by Linda Townsend

It’s that time of year where we all review the things in our lives that make use feel thankful.

Personally, I am thankful for the opportunity I’ve been given to live out my dream of building a holistic wellness center that is focused on helping everyone to find a path to pursuing their own self-care, and for the team of people who helped me build and fulfill my vision. I’m also thankful for our amazing members and guests, and for the unbelievable team here that brings the magic to our guests every day. And of course, I’m thankful for my family and friends, and all of the other blessings in my life.

You likely have a similar list. But have you taken a moment to be thankful for your body, and all the amazing things it can do? In the seasonal spirit of sharing, I’d like to tell you the five reasons I am thankful for my body – and encourage you to take five minutes to come up with your own list!

My body has always been there for me.

The first responsibility I was ever given was the one to my own health. I’ve learned to eat right, move my body, and take care of it. And in return, my body is always there for me. When I wake up in the morning; when I go to sleep at night; when I want to move and enjoy the world, my body is always there. It is my first, last and constant companion.

My body allows me to do the things that I love the most.

I can run, stretch, dance, hug the people I love – all because my body allows me to do so. I can taste amazing food, experience a true belly laugh, and spend time with friends, all because my body helps me partake in those moments. How could I not be thankful for that?

My body has helped facilitate some of my most important relationships.

My smile has helped me meet new friends. My eyes have helped me see the true nature of the people who are closest to me. My hands have allowed me to greet important personal and professional contacts.

My body has taught me about the power of healing

The human body is amazing! We recover from illnesses. Broken bones and cuts heal. Observing my body’s powers of self-healing has inspired me to focus on my health and healing – no matter what situation I find myself facing.

My body has taught me about making good choices – and that has improved my life!

Everything in life is a choice. You can choose to eat healthy foods, or you can choose less healthy items. You can choose to stay active, or you can choose a sedentary lifestyle. You can choose to be happy, or you can choose to be angry. Learning to make good choices for my body has taught me to make good choices in my life. And as my health improves, so does my happiness!