Letter from the Editor: Bodies by Boston 2012

In "Bodies by Boston", Miles Howard starts off by reminding us that "every body tells a story." Here's mine: once upon a time, I went to the gym daily and practiced hot yoga three times a week. I loved it. When I felt physically strong, I felt able to tackle any mental or emotional weight placed upon me. And the practice of embracing meditative stillness on a slippery, sweaty mat taught me to stay calm amid life's inevitable chaos. (Plus, I was suddenly able to do weird bendy things that made for great party tricks.) But sometime over the last year, my routine fell off my radar. An especially busy work schedule and a lot of late nights meant that something had to go - and it wound up being my body. I gained a couple of pounds, lost a little self-confidence, and felt my normally strong sense of self-discipline dwindle. (Boo, hiss.) Does this sound familiar to anyone else?

No, you can't judge a book by its cover. But at the same time, our bodies often reflect the stories transpiring inside: our lifestyles, states of mind, and passions. I think the profiles in "Bodies by Boston" capture that idea well. All the folks featured are in fantastic physical shape - but they all bring different perspectives on fitness born of their unique personalities, from a buff rock climber who helps teens overcome trauma to a chef with a history in Hollywood stunt work. Of course, sometimes our bodies tell our stories in a much more literal way. So for "Boston, Ink.", we asked a few locals - from salon stylists to a hip-hop musician - to share the motivation behind an especially meaningful tattoo. Each reveals an event or interest that has had an indelible impact.

Whether you're inspired by adversity overcome or just by someone's ability to hit the gym with impressive regularity, I hope that these profiles pump up a healthy respect for your own body. You only have one, after all. So whether you'd rather focus on training it to peak performance or adorning it to reflect your individuality, make it one you're proud to call your own. As for me? I think it's time I attended to a squeaky treadmill that's been calling my name.