Sometimes you’ll see a good movie or a scene from a movie that will inspire you. Rocky running up the stairs in Philly comes to mind. For me Goonies is a big one. It reminds me to make the most of my time and appreciate youth. What movie motivates you? It can motivate you for health reasons, goals and dreams, or just make you feel good about life. Maybe it’s time for some movie magic this week. Watch your favorite movie and let yourself be re-inspired.
Many people, especially when they first start Pilates, find the breathing challenging and awkward. It takes a lot of practice to get it right. The important thing to remember is just breath. In time, it will come. I think of the quote, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but the moments that take our breath away.” If that is true then exercise and Pilates (since we so often catch ourselves holding our breath) must be good for us! 🙂
Remember, it is all about perspective. Relax and know that the breathing will get better and easier, and it will. Try and force it and you might slow your progress down.
I have no doubt that everyone honestly loves the ab series best off all, but more people comment, “I love this part” at the very end of class when we stand up and roll the shoulders and let the legs shake out. I like to believe the statement is made because class is over and everyone is so proud of the work they did over the past hour. It also might be that after an hour of engaging and working the whole body, releasing any tension feels wonderful.
Our bodies get tense without us even realizing it in daily life and during exercise. So whatever you are doing right now, stop. Take a moment and roll your shoulders and let your legs shake. Just let your whole body move and wiggle. Shake out that tension!
For anyone who has trouble in a ball class with their feet slipping on the mat and not sticking well, consider trying grip socks. I don’t wear them so I can’t really comment as to how well they work, but they are an option that is out there.
Here are some brands that were highlighted in Pilates Style Magazine:
