I AM IN LOOOOVE 💕
No, seriously.
People talk about love at first sight, but have you experienced love at first listen? Oh, it’s definitely a thing! The Happy Cell Song captured my heart within seconds of hearing recording artist and social-emotional healing practitioner Karega Bailey and his kiddos belt out the words on IG. Shout out to Jared Burch of Burch Bear Holistic Care for inviting the internet on a 30-day cell-affirming challenge!
Every single cell inside my body,
Every single cell is happy and well
Every single cell inside my body,
Every single cell is happy and well
I’m so glad, every single cell
In my body is happy and well
I’m so glad, every single cell
In my body is happy and well
Whether spoken or sung, words have power. They are impactful. Declaring that every single cell inside my body is happy and well is more than an affirmation to me. It’s a call to accountability. Our cells are divinely designed to thrive. However, their ability to do so depends on how we care for our bodies at the cellular level. I’ve already confessed to being a science kid at heart. I know how cells function, but knowing isn’t enough. If I truly desire to be well, I have to care for my cells well, starting with lovin’ on my mitochondria. Stick with me. We’re going somewhere…
Mitochondria and our metabolism go together…real bad. You may remember learning that these small but mighty organelles are the powerhouses of our cells. They convert nutrients from food into a form of chemical energy known as adenosine triphosphate, aka ATP. Their role doesn’t end there.
Mitochondria don’t just make energy. They act as a sort of antenna to link your psychological experiences to your organ health, your rate of aging, and your sense of vigor, meaning your mental energy.
Improve Energy & Longevity by Optimizing Mitochondria - The Huberman Lab with Dr. Martin Picard
The well-being of our mitochondria has body and soul implications. Our vitality - from physical movement to metabolic functioning and emotional health - is dependent on their vitality. Mitochondria rely on us to properly fuel them so they can properly fuel us. Ya know, circle-of-life type stuff.
Groups of healthy, energized cells that can carry out all their duties become healthy organs that carry out their jobs. Every cell has the blueprint it needs to work; it simply needs the resources. But when mitochondria don’t have the right conditions, or they get inundated with the wrong materials in the wrong amounts, they don’t produce enough ATP for the cells to do their jobs.
Good Energy by Casey Means, MD
Malfunctioning mitochondria impact every organ and system in our body. Our endocrine system doesn’t get a pass. Our digestive system doesn’t get a pass. Our reproductive health? Yep! Mitochondria play a role there too! Throw the heart, brain, kidneys, and every other organ in the mix also! Simply put: MITOCHONDRIA MATTER.
Stewardship is the responsible management, oversight, and protection of something entrusted to one’s care.
19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.
I Corinthians 6:19-19, NIV
Before the Pharisees come for me, hear me out. Yes, in context, this passage refers to fleeing from sexual immorality. Got it. Annnnd honoring our bodies as the temple of the living God also includes properly fueling our bodies (and cells) as unto the Lord. Actively (not perfectly/legalistically) practicing wellness is a facet of worship. That includes stewarding our cells.
CELLULAR STEWARDSHIP
Cared-for cells are happy cells. Here are a few quick tips for managing our mitochondria, ensuring that every single cell inside your body is happy and well:
Food is Fuel - Before we think of food as comforting or celebratory, we should first consider that its primary role is to supply our cells with nutrients for functioning optimally. (By “we”, I mean me. This is my struggle.) Ask yourself, “Am I eating to fuel or consuming to soothe?”
Move with Intention - A friend once told me that there is a whole lot of space between all and nothing. He was right. You don’t have to be into CrossFit or miles-long runs! Brisk walking is movement. Cardio drumming is movement. Chair aerobics is movement! Find your flow, and the joy of movement will meet you there.
Reframe Rest - Rest is more than sleep, although good sleep is critical. Rest is also allowing ourselves to slow down, breathe deeply, and be present. Those dishes and that laundry can wait. I promise you it’ll be there tomorrow. Rest isn’t a reward; it is just as much of a necessity as your next breath. Treat it as such.
LET'S REFLECT
5 Get wisdom, get understanding;
do not forget my words or turn away from them.
6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
love her, and she will watch over you.
Proverbs 4:5-6, NIV
Grab your journal, get cozy in a quiet corner, and allow Holy Spirit to reveal:
How He is calling you deeper into His presence and further into discipline/self-control
The wisdom He is imparting to you about stewarding wellness in this season
Sincerely,
LaToya NaShae
An important reminder! 💚 Our bodies are wonderfully designed, and how we nourish and care for them matters so much. I'm learning more and more that true wellness begins with what’s happening within. Thank you for sharing!