8-Point Checklist for Pastoral Body Care

by Charles Stone

Statistics tell us that pastors don’t take great care of their bodies. However, if we are to remain effective for the long-haul, we must pay careful attention to taking good care of our bodies.
Answer these 8 questions and determine how well you are caring for your body.

1. Am I keeping my body weight at a reasonable level? Calculate your body mass index here?
2. Do I regularly exercise (3-5 times a week for at least 30 minutes)?
3. Would others say I manage my stress well?
4. Do I do some fun things outside of ministry?
5. Do I take a full day off each week?
6. Do I avoid guilt feelings when I take my day off?
7. Do I take a real vacation each year?
8. Am I able to disconnect from the phone, email, and computer for several hours at a time?

How did you do?
If you answered ‘no’ to any of these questions, what should be your next step to take better care of yourself?
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