Life is full of challenges, nothing new about that. What happens though, when you are under constant stress or if you reach a point where you lose your ability to adapt to stress. It can begin to negatively affect many systems in the body contributing to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, immune system problems and musculoskeletal pain.

The Pilates method of exercise is a successful tool to use for care and self management of the bodies reaction to  stress and can play a major role in your wellness program.

There are several Pilates Principles one of which is to focus on your breath. Deep full breathing is so very beneficial, it sends much needed oxygen to your muscles,  it can also aid in balancing the PH level in the blood, a more balanced PH is a healthier state for the body. Another principle is relaxation, a difficult concept to grasp for many that have performed other fitness regimens. Through Pilates one learns selective relaxation of muscles, only use the ones needed and relax the ones not required for the task at hand. You begin to develop focus and clarity as a result. Concentration is the next principle and is a result of the breath combined with the relaxation and control of your muscles.

Once your learn the various movements you develop a rhythm and flow to the session. As your instructor talks you through the exercises, your mind gets in tune with your body and everything else pressing on your mind falls away.

It amazes to see my clients relax just and  begin to breath a sign of relief the minute they walk through the door. They know that that the session is their time to tune in to their bodies, focus, breath and let everything else melt away. They leave feeling balanced, energized, stronger and with a general feeling of being able to cope just a little better.