Spirituality of Snowboarding

Anglican priest Neil Elliot is doing a dissertation on the Spirituality of Snowboarding. The unusual title set me to thinking about the theology of the body. In looking at this site by Christopher West, I’m struck by the focus on sexuality. This leaves out issues in mind/body medicine, emotional intelligence, and spirtual teachings in the martial arts. Sports psychlogists and business writers have much more to say about mind body integration. Disciplines that improve it lead to better performance in business and life. If you want to read about body spirituality, forget the theologians and start with Running and Being. Even better, get involved in some activity that requires integration of mind, body, and emotions – golf or piano will do. Then meditate upon the Shema: "Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone! Therefore, you shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words which I enjoin on you today. Drill them into your children. Speak of them at home and abroad, whether you are busy or at rest." Dt.6:4-7.