Dec/Jan 2012

Get ready to meet Liz, Nadia, Greg, Michael, Ada and Dawn. These six people each have a story to share about how they are overcoming depression. According to Dr. Scott Morris, founder of the Church Health Center in Memphis, “Living healthy doesn’t just mean that you see the doctor regularly. Healthy living means that all aspects of your life are in balance.” Read all six of their stories and use the book along with these online companion pages to make changes and strive for optimal wellness.

Liz was exercising, losing excessive weight and enjoying life. However, she experienced some major setbacks that didn’t have much to do with her exercise or nutrition. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

For years Nadia had a persistent feeling that something was wrong. Ever since childhood she tried to make big changes in her life to make things better. She discovered that small changes made a difference in her overall mood. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

Clinical depression was a longtime diagnosis for Greg. He found that a series of antidepressant medications left him without energy and regularly sleepy. He was looking for ways to manage his depression and achieve overall wellness. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

Michael used alcohol and food as self-medication for his depression. But when his doctor gave him a surprising health diagnosis, Michael got a wake-up call that it was time to find other solutions. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

From her early-childhood experiences Ada had a home life of abuse and trauma. Nonetheless, once she was an adult she married, had children, and got a job. Her struggles continued and led her to a stay at a mental health hospital. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

As a child, Dawn wondered why everyone else seemed so happy all the time. At eighteen years old, she skipped school and made her first suicide attempt. Going to church was a step toward recovery but she needed more. This is one of six stories and includes discussion questions and links.

For most people running the 26.2 mile distance (42.2k) of a marathon is a big undertaking. Pushing someone that entire distance would require you to expand your range --- of physical ability, determination and your own personal motives. Now do 9 marathons and a lot of other racing events and you’ll start to get an idea of how Gene Carter has learned to stretch further. This is a story to get you inspired then get you pushing yourself to believe for something more. Use the PUSH YOURSELF tool to set your own goals and create your own story.

By age 30 I was obese, felt inadequate and lacked direction. Now as a senior, I’m fit, running half-marathons and confident through my faith in God. I have a simple message for those 60 and over: find strength through faith and run toward a healthier you. Age doesn’t matter.

Oh, those aches and pains make it tough to stretch and perform like you want. Your spirit is willing but your flesh --- well it just needs a little help. Everyone can benefit from improved flexibility. If you have the nerve to try something new, we have the flexibility training that will get you moving further. Read more to learn how you can receive a FREE Z-Health Flexibility Phone Consultation with our Training Department Editor, Jason Rhymer.

Canada’s expansive wilderness can be a huge territory to cover especially if you serve as a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. But for Kristian Josok, a career in policing is only part of the story. He is a DJ, bodybuilder, husband and father. Kristian talks about how men can be versatile and yet maintain balance. Listen to streaming audio of one of Kristian’s mixes while you read.

What happens when you intentionally limit your range of motion both physically and spiritually? Gary Thomas shares the story of one young mother of three, Karen. She felt trapped because she was ignoring everything below her head. To gain confidence Karen stretched and found renewed passion. This spiritual training article for both men and women is rich in Bible applications. It will encourage you to use physical fitness to stretch spiritually.

Group Fitness is a great way for women to exercise. Want to find the right class for you? In SECTION 3 of this 3-section article author and instructor Amia Freeman offers presents 5 more group fitness class options and concludes with motivational thoughts from group fitness instructors. Group fitness – go for it!

Group Fitness is a great way for women to exercise. Want to find the right class for you? In SECTION 2 of this 3-section article author and instructor Amia Freeman offers you an assessment guide you can use as you explore 5 group fitness class options. Group fitness – go for it!

Getting ready for a holiday ignites a certain joyous cheer and excitement. But, turn up a fast paced samba rhythm with a few funky dance moves and you can erase a full days worth of irritations and tensions. Group Fitness is a great way for women to exercise. Want to find the right class for you? This 3-section article introduces you to group fitness, gives you tools you can use and includes motivational thoughts from instructors. Group fitness – go for it!

A powerful DVD resource helps those with weight loss goals to build lean muscle and bolster faith. This article includes 3 videos highlighting the cardio, strength and core movements featured. Faith & Fitness Magazine NEWSLETTER subscribers will get an exclusive chance to win one of 5 FREE DVD’s to be given away in January 2012. Read more for details.

Get on the floor and wallow. When was the last time you stretched your arms, your legs, your back… your point of view? If you feel stiff it's because you are. Not just physically but spiritually too. Keep reading and you’ll be movin’ and stretching further in no time at all.Read this now and keep checking back for weekly updated comments.