5 Things Pilates Makes Me Grateful For

5 things Pilates makes me grateful for.
1. Freedom to move my body how I like. There are so many articles about the epidemic of chronic pain in the US. Hundreds of thousands of people have uncontrolled chronic pain: back, neck, and shoulder pain are the most common. And while I certainly get a few random aches more now than when I was younger, I live a relatively pain free existence.

I also understand some sources of pain cannot be avoided. Earlier this year, I was involved in a major car accident traveling at high speeds when another motorist lost control of his car, totaling my car and leaving me with lingering neck, hip and back pain. The next day, I went directly to the studio to work on the Spine Corrector and by day 3 I could move my previously locked neck freely. By day 5 of gentle movement and release Pilates, I was as good as new. I know that #1: My injuries could have been much worse if I didn’t have the automatic reaction to brace my core at impact instilled into my body. #2: The practice of Pilates is to thank for a quick and safe recovery. .

2. The wisdom of my core. Yes, Pilates focuses on our physical core, our Center, but it’s also so much more than that. It’s a mind/body exercise. We use the mind, focus the mind, in concert with the body. In doing so, it's a method of mindfulness. I’m grateful for the way that Pilates brings me back to myself, to peace, to my center.

3. The opportunity to connect with others. My love of helping others led me to this studio and gave me the opportunity to share my passion of mindful movement with so many other people. It’s such a blessing to see the way Pilates touches so many lives physically, mentally and emotionally. I have developed many close friendships in the studio, both with clients and other instructors. I am grateful for our Pilates family!

4. A new challenge around every corner. The challenges of being a small business owner are real. There have been obstacles and challenges. But each one of these challenges, I can count a thousand blessings. I especially love the challenge of teaching so many different bodies. Each person comes with their unique physical needs and perspectives. There is never a dull moment! Every session I teach is different, and I love working “the puzzle” to help people feel their best. I consider it a privilege to serve our community in this way.

5. The gift of being able to tune into what my body is telling me. In Pilates , we are always encouraged to tune within. To focus our minds on the minute movements of our body. This skill, both on and off the mats, has allowed me to really tune into and understand the small and big things that my body is telling me. And our clients would concur. I have a goal for every client that steps into my studio: “That they take what they learn here out there”. Moving with intention and mindfulness in the liturgy of our everyday lives will keep our bodies strong and functional. When we listen to our bodies and give them what they truly need-- physically, nutritionally, spiritually--everything else falls into place.