Introduction:
Healthy living, as understood within the biblical context, encompasses physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. The Bible provides guidance on maintaining a balanced life that honors God through stewardship of the body, mind, and spirit. This entry explores biblical principles related to health, diet, exercise, rest, and spiritual wellness.

Biblical Principles of Health:

1. The Body as a Temple:
The Bible emphasizes the sanctity of the human body, which is considered a temple of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , Paul writes, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." This passage underscores the importance of treating the body with respect and care, as it is a vessel for God's presence.

2. Diet and Nutrition:
Scripture provides insights into dietary practices that promote health. In Genesis 1:29 , God says, "Behold, I have given you every seed-bearing plant on the face of all the earth and every tree whose fruit contains seed. They will be yours for food." This suggests a diet rich in natural, plant-based foods. Additionally, the dietary laws in Leviticus 11 offer guidelines on clean and unclean foods, reflecting an early understanding of health and hygiene.

3. Exercise and Physical Activity:
While the Bible does not explicitly mention exercise, it does highlight the value of physical labor and activity. Proverbs 31:17 describes the virtuous woman: "She girds herself with strength and shows that her arms are strong." This implies the importance of maintaining physical strength and vitality through active living.

4. Rest and Sabbath:
Rest is a crucial component of healthy living, as demonstrated by the institution of the Sabbath. In Exodus 20:8-10 , God commands, "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God." The Sabbath provides a rhythm of work and rest, allowing for physical rejuvenation and spiritual reflection.

5. Emotional and Mental Health:
The Bible addresses emotional well-being, encouraging believers to cast their anxieties on God. Philippians 4:6-7 advises, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This passage highlights the importance of prayer and trust in God for mental peace.

6. Spiritual Health:
Spiritual well-being is foundational to healthy living. Jesus emphasizes the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37-39 : "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" A life centered on love for God and others fosters spiritual health and holistic well-being.

Conclusion:
The Bible offers a comprehensive framework for healthy living that integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. By adhering to biblical principles, individuals can cultivate a lifestyle that honors God and promotes overall well-being.