Relief Society President Extolls Virtues of Word of Wisdom in Healthy Lifestyle

Back in 1978, Barbara B. Smith, President of the Relief Society, spoke about the merits of abiding by the Word of Wisdom in her talk, "Good Health-- A Key to Joyous Living."  To read the whole talk, click here:  Good Health-- A Key to Joyous Living

She outlines some of the benefits of living the Word of Wisdom, adding that exercise and other good habits will give us the good health we want.  She even encourages going to bed early and arising early, citing scriptures. Her suggestions are valid and applicable today if we are to avoid extremes in current fad diets.   She concludes with the following statement:

"Our physical health goals should be---
1.  To obey the Word of Wisdom;
2.  To maintain proper weight and endurance through regular exercise, adequate rest, and a balanced diet;
3.  To improve or maintain personal and home sanitation;
4.  To practice preventative measures to preserve good health;
5.  To learn and practice home health skills.
May the application of these principles help each of us live joyously..."

Although this talk was given decades ago, it is sound advice.  We can all do this and improve our health.  It may take some time to adapt, but we can do it.

Barbara lived to be 88 years old.  Certainly she set a good example for us all and lived her own advice.

Photo courtesy of Deseret News.