As the New Year begins, if your resolution is solely focused on living a healthy spiritual life, consider adding another priority: physical health.
Dr. Juho Chung, the author of Holy Body: Purpose-Driven Body and a renowned health trainer, emphasizes that a healthy spirit and strong faith stem from a healthy body. "We should nourish not only our spirit but also our body," he states. Dr. Chung introduces the concept of the "Three Beats"—nutrition, sleep, and exercise—as essential components for maintaining a healthy body, alongside spiritual practices such as prayer and worship.
"It is not a waste of time or a luxury to try to keep your body healthier through exercise," Dr. Chung explains. "Such prejudice is akin to thinking that reading the Bible is a reverent spiritual activity, while physical exercise is merely a worldly one. This perspective is incorrect. Through physical training, we cultivate not only physical health but also a disciplined and orderly life."
Dr. Chung has the credentials to prove his skill: a doctorate in Rehabilitation Science from Korea University, plus additional training in immunology and genetics from Harvard Medical School, as well as coursework in mental health from the Department of Mental Health in Los Angeles County. He is presently taking courses for M.Div. and CPE from Prestige University in California. In addition to these impressive academic credentials, Dr. Chung works as a "faith mentor," an adviser who combines his understanding of health and spirituality.
"As an athlete, I've written many books on general health and exercise. But true health isn't just about physical fitness. To be truly healthy, you need balance—health in the body, mind, and soul. It's essential to consider all three aspects equally," Dr. Chung says.
He also highlights a common theological misunderstanding within churches regarding the physical body. "Many churches overlook the importance of the body, viewing it merely as a shell to shed when we leave this world. But theologically, our bodies hold significant value."
Dr. Chung recalls a pivotal moment in his perspective, inspired by Pastor Yongjo Ha of Onnuri Church. For three years, he cared for Pastor Ha's declining health. "After his health had already deteriorated, Pastor Ha told me, ‘Now I understand the importance of health.’ That experience deeply impressed upon me the connection between the body and the soul," he shares.
Many pastors, says Dr. Chung, suffer from chronic illnesses resulting from stress, insomnia, and fatigue. Citing statistics from the Korea Institute for Missionary Studies, it says 18.5 percent of the retired missionaries surveyed cited health and illness as major reasons for resigning.
His two most important recommendations for keeping spiritual and physical life in balance include:
- Regular exercise two or three times per week.
Rather than working out daily, balance exercise with rest. Achieving harmony in sleep, diet, and exercise is as important as maintaining a balanced faith life.
- Eat properly and in balance.
While it’s important to consume nutritious foods, indulging in your favorite dishes occasionally is equally vital. "Eating something delicious, even if it’s not the healthiest choice, can help relieve stress and prepare you for the next stage of exercise," he explains.
"God gave us our bodies as a gift and allows us to grow stronger through exercise. When muscles develop, hormones are released, which not only clarify the mind but also improve physical well-being," Dr. Chung says. "Just as a believer must read the Bible and worship, they must also take care about their body."
*This article is a revised and condensed translation of an article originally published by Christian Today.
