On June 7, 1948, as Babe Ruth walks to home plate for the last time, he carries not a bat, but a book. Surprisingly thin, the  Yankee Great slips a leather-bound copy of The Babe Ruth Story into the hands of Yale's team captain and first baseman, George H. W. Bush. Still in love with the game, the beloved slugger lingers after the ceremony to watch Bush knock a double, as Yale drubs Princeton 14-2.

Now in 2006, as we watch rumor-laden Barry Bonds pass the Babe on the all-time home run list, people offer a grimaced smile: “. . . but the Babe didn't use steroids; he did it the natural way!” The natural way, the way God made us—to honor that trinity of nutrition, exercise, and rest. It's almost spiritual.

New research shows that exercise might have a spiritual dimension. For people who exercise vigorously, there can be a feel-good effect, fresh energy, and a kind of mild euphoria. This buzz comes from chemical compounds that flood the bloodstream and affect the brain—almost like a chocolate high, minus the calories!

Exercise, it seems, can be a good way to re-set our mood. That's why some people—when they're down or worried—take a brisk walk or hop on a bike or go for a swim.

An exercise lifestyle appears to work for people of any age. Young people, the studies show, are less at risk for boredom and drug abuse if they join into routine physical activity. As teens play volleyball or link up with a hiking club, their structured recreation helps boost their psychological well-being.

It is not surprising, then, for us to read the Jewish scriptures and find ourselves admiring Elijah. That prophet, more than 30 centuries ago, runs 17 miles in his contest against spiritual darkness.

Similarly in the Christian writings, we find ourselves rooting for Paul, as he gives a ring-side view of a boxing match. This apostle describes the gloved competition to portray spiritual success to his ancient readers.