The Eight Laws of Health

Eating often represents good times, friends, getting out of the house, or family get-togethers.

But should the content of our food be thought about at all—or is taste the only criteria?

The fact is, eating intelligently does matter. What we eat affects us a lot. Our lifestyle and diet contribute to sickness and disease, and also affect our mood, our ability to handle stress, and our general well-being. And taste is not always a good indicator of healthy food.

We were created for action. Exercise provides greater vitality, extra energy, and longer life. Yet, physical activity is missing from many people's lives.

Some of the many benefits of regular exercise include:
• Better mental health and mood
• Strengthened bones and muscles
• Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
• Better management of blood sugar and insulin levels
• Improved sleep and daily vitality

Water is an all-purpose cleanser both inside and out of the body. It is an abundant and effective agent in maintaining health and curing disease.

Our bodies are approximately 60-70% water. Drinking pure, clean water regularly helps transport nutrients, eliminate waste, lubricate joints, regulate temperature, and keep bodily functions performing at their peak.

Sunlight has had some bad publicity recently. The impression has been given that even small amounts of sun exposure can be hazardous to health.

Yet sensible, regular exposure to natural sunlight is essential for life: it triggers Vitamin D synthesis, boosts the immune system, promotes better mood through serotonin production, and establishes natural circadian sleep cycles.

As Frances E. Willard wrote, “Temperance is moderation in the things that are good and total abstinence from the things that are foul.”

True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that which is healthful. It applies to diet, work habits, entertainment, and all areas of daily life.

Air is the most vital element for humans and animals. We could survive for weeks without food, or days without water, but only minutes without air.

Pure, fresh air is a vital tonic for the system. Breathing deeply in outdoor settings purifies the blood, soothes the nervous system, stimulates appetite, and promotes sound, invigorating sleep.

It is impossible to grow either physically or intellectually without rest. Work is an energy expenditure; rest restores and rebuilds.

Adequate daily sleep, regular relaxation, and the weekly Sabbath rest allow our cells to repair, our immune defenses to recharge, and our minds to find peace and renewed perspective.

What do faith, religion, and trust in God have to do with health?

Modern medicine recognizes the profound connection between the mind and the body. A living faith and relationship with our loving Creator brings peace of mind, freedom from debilitating anxiety and guilt, hope in trials, and a strong sense of purpose that sustains physical and emotional well-being.