I learned something today.  And it almost equates to rocket science.  That is because, people do not usually connect Meditation exercises and good health practices as subjects that go hand in hand!  More than likely, that expression is quoted as, “It’s NOT rocket science!”

Got a minute?  We need to talk…big time!

I have mentioned to you in earlier blogs that I recently started a Mindfulness Meditation Group at the apartment complex where I live.  Needless to say, it is off to a great start!  Well, today, I had my first doctor prescribed physical therapy session and was thoroughly examined by the therapist by performing leg and arm exercises to see where my lack of strength lies and what areas of my torso needed to be revitalized. My therapist needed to design a complete 3 month therapy program for me.

To my surprise, the therapist had me to tighten and hold in my stomach muscles while performing all the leg movements/exercises, as I held on to two side bars with my hands for balancing. The therapist advised me to continue breathing as I performed these tasks.  Boy of boy, was I struggling to remain balanced and to complete the exercises in the prescribed time frame. What an exhaustive work out.

I was ashamed of my poor performance (which lasted for one hour), because during my meditation classes, I instruct the attendees to practice proper breathing methods for 20 minutes (stomach extended when inhaling and stomach deflated when exhaling), while during that time, rotate their wrist, ankles, toes, neck, and jaws.  The only difference in moving body parts in physical therapy exercises and meditation is that you are standing for one and sitting or reclining for the other.

Now here is where the two exercises meet the road.  Experts in both fields of study (meditation and physical therapy) clinically agree that in order to maintain good health, a person should at least dedicate 30 to 60 minutes a day to the breathing activities mentioned above. When they do this their blood pressure numbers can be lowered, anxieties can be erased, and a happier disposition can be experienced by all.  Researchers also claim that these improvements come about because stretching and proper breathing helps reduce stiffness in the arteries, which is ascribed to improving both blood flow and blood pressure. In addition, exercising sends fresh air to the brain to help ones thought process produce more positive functions and less negative dispositions.

WWJD? (What Would Jesus Do?)

Now, King David wrote:  “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.  I praise you, for I am fearfully(*) and wonderfully(**) made.  Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”  Psalm 139:13-14

Note: (*)  “Fearfully, when translated from the Hebrew means with great reverence, heart-felt interest, and with respect.

Note (**)  “Wonderfully, when translated from the Hebrew means unique and set apart.

God was way ahead of the game all along. Those health experts were playing catch-up! The Holy Spirit suggest that you study your bible to show yourself approved. Apply the Lord’s teachings and excel in all your duties and performances rightly applying His word and truths.

So, both my new meditation assignment, and my doctor’s latest prescription for me go hand in hand.  Oh, how the Lord does order my steps.  He is in charge of all of my business. And He also designs a clear path for me to follow.  My prayer for each of you is simply this:  Dear Heavenly Father, the New Year is almost halfway over and we wish to stop right here and give thanks to You for the unending promises that You have planned for all of us to be prosper during this year.  Many of us have not as yet realized our hopes and dreams and we are becoming anxious because five months have already come and gone.  But never the less, we are trusting in You and know that Your word is true and that You want to give us a future and a hope.  Please hear our cries and help us to listen to Your voice and to obey Your will.  In the Matchless Name of Jesus I pray.  Amen!

Scripture Lesson:  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”  Jeremiah 29:11-12

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!