Return to Life was the title of the book that Joseph Pilates wrote.
Joseph Pilates was a man well ahead of his time. His philosophy “Whole-body health, whole-body commitment and breath” was simple and in line with where the fitness industry is VERY slowly heading.
He didn’t promote getting a “bikini body” for summer or losing weight fast with a magic pill or potion. And he certainly didn’t want you to “create a new you in the new year”. Just simple ongoing, “whole-body health”.
A work in progress.
An ongoing act of balancing not balance (read about my ideas on that here)
Here is his philosophy in more detail
1. Whole Body Health
Whole Body health refers to unifying the body, mind and spirit. In his book “Return To life” he wrote ” This can be achieved through exercise, a good healthy diet, relaxation, sunshine and fresh air. A balance of work, recreation and relaxation.
2. Whole Body Commitment
This is the mental and physical commitment you make to yourself to assume the lifestyle that is necessary to achieve “Whole Body Health”.
3. Breath
He was quoted to once have said “Above all, learn how to breathe properly” By this he meant to fully inhale and exhale. Correct breathing patterns assist movement and relieve tension held in the body. The oxygen-rich blood then allows the circulatory system to nourish the body and tissues while removing toxins. He calls it the “internal shower”. This results in mental and physical invigoration and rejuvenation. In the mindfulness sphere, the breath is used as an anchor to the present. A useful tool in times of stress.
2020 Return to Life is about empowerment and ownership of how you want these next few weeks to go as the year comes to a close.
It’s about feeling stronger, moving better, breathing deeply and, imprinting the Pilates and mindfulness philosophies so that in the most stressful of times you will in instinctively go into stop, feel and breath mode instead of panic, freeze and fight mode. Know what I mean? 😉
These classes are for all levels as I consistently give cues as we move, and I watch you as you do it. Plus, it will be fun!
