Top Twenty-Five Reasons to Exercise

1        Strengthens the heart muscle.

2        Decreases the incidence of heart attack.

3        Reduces risks for heart disease, including reduced bad cholesterol (LDL) and increased good cholesterol (HDL)

4        Improves circulation and oxygen/nutrient transport throughout the body.

5        Helps lose weight and keep it off

6        Improves breathing efficiency.

7        Strengthens and tones muscles and im­proves appearance.

8        Helps prevent back problems and back pain.

9        Improves posture.

10    Strengthens bones and helps reduce risk of osteoporosis.

11    Strengthens the tissues around joints and reduces joint discomfort and arthritis.

12    Decreases the risk of several types of cancer.

13    Improves immune function, which de­creases risk for infectious diseases.

14    Maintains physical and mental function throughout the second half of life.

15    Increases self-confidence and self-esteem.

16    Boosts energy and increases productivity.

17    Improves sleep.

18    Helps create a positive attitude about life.

19    Reduces anxiety and depression.

20    Increases resistance to fatigue.

21    May lengthen life span.

22    Reduces blood pressure.

23    Decreases the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

24    Reduces stress.

25    Improves cognitive function (you think more clearly)

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant. Later it yields the peace­ful fruits of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:11)

In conjunction with its commitment to be with the sick, poor, the alienated, the suffering, and the dying, Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church began its Parish Nurse Program on 3-1-04.  As parish nurse, facilitates the healing mission of our congregation by serving in the following roles:

·    Integrator of Faith and Health - Seeks to identify more deeply the connection between one's faith and health.

·    Health Educator - Promotes an atmosphere where individuals of all ages, through a variety of educational activities, explore the relationship between values, attitudes, lifestyle, faith and health.

·    Personal Health Counselor - Discusses health issues and problems with individuals; makes home, hospital, and nursing home visits as needed.

·    Referral Agent and Liaison with Congregational and Community Resources

      - Provides referrals to other congregational resources as well as those found in the community at large.

·    Facilitator of Volunteers - Developer of Support Groups. Assesses the needs/concerns of the congregation and facilitates the development of small groups that offer support and education.

·    Health Advocate - The Parish Nurse works with the parishioner, faith community and primary health resources to provide what is in the best interest of the parishioner from a whole person perspective, listening and supporting the parishioner's voice when he/she has difficulty navigating the healthcare system.

The following are just some examples of a parish nurse's activities.

·    Offers presence and prayer during times of crisis and celebration.

·    Encourages individuals toward healthy living through exercise, good nutrition, and spiritual disciplines.

·    Assists Pastors with home, hospital, assisted living, and nursing home visitation as requested.

·    Provides referrals to people for various community resources, such as older adult programs, depression recovery, and Alcoholics Anonymous.

·    Offers support to individuals who are grieving.

·    Coordinates presentations such as stress management, advance directives, various health screenings.

Biblical Resource (1saiah 43: 1-2)

“Do not Fear, for 1 have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. Fear not, for I am with you.”