Week 12: Living Water - Walk to the Beach Fitness Challenge

Week 12 Walk to the Beach Fitness Challenge: Living Water

Healthy Spirit: Living Water

He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:38

This scripture paints a vivid mental image that is repeated in several books of the Bible. Some translations use the term "heart" rather than belly. I find it interesting to see rapid changes in the rivers near my home as the weather changes. Sometimes the water flow is quiet and peaceful, yet the same river can roar and reach far beyond its banks after significant rainfall or due to melting snow and ice. As we spend time with God, His joy and love can begin to fill us to overflowing, spilling out onto those around us, perhaps at times without even realizing it.

Healthy Mind: Lumberton

The county seat of Robeson County in North Carolina, Lumberton provides a home to about 21,500 people. John Willis, an officer in the American Revolution, founded the city in 1787. Blue Velvet, a film by David Lynch, was set in Lumberton; however, the majority of it was filmed in Wilmington, which lies approximately 70 miles southeast of Lumberton. The Lumber River, designated as a National Wild and Scenic River, flows through the area. Part of the Lumber River State Park is located here. Those looking for a variety of recreational activities on the water and land can find many choices at this and other state parks scattered throughout the state.

Several sites in Lumberton are on the National Register of Historic Places, such as Luther Henry Caldwell House, Carolina Theatre, Planters Building, and Humphrey-Williams Plantation, to name a few. Several people of renown have ties to Lumberton, including Hunter Foster, actor; Penny Fuller, actress; Dr. Johnny Hunt, 2008 president of the Southern Baptist Convention; John Small, NFL linebacker; Tim Worley, NFL running back; and Brad Edwards, NFL defensive back who later became the Director of Athletics at George Mason University in Virginia.

Healthy Body: Drinking Water

Water is a great beverage of choice as it is readily available, less expensive than most drinks, and has no calories. Our daily need for water is determined by a number of factors such as body size, activity level, and weather. Many people, particularly those who are older, may not feel thirsty even when the body needs to drink.

Signs of dehydration can appear quickly and include symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth and skin, darker urine, decreased urine output, constipation, headache, dizziness, fever, low blood pressure, faster heart rate, sleepiness, irritability, and confusion.

Here are a few tips for increasing water consumption:

• Drink water with meals and before exercise.
• Keep a pitcher of cold water in the refrigerator.
• Carry a water bottle with you.
• Take medications with a full glass of water unless directed otherwise.
• Eat a variety of fresh, moist fruits daily.
• Purchase lemons and cut a slice to squeeze into a glass of water to change the taste if you dislike the taste of water.

 The CDC article Drinking Water FAQ offers detailed questions and answers, including information about well water, water testing, water advisories, and more.