spend time outside daily.
Practice deep breathing exercises or mindful breathing during prayer.
Take short outdoor breaks during work or study.
7. Rest
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Rest is essential for physical repair, emotional stability, and spiritual renewal. Sleep deprivation can lead to irritability, poor decision-making, and decreased spiritual focus.
Practical Takeaways:
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Establish a relaxing bedtime routine—limit screens and create a calm environment.
Include short daily rest periods or quiet reflection times.
Spiritual Idea: Treat Sabbath rest and daily rest as sacred, allowing God to renew your body and spirit.
8. Trust in God
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
Health is not only physical; it’s also emotional and spiritual. Trusting God reduces stress, strengthens resilience, and allows us to live joyfully within the body He has given us.
Practical Takeaways:
Begin each day with prayer and Scripture reflection.
Practice gratitude journaling to acknowledge God’s faithfulness.
When anxious about health, work, or life challenges, intentionally cast your worries on God.
Putting It All Together
The NEWSTART principles show us that physical health and spiritual health are deeply intertwined. Nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest, and trust in God aren’t just good lifestyle choices—they’re acts of worship. By caring for the body God gave us, we increase our ability to think clearly, pray effectively, serve others faithfully, and live a joyful, Spirit-filled life.
Action Steps for This Week:
Drink at least 6 glasses of water daily.
Take a 20-minute walk outdoors while reflecting on God’s creation.
Replace one unhealthy snack with a fruit or vegetable.
Set aside 10 minutes daily for quiet prayer or meditation.
Reflect on one area of self-control and intentionally practice temperance.
When we honor God with our bodies, we honor Him with our spirits. A healthy body fuels a vibrant spiritual life, creating a foundation for a faithful, fruitful Christian journey.
