Connecting mind, body, and spirit.
Discover how the Pilates method can transform your world.
Change happens through movement and movement heals.
- Joseph Pilates
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise, developed by Joseph Pilates, a German Physical Trainer born in the 1800’s. Joseph Pilates suffered from numerous health ailments over the course of his life, many of which he was born with. Little is known of his early life but what we do know is that from his sheer determination to overcome his ailments, the Pilates method was born.
The Pilates method combines specific movement patterns in co-ordination with precise breathing techniques. The movements focus on stretching and strengthening the whole body to improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility and good posture. The exercises are designed to tone and strengthen muscles without adding bulk. As Pilates is such a balanced form of exercise, no part of the body is worked more than the other; you will become well balanced and efficient with every movement you make.
Pilates is a world-wide phenomenon and is most common in the United Kingdom, America, Canada and Australia. Many people find solace in the Pilates method, if you want to find out more get in touch with me via my contact page on this website.
Explore the six core principles that were developed by Joseph Pilates himself.
The wonderful thing about Pilates is that is doesn’t just focus on the physical body. The mind is equally as important to the physical body when practicing Pilates. Even though the Pilates method has evolved quite dramatically over the years, the underlying philosophy is still rooted in the original movement patterns.
Concentration in Pilates can be thought as the conscious control over the muscles in our body. It helps us to make sure we stay safe through each exercise, preventing injury. It helps us to build awareness of our body, what feels too much and what feels comfortable.
Concentration
Breathing
Pilates helps us to become aware of our breath and teaches us to use it with intention and purpose. Believe it or not, the way we breathe influences the way we move! The powerful, yet gentle breathing techniques used in Pilates can help engage specific muscles at the right time.
Centring
Centring is the relationship between mind and body. Centring is focused around the core, or ‘powerhouse’ of the body, where all movement emanates from. Learning how to find your centre means you can further establish the connection between your mind and body.
Flowing Movement
The ultimate goal. Flowing movement. Pilates encourages us to move with fluidity even through the most complex of movements, both on and off the mat. By learning how to embody the flow of movement we can go about our day to day life with ease and efficiency.
Alignment
Pilates specifically draws together breathing techniques and movement. The go together like two peas in a pod. Mastering the coordination between these two helps us to get the ultimate benefit from each exercise. Coordination is especially important when we work on our balance.
Coordination
Do you have poor posture? Pilates teaches us to achieve neutral alignment throughout the body. When we have ‘good’ posture, unnecessary strain can be lifted from specific parts of our body, especially the joints. Pilates can help us to recognise when our body is in alignment when we are standing, sitting or moving.
