Let’s be honest, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is something everyone strives to do, or at least likes the idea. While this may look different from person to person, the undeniable truth is that happiness often derives from choosing to take care of and honor the bodies Christ gave us. In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, one must take into consideration not only their physical health, but also their emotional and spiritual health. As students at Northwestern, there are countless resources available which are able to help with the enhancement of our health. NW’s students are thankful for these resources and continue to put them into use, as seen below.
First is the element of physical health. It is no secret that NW’s athletic facilities are some of the nicest around. The Rowenhorst Student Center (RSC) features quality equipment to train with, coaches who go above and beyond to help students reach their goals and adequate space to practice and perform in.
NW freshman Brynn Nelson shares how her experiences at the RSC have helped her to stay physically healthy. “I like going to the gym at the RSC because it has flexible hours so I can always find a time to go that works with my schedule,” Nelson said. Nelson also mentioned how the RSC is convenient because it is free for students, and it is a good option for when it gets too cold to go on a walk outside.
The next aspect of health is emotional health. Sophomore Marissa Leraas described how she maintains her emotional health as follows: “I think it’s important to prioritize what you need. Sometimes this may mean participating in campus activities, and other times it may mean taking a nap.” Junior Talea Errington finds her emotional health to be at its best either when she is hanging out with friends or when she takes time for herself to rest. Junior Jillian Simon also finds that the best way for her to stay emotionally healthy is to spend time with her friends. “I am a huge extrovert. I pretty much need to constantly be with my friends; I can last maybe an hour without social interaction,” Simon said.
The last, but certainly not least, element of health is spiritual health. Being a Christian college, NW has a lot to offer to help students grow in their faith. One of the favorite ways for students to maintain their spiritual health is by attending events such as chapel, Praise and Worship and Discipleship Groups. Along with campus – lead activities, there are ways for students to grow in their relationship with Christ on their own time.
Nelson practices this by attending a weekly Bible study. “It’s a really good group of girls who are all wise and it’s encouraging to know that they all want to be there,” Nelson said.
While doing your best to maintain a healthy lifestyle, students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources at their disposal. Do not only act upon obvious entities such as the RSC or the chapel but spend time with people who will build you up with their wisdom and encouragement, improving every area of your health. Be mindful of the decisions you make based on what your body needs in every given situation. When students take care of the bodies God has gifted us, we give Him the glory.
