January: the month when millions of people get serious about their health and make the decision to eat better and exercise more. Even if those resolutions aren’t long-lived, there is no denying that the new year offers a nice opportunity for a new start. What better time, then, for the release of Joyce Meyer’s latest book, GOOD HEALTH, GOOD LIFE? Derived from material taken from her book LOOK GREAT, FEEL GREAT, this smaller and more condensed version is the perfect size to fit in your purse or the glove compartment of your car and pull out when you need a bit of encouragement, motivation and helpful tips to keep you on track.

The subtitle of GOOD HEALTH, GOOD LIFE is “12 Keys to Enjoying Physical and Spiritual Wellness.” As many previous Godly health books have done, this one combines applying our own personal discipline with understanding that we can’t do it alone. Relying on God to help us get a handle on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle --- in body, soul and spirit --- is the key to our success.

"Much of the information you’ll find in this book you may have heard or read before, but Meyer presents the material in a way that could make you think about health differently."

Meyer begins with an introductory pep talk of sorts, to remind readers of their value. God adores us, even if we’re five sizes too large, out of shape, or in poor condition. But we don’t have to stay that way. As Meyer has been known to quote, “God loves us the way we are, but He loves us too much to leave us that way.” Also, at the beginning of the book is a brief summary of how to use the guide most effectively. Although each “key” can be read and practiced at any time, Meyer suggests reading them in order, as each chapter builds from the one before it.

The 12-key plan consists of the following:

1. Get God’s Help
2. Learn to Love Your Body
3.  Master Your Metabolism
4.  Exercise
5. Eat in Balanced Ways
6. Water Your Life
7. Be Mindful About Eating
8. Curb Your Spiritual Hunger
9. De-Stress
10. Live with the Right Vision
11. Make it Easy
12. .Take Responsibility

Each key contains many wonderful insights, which isn’t surprising coming from this New York Times bestselling author and sought-after evangelist. Meyer uses examples from her own life and shares the lessons she’s learned over the years. There are plenty of scriptures to meditate on, as well as the expected motivational and inspirational takeaways.

Much of the information you’ll find in this book you may have heard or read before, but Meyer presents the material in a way that could make you think about health differently. She offers plenty of simply stated medical facts and practical tips that are easy to implement. These are set apart with numbers or bullet points so they’re easy to find within the pages if you’re searching for a specific section. She includes lists like “5 Ways to De-Stress,” “5 Ways to Develop Right Vision,” “Favorite Ways to Relax,” “5 Ways to Nourish Your Spirit” and more --- nothing complex, but all sensible and highly achievable.

At the end of the book, there is also an interactive section on your personal keys to good health, as well as a Daily Checklist for Good Health.

If you want a complete and thorough teaching on health, you might want to pick up a copy of Meyer’s previous book, LOOK GREAT, FEEL GREAT. But if you’re looking for a quick and simple guide, this supplemental version is the perfect choice for the basic steps you need to take on your way to better health that will hopefully last far into the new year and beyond.