Change That Lasts

Story by V. Michelle Bernard

Charity Stone (pictured with family), whose husband, Tom, is a pastor at the Pennsylvania Conference Kenhorst Boulevard church in Reading and the Pottstown church, and her young family attended iThrive this summer, hoping to get “healthier at setting boundaries in order to protect the overall health of our family,” she says. “As a pastoral family, we love to serve, but sometimes it is necessary to say no to tasks or people in our sphere of ministry so that we can stock up on fresh produce, take a walk when the kids need physical activity in nature or just plain connect as a couple and family.”

She says the retreat offered a way for the family to “to prioritize our spiritual, emotional and physical health. It was really fun to connect with others at the retreat, and we learned so much,” she adds.

In day-to-day life, she says that just getting the kids dressed and out the door to take a walk can feel like a workout. “Coordinating the whole family to exercise together is work, but it is worth it. ... It doesn’t happen every day, but if we can fit that in once a week, twice a week, maybe even three times? Some [amount of] time outdoors getting fresh air and walking is better than none!”

She notes that they also came away with a balanced attitude toward wellness. “A gradual, sustained transition toward more physical activity is better than a rapid, unsustainable change that doesn’t last,” she says.

Use these tools to help get started on the path to a healthier 2020.

• Each month, visit columbiaunionvisitor.com/healthy2020 to access wellness tips and motivational ideas. Use these monthly tips to get in the groove and set new goals.
• Follow the Visitor on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and read the weekly Visitor News Bulletin to access inspiring posts and tidbits that you can share with others. Don’t forget to tag us as you post about your health journey!
•  Join the Columbia Union Visitor Healthy 2020 Facebook Group (facebook.com/groups/healthy2020) for encouragement, health ministry tips and accountability partners who share your faith.
• Start training now for our 5K walk/run on September 20 in Columbia, Md. Keep an eye on our social media feeds for upcoming details.
• Did you know that Vibrant Life magazine provides tips and inspiration for healthy living each month? Visit olumbiaunionvisitor.com/healthy2020discount, enter coupon code healthy2020 to receive $5 off your purchase of one or more subscriptions.
• Thinking about attending a wellness camp in the Mountain View Conference or Pennsylvania Conference? Mention the Visitor when registering for a 10% discount.

Columbia Union Visitor's Healthy 2020 Private group · 5 members Join Group Throughout 2020 the Columbia Union Visitor staff will share tips and tools to help on the journey to a healthier 2020. We'd also like members to join ...