How to Write a Post-Workout Gratitude Letter

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Time: 5-15 minutes

Materials:

• Piece of paper 

• Pen 

• Willingness to expand your heart 

• Freshwater after your fitness routine 

Intention: To connect and express gratitude for your body.

Your body is a vessel that allows you to experience the sensation of being. 

Oftentimes, we experience pressure on our fitness journey. We might feel disappointed that we aren't as far along as we want to be, skipped a fitness day, or frustrated about not hitting that 10k-a-day step goal. Hyper-fixating on these metrics can distract us from the main purpose of our bodies: to be our home. Forgetting that our body is our ultimate support system can actually take us a step backward, because the truth is, you cannot bully yourself or your body into true self-improvement.

Beyond the beauty metrics, there are trillions of reasons why we can be thankful for our bodies. Think about it, your eyes have tiny functions operating right now that are allowing you to read this article. 

As days go by, we take our limbs, organs, and overall structure for granted because our body supports us automatically. Our brains help us problem solve, empathize, and dream. Our hearts pump blood to our fingertips all the way down to our toes. Our lungs are constantly working to move oxygen in while pushing out dust and other pollutants. The list goes on and on.  

Changing the mindset around fitness from a "should" to a practice of embodiment can bring stillness, awareness of sensations, acceptance, kindness, and intimacy with self. 

Here's a post-fitness journal practice to tap into the state of "being" while cultivating gratitude for your #1 supporter, your body. May this serve as a reminder that you can always return home. 

The How

Grab your paper and pen and title the page “Dear Body.” Begin to write the body of your letter. The key is to be as detailed as possible. 

Here are Prompts to Get You Started

• I am grateful for… 

  • Example: I am grateful for the flexibility of my hips during the circular movements in my stretching exercise. 

• I feel ____ when ____ 

  • Example: I feel the sense of flow when I move my hips in circular motions.

• I noticed when ___  

  • Example: I noticed when I rolled my shoulders, I released tension in that area. 

• I would like to give you a shout-out for (something you may take for granted) 

  • Example: I would like to give you a shout-out for allowing me to feel the sensation of the rise and fall when I inhale and exhale during my workout. 

• Today I accept

  • Examples: I accept your stretch marks, rolls, and all. 

Your Closing

Example: With love and appreciation, your best friend, Jhanelle.

Mindful Tip

After the letter is complete, take time to read it to yourself out loud. Give yourself space and time to feel as you take each word in.