2021: A year for wellbeing

“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.” –Isaiah 40:31a

The Covid-19 pandemic has endured far longer than anyone imagined, and it has left us feeling stressed, weary, fearful, frustrated, angry, isolated, and dislocated. Many are simply depleted.

Even in normal times being a good steward of our personal health takes time, vigilance, commitment and discipline. The pandemic’s protracted disruption has made it especially hard to take care of ourselves at the very time we need it most.

Because it will take months for the coronavirus vaccine to be widely available, and even longer for “normal” to return, it may be wise for God’s people to designate 2021 “The Year of My Wellbeing” and focus on our health.

Our spiritual, mental, emotional wellbeing are interconnected. Working on any one of them will improve the rest. Working on all of them will help you maintain equilibrium as we live into normal.

Here are some ideas to help you make a wellbeing strategy:

• Ask God for help.
• Don’t go it alone! Work with friends for mutual support.
• Tend to your spirit through Scripture study, devotionals, worship, and, most importantly, prayer!
• Make quality time for loved ones.
• Do something just for you.
• Stuck? Talk to a counselor.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat healthfully.
• Practice stress-reduction techniques.

The pandemic will end, rest assured. When it does, we will all be greatly relieved. In the meantime, making 2021 “The Year of My Wellbeing” will help you stay strong.

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© Copyright 2021, the Rev. Rob Blezard. Reprinted by permission.
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