Taking Care of Our Bodies for Life: A Lifelong Love Story
“If I’d known I was going to live this long, I would’ve taken much better care of myself.”
In a world of quick fixes and crash diets, it’s easy to forget one important truth: your body is not a short-term project—it’s your lifelong home. Taking care of it isn’t about chasing trends or perfection. It’s about nurturing a relationship that will last for the rest of your life.
In the book “Out of The Spin Cycle” Jen Hatmaker recounts her 93 year year old grandma telling her sadly “If I’d known I was going to live this long, I would’ve taken much better care of myself.” She continues to say:
“This is our one and only body. The skin we’ll be living in 40 years from now. Our body is our friend, our ally. It is the vessel that will carry us the rest of our days, until we shed it for our permanent glory. In the meantime, treat it with the respect it deserves and the attention it requires.”
Ladies, we don’t need to be that ideal number on the scale, but every woman knows she feels better when she is taking care of her body. That means feeding our body food that will nourish it and protecting it from destructive habits. It means we care about health.
Let’s talk about what it means to truly care for your body—not just for a season, but for a lifetime.
1. Shift the Mindset: From Punishment to Partnership
True wellness begins in the mind. If we see our bodies as a problem to fix, we’ll constantly be at war with ourselves. But when we view our bodies as partners—living, breathing companions on life’s journey—everything changes.
Start by asking: What does my body need today to feel nourished, supported, and strong?
Sometimes the answer is a workout. Sometimes it’s rest. Always, it’s respect.
2. Move Because You Can, Not Because You Have To
Movement is a gift. Your body was designed to move, stretch, lift, walk, dance, and breathe deeply. Instead of punishing your body into shape, find ways to move that bring joy. Go for a walk in the sunshine. Dance in the kitchen. Try yoga, hiking, swimming, or lifting weights—whatever makes you feel alive.
Lifelong movement isn’t about intensity. It’s about consistency. A little each day goes a long way.
3. Nourish with Intention, Not Restriction
Healthy eating shouldn’t feel like deprivation—it should feel like nourishment. Think of food as fuel, as medicine, as delight. Choose whole, colorful foods that energize you. Drink water like it's your job (aim for half your body weight, in ounces, per day). Enjoy planned treats, in moderation, with zero guilt.
The key to sustainable eating? Balance. Eat in a way that supports your body and your soul.
4. Honor Rest and Recovery
Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Sleeping is not lazy. Rest is not a luxury. They are essential parts of your body’s renewal system. Whether it’s 8 hours of deep sleep, 20 minutes of stillness, or a slow Sunday with no agenda—build rest into your life rhythm.
Stress breaks down the body. Rest builds it back up.
5. Listen to the Whispers Before They Become Screams
Your body is always speaking. Are you listening?
A nagging ache, a sense of fatigue, a change in appetite—these are signals, not inconveniences. Don’t push through pain and call it strength. True strength is knowing when to pause, when to get help, and when to give your body the care it’s asking for.
6. Give Yourself Grace on the Journey
You are not a machine. Life will shift—jobs change, babies are born, seasons get busy, energy levels ebb and flow. Taking care of your body for life means accepting that health is not a straight line.
Some days, weeks, or even seasons will be better than others. That’s okay. Don’t quit when it gets messy. Give yourself grace for the season you’re in and take what steps you can to be your healthiest self given your current circumstances.
7. Celebrate What Your Body Can Do
Your body isn’t just a size or a shape—it’s your story.
It’s carried you through long nights, big milestones, belly laughs, heartbreaks, and healing. It deserves more than criticism. It deserves celebration.
So speak kindly to it. Dress it in clothes that make you feel confident. Thank it daily. And never forget: this is the only body you get. Treat it like the miracle it is.
Final Thoughts: This Is a Relationship, Not a Regimen
Lifelong health isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being committed.
Choose to be in a loving, lifelong relationship with your body—one built on listening, nourishment, movement, rest, and grace. You don’t have to do it all today. Just take one small step in the direction of care.
Because your body isn’t your enemy. It’s your lifelong home. Treat it like you plan to live there—for a very long time.
Hi, I’m Chrissy Horner!
I’m passionate about helping women curate the healthiest, most joy-filled versions of themselves. Follow Rooted & Refining for healthy recipes, workout suggestions, faith-filled mindset tips, and simple ways to bring more fun into your everyday life. Sign up today!
