N.E.W. S.M.A.R.T. Living Part 3
In Part 1, we introduced the NEW SMART concept. The acronym stands for N-nutrition, E-exercise, W-water, S-sunshine, M-mindset, A-air, R-rest, T-trust in God. In Part 2, we defined the word NEW. In this post we will look at the letters S and M in SMART. Again, we will take the whole body approach by sharing how I apply these principals in body, mind, and spirit.
S - SUNSHINE
Body - Light is obviously crucial for healthy living. Some people suffer emotionally when they don’t get enough sunlight in the winter or darker months. Of course, too much light can be harmful as well. However, the proper amount of sunlight can be so soothing to the nerves, and a blessing to the endocrine system which regulates our hormones. In springtime, I love taking a few moments to soak up the sun. How wonderful it feels after the cold winter months. But, there are great options like infrared heat and light from fireplace fires, or infrared saunas for those winter months as well.
This past Christmas, my husband and I bought a infrared sauna blanket for our family and we have really been enjoying it. Lying in the very warm blanket is so comforting and relaxing. Then, after about 45 minutes, you get very sweaty, which is great knowing you’re sweating out toxins. Follow this with a hot and cold shower and you feel fresh and rejuvenated. Click on the picture to learn more about the benefits of light therapy.
Mind - Your eyes are the “windows” to your soul (mind, will, and emotions). The bible says, “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light.” Matthew 6:22 So, if you want whole body health, keep your eye fixed on the light of truth - Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit.
Spirit - When our spirit is connected to the light of the Holy Spirit, amazing things happen. “This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. 6 So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. 7 But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:5-7 Just as a plant grows and matures because of the light of the sun, so too our spirit thrives in the light and presence of Holy Spirit.
M - MINDSET
This is the letter of the acronym where NEW START 2.0 mostly comes into play. The first T in START stands for temperance, which means abstinence, moderation, and self-control. These are all vital to healthy living. However, I believe there’s more to it than just NOT doing something. For me, when I began recognizing unhealthy thought patterns and changed them, my health and well being improved dramatically (my story). That is why I liked and changed the acronym to NEW SMART. Thinking differently after recognizing truth/light can radically change our lives for the better.
Body - What thoughts are you thinking about your body? Do you say hateful things in your mind about certain body parts you don’t like? Are you causing yourself to be sick because of what you are saying to yourself in your mind like I did? Jesus said to love your neighbor as yourself Matthew 22:39. Make sure you’re loving yourself so you can love your neighbor!
Mind - Again, think about what you are thinking about. What are your thoughts dwelling on throughout the day? Are they negative or positive? Write down what you’re observing for one week and see where you could make improvements. The bible says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:2
Lately I’ve been speaking out loud Psalm 34 whenever my mind starts dwelling on a negative thought pattern. This action is a powerful weapon against our enemy the devil. Evil angels can put negative thoughts into our heads, but by speaking praise scriptures it will stop them every time. Hallelujah! You can have a healthy, happy, and positive thought life even when circumstances are bad.
Spirit - “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” Proverbs 23:7 This verse is a spiritual law. The spirit/heart (belief system) dominates the mind and body. The mind in turn dominates the body. For example, when I was 18 years old and diagnosed with hypothyroidism, I was told that I would have to take medication the rest of my life. I believed that was true until I heard many stories to the contrary. My belief system changed first, then I changed my thoughts of self-hatred, which eventually led me to addressing my situation physically and getting off my medication (my story). So, if you want to change your life, change your belief system first, then your mindset, and then take physical action. As these three parts of your being come into alignment, you will prosper and be in health. “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2
In Part 4 we’ll finish our NEW SMART series. Until then, may the sunlight of truth dispel negative thought patterns in your mind so that you will be blessed and be a blessing In Jesus Name! Go forth bold, blessed, and brilliant! Thank you for sharing, subscribing, and commenting below.