Women’s Bible study to connect physical and spiritual health


“ Body Surprised!” is an eight-week women’s Bible study connecting physical and spiritual health, hosted by The Bridge Church, 999 Rancho Conejo Blvd., Newbury Park.

The class starts Wed., Jan. 22 at 7 p.m.

The group facilitator is Lisa Sechler. Encouraging people to make healthy choices because of their value to God, their families and their communities has been Sechler’s long-term mission.

She started writing what became “Body Surprised!” 35 years ago and has facilitated over 40 different Bible study groups in five states and several online.

“I started writing the Bible study as part of a praise aerobics class and as a way to share God’s love for us that might get peoples’ attention. I think God saw the health emergency ahead. You and I are God’s creation. ‘Body Surprised!’ is available to encourage and motivate those who want to make a godly changes in their lives to protect God’s wonderful creation,” Sechler said.

In the class, individuals choose their own eating and exercise plans. The study book offers daily biblical inspiration and direction to stick with the plans.

“We keep the weekly meetings fun and supportive. Everyone gets lots of prayer,” said Sechler.

Sechler also speaks to women’s groups about health challenges including cravings, willpower, self-value and self-protection.

For the class, the cost of the Bible study book is $16. To motivate attendance, an additional $10 will be requested. One dollar will be returned each of the first seven weeks participants attend; $2 will be returned for attending the final week of the study.

“We want participants to succeed in their efforts to get healthy. Attending the eight weekly meetings will help them to reach their healthy goals,” said Sechler.

A leader’s guide to “Body Surprised!” is available for those who would like to start and facilitate their own study group.

For more about the Bible study, go to bodydesigned.com.

For information about the Newbury Park study group, to sign-up for the study, or to purchase study books separate from the group study, e-mail info@bodydesigned.com.