To say this is an “ode” may be an overstatement as poetic ability is not something I possess… yet. With that said, I’ve decided it’s time I show this body of mine some gratitude. Perhaps you’ll want to write a letter to your body too. Here goes:

Dear body,

I’ve been meaning to write you for a while now.

To slow down long enough to say what I so often forget to: thank you.

You and I have been together for 60 years now — six decades of adventures, laughter, love, challenges, and growth. And even though we’re currently navigating a rough patch — with pain showing up uninvited, testing both my patience and my spirit — I want you to know something: I hear you, appreciate you, and I love you. 

I’m sorry for the times I’ve been impatient or unkind. For pushing you too hard, ignoring your signals (At times you’ve even yelled them at me, and I didn’t listen!), and judging you against impossible standards. For wishing you looked or felt different instead of honoring how much you’ve done for me.

And yet, even through my neglect and criticism, you’ve continued to show up — every single day. You’ve carried me through this incredible life, allowing me to experience all that I cherish. You’ve birthed three incredible humans and fed them with your milk. And when times have been tough, you’ve kept going, which reminds me, I can too.

You are, and have always been, my constant companion through it all — the joyful, the messy, the amazing.

Thank you for being my safe harbor, my teacher and my home.

I promise to do better by you.

I will listen more and push less.
I will rest when you need rest.
I will move because it feels good.
I will feed you with nourishment, not guilt.
I will tap in and seek your counsel. There is so much that you know.
I will speak to you with kindness.
I will treat you as someone who needs and deserves patience and love.
And I will appreciate all you continue to do for me. 

Back to you…

I hope you, too, take a moment to thank your body today. Place your hand over your heart and whisper your own words of gratitude.

Your body has been your most loyal companion — It deserves your kindness.

Maybe even write your own letter. To speak to your body as you would a dear friend.

Apologize if you need to. Forgive if you can. And most of all, say thank you.