There are a wide variety of well known benefits of engaging in regular Pilates practice. But I’m not going to talk about that today, there are some other benefits that “move” you on a deeper level that don’t often get talked about.
Here are a few of my favourite things
- Pilates is life
Joseph Pilates said “Breath is the first act of life and the last”. To “notice” your breath in the first place is something that we rarely do as we are always on the go. Breathing is a tool that inhibits circumnavigation from what’s really going on in your body and mind. Breathing deeply as you move exercises your lungs, injects your blood with life, creates a focus that helps you turn inward and away from today’s modern and constant distractions. Once a client has got the choreography I encourage them to move through with their breath and look toward the length of the breath and the length of the movement to match, creating harmony and focus within. I use my Pilates time as a metaphor for life. Move through the tough bits with breath to create a sense of ease and harmony when the waters get rough. It’s a lifeline.
Pilates is life.
- Movement Heals.
Joseph Pilates said ” Change happens through movement, and movement heals”.I’ve seen it and I’ve felt it. When we begin our movement journey for the first time or, get back into it, many things may come up. Our emotions are stored within our bodies through our nervous system and fascia. Slowing our nervous system down and releasing our fascia through movement can bring old trauma both the physical and the emotional kind, right up to the surface. It is only with recognition that we can begin to heal these old wounds. Patterns of “holding on” through our bodies exist often because we are afraid to show our vulnerability. We brace and keep trudging on regardless. Movement brings forth our vulnerability and highlights to us what we have not yet dealt with. Sometimes breath and movement is all you need and things can pass quite quickly but of course talking to a professional about it (phycologist or a counsellor) will deepen your experience of literally “letting go”.
Movement Heals. - Pilates makes you happy.
Joseph Pilates said “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness”.I have never felt sad after a session. Have you? Once you have “moved through” the old stuff you come out the other side a happier person. Even whilst moving through it no matter how tough you always feel better and happier after a session. Being with other people in a group environment or with your instructor one on one, where you share a lovely movement experience, whether you’re at beginner level or advanced, brings you joy. The sense of belonging and community alone in a studio is enough to bring a smile to your face. The feeling of improved posture, greater understanding of how your body works, strength through your core and freedom through your joints leaves you feeling pretty darn good about life.
Pilates makes you happy.
As I said these are “A few of my favourite things” about Pilates 🙂 What does Pilates do for you? Or what can Pilates do for you?
Melissa x
