A Season of Gratitude

The months of November and December are chock full of parties, friends, family, Thanksgiving and Holiday festivities which are an integral part of our lives. It is also a time for reflection and gratitude. Of course, we are grateful for our families, friends, careers, businesses that make our local community livable and enjoyable and countless other blessings. However, it is also a time to be grateful for our workouts.

Working out with a heart and mind full of gratitude, not only allows us to embrace the miracle of our human bodies, but to marvel at the connection between the mind and body. One of the primary reasons that I chose health and fitness as a career path is how fascinating it is that our minds and bodies are inextricably linked and how that link allows us to perform amazing feats throughout our lives.

This holiday season, three suggestions are specifically featured highlighting the concept of a “season of gratitude.” Please take a moment to choose one, or all three, to include in this beautiful time of year while in the studio and out in the amazing home we call Colorado. As always, prior to beginning any exercise program, please consult your physician.

Season of Gratitude Suggestion #1 – As you prepare for your workouts this season, take a moment, even on those more challenging days, to be grateful you are able to work out regularly. Even the small aspects of preparation for your workout, such as laying out your attire for the workout the night before, packing up your gym bag so you are organized with your workout shoes, gloves, and water bottle, has a profound impact on your commitment to your workout experience, consequently, do so with gratitude. Then, grab your workout gear and walk through the studio threshold.

Season of Gratitude Suggestion #2 – Once you are at the studio, be grateful that you have a wonderful group of folks to workout with throughout the year. The socialization aspect of working out together is incredibly empowering and satisfying. So many of you make connections and friendships that last a lifetime here at the studio, which is an expansion of your social life that includes those individuals who also value their workouts. The positive energy that is exchanged between us is powerful.

Season of Gratitude Suggestion #3 – During your workout, as you begin to fatigue, embrace those feelings as your body responds to your dedication to your workouts. Our bodies are perfectly designed for movement. The consistency of your workouts pays huge dividends both mentally and physically and the fatigue you experience is part of that process. The fatigue will pass, but the benefits last throughout your day. The mind and body are pleased with your dedication, this leads to patting yourself on the back, then you pass those feelings of satisfaction, and completion on to everyone in your path that day and beyond. And that is gratitude at work!

By: Jackie Wright, Owner/Manager Lakewood Fitness