Our bodies and souls are not two separate entities, but a pair that feed and nurture each other. It is always important, from a religious mindset, to remember to not only take care of our souls but to take care of our bodies as well. As we enter the cold season, please take good care of your bodies. Wash your hands, stay home from work if you are sick, and give your bodies the attention they need.
One of our morning prayers, Asher Yaztzar, illustrates why taking care of the body is so important:
"Blessed are You, Adonai, our God, Ruler of the universe, Who formed humans with wisdom and created within them many openings and many hollow spaces. It is obvious and known before Your Seat of Honor that if even one of them would be opened, or if even one of them would be sealed, it would be impossible to survive and to stand before You even for one hour. Blessed are You, Adonai, Who heals all flesh and acts wondrously."
If you are sick you cannot pray. If you cannot pray you cannot take care of your soul. If you cannot take care of your soul you cannot do the sacred work of being partners with God in creation. Therefore, please take extra care of your bodies, for the sake of your soul.
