67. Health As Freedom with HOLO HLTH Owner - Alex Cottingham

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Welcome back to the "Move Your Body Differently" podcast! In this episode, we're excited to have Alex Cottingham join us. Alex was introduced through Alisa Keaton, a significant influence in Shaela Daugherty's journey. Alex runs a CrossFit gym and is deeply involved in integrating fitness with faith.

Guest Background:

• Alex Cottingham, founder of HoloHealth, manages a CrossFit gym and creates faith-based fitness content.
• Holds a Master's in Christian Leadership and an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science.
• Passionate about helping individuals achieve both physical strength and spiritual growth.

What We Discussed:

• Alex's Journey to Fitness and Faith: Insights into how his competitive spirit in high school led him to recognize the advantages of good health habits.
• The Role of Faith in Fitness: How Alex’s spiritual journey influences his approach to fitness, highlighting his education at Liberty University and Dallas Theological Seminary.
• HoloHealth: Alex discusses his digital and physical platforms designed to foster a community that strengthens both body and spirit.
• Family and Fitness: Balancing personal health with family life, emphasizing the importance of setting a healthy example for his children.

Key Insights:

• The connection between physical activities and spiritual openness.
• The importance of community in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Practical tips on creating a health-focused family environment.

Seven Habits for a Truly Healthy Life:

1. Sleep Well: Prioritize 7-9 hours of sleep nightly.
2. Eat Clean: Focus on whole, clean foods.
3. Move Often: Incorporate consistent, foundational physical activities.
4. Increase Clarity: Cultivate self-awareness to understand personal emotions and reactions.
5. Decrease Stress: Implement practical strategies to minimize anxiety and maximize peace.
6. Cultivate Community: Engage deeply with like-minded individuals for support and growth.
7. Embrace Purpose: Live a life beyond oneself, focusing on serving and loving others through improved health.

Nine Markers of True Health:

1. Health is More Than Physical: Includes mental and spiritual wellness.
2. Alignment with God's Design: Health practices should reflect divine intentions.
3. Stewardship: Recognizing the body as a temple to be cared for responsibly.
4. Freedom: Achieving health to reduce unnecessary limitations like stress or illness.
5. Tension Management: Balancing different aspects of health according to current needs.
6. Sustainability: Developing lifelong healthy habits.
7. Holistic Pursuit: Health practices should encompass all areas of life.
8. Health as a Spectrum: Recognizes the seasonal nature of health.
9. Health as a Means to an End: Focusing on health to enhance one’s ability to love and serve others.

Actionable Advice:

• Engage in activities that challenge you physically and open you spiritually.
• Consider how integrating faith into your fitness regimen can enhance both your physical and spiritual well-being.
• Reflect on your health habits and how they align with your spiritual values.

How to Connect with Alex:

• Visit the HoloHealth website for resources on faith-based fitness.
• Join the HoloHealth community for support and guidance in integrating faith with fitness.
• Follow Alex on social media for daily inspiration and health tips. 
  • @holohlth
  • @alex_cottingham_

Alex's unique blend of fitness expertise and spiritual depth provides a fresh perspective on health. His approach encourages listeners to pursue a holistic path to well-being that nourishes both the body and the soul.