Ahhhh…..4th of July; barbecues, fireworks, all things Red, White, and Blue. The day we celebrate our Independence and ‘Merica! Freedom is a beautiful thing. Don’t worry, I’m not getting political in today’s blog. Instead, I’m going for the gut check by asking this one question, how free are you really?
Freedom is defined as the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Now, from a fitness aspect let’s look at these three areas.
ACT – Think back to the SuperBowl halftime show. Love it or hate it, Jennifer Lopez had the whole world buzzing with her pole twirling, hip shaking dance routine. The woman is 50 years old and was moving her body with zero limitations. Memes comparing JLo at 50 to “me at 21 hurting my neck picking up a pencil” flooded social media. Sure, it’s hysterical but there is so much truth to the memes. Take a moment to reflect on your own strength, mobility and agility. No, friends I’m not asking if you can swing around a pole but can you walk flights of steps, play with your kids, and move your body freely without limitations?
SPEAK – The Lord commands us to be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19) so that we can produce the righteousness that God desires. Consider the ways you describe yourself. In my house I forbid the F word. That’s right, FAT is not a word my children are allowed to use. The way we speak of ourselves is so important and I want my children to have the freedom to use words that only produce good fruit! You have the same freedom, so choose your words wisely! Choose to build yourself up, and others too for that matter.
THINK – The mind is the easiest place to fall hostage. Are you limiting yourself from living your best life because you are held captive by addiction, fear, excuses or complacency? The Navy seals 40% rule states when your mind is telling you that you’re done, that you’re exhausted, that you cannot possibly go any further, you’re only actually 40% done. You have the freedom to develop your mental toughness. You have the freedom to create grit that takes you the extra mile!
Freedom is power. There is power in not making excuses. You have the right to take ownership of your life. If you find you are currently being held captive by your own thoughts, speech and actions it’s time to flip that script. Choosing to live a healthy life unlocks real freedom. We have one life, let’s choose to live it well. You are strong, you are able!