By Jade Whitehurst
As a 33-year-old Christian wife and mom and someone who struggles with anxiety, I’ve come to understand that caring for our bodies isn’t just about physical appearance — it’s deeply connected to our mental and spiritual well-being. In a fast-paced world full of stress, anxiety, and overwhelming demands, fitness and nutrition have become essential tools for me to maintain my mental health and grow closer to God.
The Bible reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Taking care of my body isn’t just about looking good; it’s about honoring the vessel God has given me. It’s about learning to care for my body not out of obligation, but out of obedience to the One who created me. When I prioritize my physical health, I’m better equipped to handle challenges with a clear mind and a peaceful heart, knowing that trials produce strength.
Regular exercise has been a game-changer for my mental health. It’s easy to find ourselves overwhelmed and doing mental laps around the anxiety pool, but working out provides a physical outlet for that tension. When we exercise, our brains release a feel-good hormone known as endorphins. So whether it’s a morning run, a strength training session, or a calming body movement practice, physical activity can help manage the woes of life. The endorphins released during exercise are a natural mood booster, leaving me feeling more positive and energized. This has helped me approach each day with a renewed strength and focus, trusting that God will provide the energy I need. After all, He made our bodies with the intention to move. A healthy mind, body, and soul is better equipped to do the work God has called you to.
Nutrition is another crucial piece. What we eat impacts our mood, energy levels, and overall mental clarity. I’ve found that nourishing my body with whole, nutrient-dense foods that God made helps me feel more balanced and less prone to mood swings. When I fuel my body with what it needs — lean proteins, healthy fats, fresh fruits and vegetables — I’m not just feeding my physical body but also supporting my mental and emotional well-being. When I indulge too often in sugary, processed foods, I notice a decline in my mood and energy, making it harder to stay centered and focused on God’s purpose for my life.
Fitness and nutrition have also taught me valuable spiritual lessons. Just as we must be disciplined and consistent in our workouts and food choices to see progress, we must persevere in our prayer lives and relationship with God in order to grow spiritually.
Moreover, taking care of my body has taught me about grace. There will be days when I miss a workout or indulge in a less-than-healthy meal, and that’s OK. Just as God’s grace covers our spiritual shortcomings, I’ve learned to extend grace to myself on my health journey. What matters is that I keep moving forward, learning to remove my triggers, trusting in God’s plan, and recognizing that each step I take — whether in fitness, nutrition, or faith — brings me closer to the person He’s called me to be.
For me, fitness and nutrition are integral to maintaining my mental health and nurturing my relationship with God as an act of worship. So let’s embrace this journey, knowing that each step, each healthy choice, is a way to glorify God and live out His purpose for our lives.
Jade Whitehurst is a wife, mom, fitness coach, and eighth-grade science teacher. You can follow her on Instagram @jadewhitehurst_thefaithfitmom.