Have you noticed how often we talk about “wellness” while our health, as a nation, continues to decline?
It’s no exaggeration—we’re living in a health crisis in America. Our physical health touches every area of our lives, from work productivity to intimacy, but sadly, it’s one of the most neglected dimensions. Most people don’t take charge of their health because they’re overwhelmed, busy, or don’t see an immediate need. And it’s not until a health crisis strikes that we kick ourselves into gear. We either pay for it now or pay for it later based on our health.
So what would our lives look like if we prioritized our own – and our spouse’s – physical health? From our mental clarity to our core commitment to Jesus, keeping our bodies moving, nourished, and rested will help us grow toward each other and our savior.
If you and your spouse need to jumpstart your physical health, try focusing on the goal as a team.
Here are four ways we can stay physically healthy together:
- Exercise Together
Finding activities you both enjoy, like walking, running, dancing, hiking, or even trying new fitness classes, makes exercise feel like a shared experience rather than a chore. - Cook Meals as a Team
Planning and preparing meals together can help you eat more healthily and give you quality time in the kitchen. We’ve also used this time to include our kids, producing fun, teachable moments while teaching them how to prepare meals. - Prioritize Good Sleep Habits
Develop a shared bedtime routine that encourages restful sleep for both of you. This could include minimizing screen time before bed, keeping the bedroom dark and quiet, or winding down with a relaxing activity like reading together. - Stay Accountable Together
Setting shared health goals, like training for a race, drinking more water, or taking up an activity new to you both (someday, we will pick up going golfing together :), can keep you both on track and motivated.
When you invest in your physical health, you’re actively working on yourself, which benefits your spouse and your relationship. Bringing your healthiest, happiest self to your marriage creates an environment where both partners can thrive. Let’s commit to growing stronger, healthier, and more capable together. Need some action steps?
Here’s how we can start making physical health a priority together:
- Make a plan.
As the old saying goes, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” Start small, but stay consistent. Atomic Habits by James Clear has been an excellent resource for building a plan using identity-based habits. As we’ve seen, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” - Encourage each other.
Having your liar partner by your side can make all the difference. Cheer each other on, keep each other accountable, and make it fun. We have found that even taking long walks to chat has been super helpful. - Play the long game
Health is a journey, not a quick fix. Staying healthy for each other means building lasting habits, focusing on progress rather than perfection, and enjoying the small victories. - Get Expert Support
Having an expert in your corner is one of the fastest ways to expedite growth. We’ve done this by talking with a nutritional expert about a whole-food meal plan and learning from friends like Chris Curillo at MissionFit, who is an incredible coach.
As we get close to the holidays, let’s start seeing our physical health as more than just a “nice to have.” It’s a core part of honoring the life we’ve been given. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 calls us to treat our bodies as temples, not just for ourselves but as a way to serve our partners and honor our Creator.
Together for marriage,
Mike and Holly
💡 Partnership Resource Spotlight
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