What does gratitude have to do with health and fitness? After all, being grateful is hard to do when living in this modern world. Stress encapsulates lives that are always in motion on a never-ending hamster wheel. This time of year is so sad why be grateful, life has been hard. Yes, fitness is a priority, but being grateful not really. Why being grateful matters? Just 15 to 20 seconds a day could enhance lives.

Many scientific studies have been done on the benefits to health and well being just by being grateful. The results are in and yes "Virginia there is a Santa Claus." Being grateful elicits a sense of calmness. People who are grateful tend to be happier and healthier. Good news, being grateful can increase energy levels, enhance the immune system, reduce stress levels and promote heart health. Wow, just 15-20 seconds a day of being grateful has this positive effect on bodies. Life hits all of us hard sometimes. It is hard to pick ourselves up when we've been knocked to our knees. But the studies show overwhelmingly, time and time again people who are grateful even in the midst of hardship are more resilient. They are better able to bounce back and continue to be optimistic. So the age-old wisdom of counting our blessings holds true today.

It's not hard to be grateful. There is always something to be grateful for. Start a gratitude challenge in the new year by writing in a gratitude journal or social media every day something you are grateful for. That's 365 awesome days of being grateful. I am grateful that each of you allows me the opportunity to share my thoughts on health and fitness. Wishing all of you good health and Happy Holidays. For more information about fitness, please contact Kay Colgan, Middleburg Pilates, and Personal Training, 14 S. Madison Street, Middleburg, Va. or call 540-687-6995.