As Pilates teachers, we often hear, "That exercise required so much concentration," and each time we hear it, it makes our day. This is because moving your body is deeply rooted in your brain's cognitive processes. When you concentrate, you're not just thinking about the movement; you're engaging in a complex neurological dialogue between your brain and your body. This engagement is the essence of creating new movement patterns and strengthening your mind-body connection. You may have read that buzzword before; it’s very trendy, but for good reason!
What exactly is the mind-body connection, and why does it matter? Scientifically speaking, it's the bidirectional communication between your mental and physical states. Sounds fancy, huh? Basically, when you focus deeply during Pilates, you activate specific neural pathways, enhancing proprioception—the awareness of your body's position in space. This isn't just about better movement; it's about your brain sculpting neural pathways that improve coordination, reduce stress levels, and even bolster cognitive functions like attention and memory. Have you ever read anything so sexy? “It’s about your brain sculpting neural pathways.” Mm, mm, mm, sculpt away, brainy baby!
Why should you care? Because this connection isn't just about improving your physical health through exercise. It's about a holistic approach to well-being that acknowledges and utilizes your brain's power to influence and enhance your physical state. By harnessing this connection in Pilates, you're not only working towards a stronger, more flexible body but also promoting mental clarity, emotional resilience, and an overall sense of well-being. It's a comprehensive approach to health that benefits every aspect of your life, demonstrating why the mind-body connection is absolutely critical, not just in Pilates but in every endeavor.
So, the next time you find yourself mentally fatigued after Pilates, feel proud, and maybe even treat yo-self. There are plenty of opportunities ahead of you with March dedicated to flow.
CLASS THEMES
Monday, March 11th @ 12pm with Destinie:
My to-do list seems never ending. Anyone else? When I get overwhelmed, I turn to the 4-7-8 breathing technique: breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. It leaves me feeling as refreshed as stepping out of the shower – pure "ahh." We'll kick off today's class with this breathing exercise to engage our parasympathetic nervous system, ensuring we begin from a state of mental calm. As we dive into the classical sequence, maintaining a rhythmic breath will be our anchor, helping us to navigate our practice with grace and flow.
