As we begin 2025 I'm reflecting on my evolving relationship with my approach to Pilates. My practice began nearly 40 years ago as a dancer looking for full body strengthening and to avoid injuries. Today, my personal practice looks very different than when I was 21. Although I've gone through years where I might have taken months off (ie. the exhaustion of raising babies) all of these phases have served as a reminder that change is inevitable, and sometimes it's the changes themselves that offer new growth and understanding.
Now when I travel, I take as many Pilates classes as I possibly can. I've met innovative teachers from around the world and we usually end up having an enlightening conversation at the end of class. We discuss the Why's, and How's and the changing landscape of teaching this movement method. I am able to gain new insight and exposure to other movement modalities and share that with you.
In all the years I've been coming to my mat, I've learned to be kinder to myself and respect when my energy is low. Some days that might be a few "roll-ups", but most importantly I'm showing up for myself in a way that feels nourishing and not harmful. Pilates is a way for me to move my body in a manner where I feel capable and strong - physically and emotionally, and I feel fortunate that I teach in a studio space without mirrors.
Knowing how our bodies feel when they are aligned and checking in, without the use of mirrors, is beneficial to us in the long run. There is no room for judgement, comparison or negative self-talk. If I'm teaching in a studio with mirrors, I most often ask the participants to join me to face a different direction.
Our bodies have carried us through so much in our lives; ie. injuries, pregnancy /childbirth, illness, etc. and we're all still moving, still adapting, and still capable of doing the sports or activities that fuel our body and soul.
My teaching has also evolved alongside my personal practice. Mobility, balance and functional strengthening exercises have been highlighted more in class and adaptations are more readily available to those managing an injury/post surgery. What hasn't evolved - my belief in practicing a tried and true method of full body strengthening and my desire
to share the benefits with YOU
REMINDER: BRING A FRIEND FOR FREE to Pilates 101 on Thursday, January 23 6-7PM. Please register as you normally would and reach out to me at CHPilatesYYC@gmail.com to let me know you're bringing a +1.
Yours in health and wellness,
Christy
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