Vol. 1 No. 1, February 2022

Exercise Prescription for the Health and Wellness of the Clergy

Dominic Olufunmilola Leah

Abstract

The clergy have special responsibilities that help to sustain and, in some cases, alleviate their congregation’s personal and social burdens. Due to localised repetitive movements and static postures of sitting, hunching, or standing, they are frequently exposed to prolonged stressfulness. These may result in musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and mental health issues (such as anxiety and depression). This population is at risk of being overlooked because they are generally thought to be spiritually endowed. Specific exercises have been recommended to promote physiological functions such as flexibility, muscular strength, and cardiovascular health, as well as to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal pains associated with various occupations. As a result, the goal of this review is to highlight the risks associated with the nature of physical activity to which the clergy are exposed and to prescribe exercises to promote their health and wellness.

Keywords

clergy, spiritual exercise, health, emotional, prescription

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