In fact, I have found spirituality and prayer to be the driving force behind my improved eating habits. As Kristine Holmes in the article “A Spiritual Way of Eating” says, “The state of one’s mind has been proven to create conditions in the body.” Holmes concludes with, “Is it such a big step to realize that when our bodies and minds are functioning well and feeling good, that it will have a naturally positive effect…?”
In the Bible, Jesus advises, "take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink. …Is not the life more than meat…?" (Matt. 6:25) A "fat tax" seems to be emphasizing the wrong part of the health formula.
It’s interesting to note that some scientific research and biblical admonitions advise not to make food the focus in mind-body workings.
I have found a sense of spirituality creates a perspective that’s not easily thrown off balance during day-to-day stressful decision-making situations. In my professional work, I was involved in many situations that were beyond my personal control – such as during desegregation and forced busing. Yet I was able to maintain balanced personal and professional behavior. My external environmental conditions didn’t negatively affect my internal reactions and my eating habits and weight did not change as a result of these pressures.
Food may not be the culprit that needs addressing – food only has the power over us that we give it. We may find that an understanding of our spirituality can free us from an unnecessary emphasis on food, and give us a basis for self-control.
Article comments
1 - Dr. Joseph S. Maresca
Tax the triple-burger at a high rate.
2 - Don Ingwerson
Dr. Maresca, thanks for your comment.I take it you feel the triple burger is the big problem.