Mindfulness and Pilates - A New Movement?

We hope you enjoy this guest blog by Gillian Booth from acorepilates - where she explores the links between Mindfulness and Pilates:

When we think about Pilates we do not necessarily associate it with mindfulness but there is actually a powerful connection between them.

Pilates and mindfulness are practices that complement each other in many ways. Both emphasize the importance of being present in the moment and connecting the mind and body. In fact, you could argue that Pilates is a form of mindfulness meditation in motion.

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles and improving flexibility and posture. It involves a series of controlled movements that require concentration and coordination.

Mindfulness, on the other hand, is a practice that involves being fully present and aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings.

When we practice Pilates, it’s important to be mindful of our movements, focusing on engaging the correct muscles and maintaining proper alignment. This requires a high level of concentration and body awareness, which are both key components of mindfulness. One of the commonalities of both practices, I think, can be found in body scanning, where we focus on the physical sensations throughout the body, bringing awareness to the present moment. Physical sensations can include muscle tension, relaxation, the body and room temperature or no particular sensation at all.

In addition, both Pilates and mindfulness encourage a sense of calm and relaxation. Pilates can be a great way to release tension in the body, which can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. This is particularly so when we use breathing practice in both disciplines. “Lateral breathing” in Pilates promotes the efficient functioning of your rib cage and respiratory muscles allowing your core muscles to work without additional resistance. Integration of different breathing techniques to your Pilates exercises strengthens the connection to your brain, improves body awareness and activates your relaxation response.

Furthermore, Pilates and mindfulness can be used together to enhance each other's benefits. For example, practicing mindfulness during a Pilates session can help to improve focus and concentration, allowing for a more effective workout.

Overall, the connection between Pilates and mindfulness is clear. 

Both practices focus on being present in the moment and connecting the mind and body, and both can be used together to enhance their benefits.

By incorporating mindfulness into a Pilates practice, you can improve your overall well-being and achieve a greater sense of balance and harmony.

Part two of this blog is coming next week. 

As Mindfulness & Pilates work so well together, we’re holding a Morning Retreat on Saturday 23rd September at The Place to Pause & Breathe in Bonnybridge. This will be a seasonal morning – opening to Autumn. If you're interested in finding out more, click here for more details.

If you're reading this blog after the event has passed, email me for information about further dates: susie@pauseandbreathe.co.uk