Why Pilates?

Pilates addresses improved postural alignment, joint mobility, and strength.  It is a low impact form of exercise and can be modified for all body types and fitness levels.  It is a great adjunct to any workout routine you currently participate in or a great form of exercise to start with if you are new to exercising.  

I personally started getting into Pilates because I liked the whole-body approach it entailed, improving the mind and body connection. I think Pilates is a nice adjunct to my treatment style for that reason.  Pilates made me recognize a lot about my own body, noticing where my proprioceptive feedback was lacking. Proprioception is a sense of self movement.  Many people struggle with “good” postural alignment and tend to overcompensate resulting in joint and tissue irritation.  Pilates helps to restore optimal movement patterns.

One of the biggest “ah ha” moments I have seen with my patients and clients is the awareness of how they breathe. Many of my patients have told me that I taught them how to breathe again! A lot of people are shallow breathers, which overtime can lead to increased tightness in neck and shoulders and/or restrictions in their ribcage and thoracic spine, which result in restricted mobility with functional activities. 

 It is time to get in-tune with your own body and appreciate its strengths and limitations.  Be proactive; make positive changes for your mind and body!