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Big Toe Studio News

Pilates and Body Awareness

During our Pilates classes, we breathe deeply, stretch our muscles, and pay close attention to our bodies. We find and celebrate our physical strengths, and increase awareness of weaker areas to improve them. We use control and concentration to connect our minds and bodies.

This newfound awareness doesn't end when we exit the studio.

Most of us who do Pilates find our daily lives changed. We learn that injury and weakness result from many things: our desk-bound jobs, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of exercise. As Pilates makes us aware of these pitfalls, we go about our routine activities -- brushing our teeth, pulling on our socks, sitting in front of computers, cooking, cleaning, and driving -- with greater, newfound attentiveness. We are now conscious of our abs, shoulders, necks, and posture. We ask ourselves new questions: Are we comfortable? Do we feel tension? Can we stand a little straighter, bring our shoulder blades closer together, pull our stomachs in?  We strive to be tall, strong, and symmetrical.

This mindfulness is not an accident -- the precise, flowing movements of Pilates were designed to make our minds more aware of our bodies. Joseph Pilates said that his exercise system is about "the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit."

So, as you practice Pilates, remember that it not only helpss tone and strenghten your body -- it also changes your brain.

Why Winter Workouts Are Wonderful

During these cold February days, it can be all too easy to stop working out. The temperatures are quickly dropping, the sun plays peek-a-boo as days grow shorter, and you may still be recovering from the leftover stresses and extra calories of the holiday season. Somehow a couch feels cozier and tv seems more interesting when it’s this frigid. Let’s not overlook that winter days are, for many, accompanied by winter blues.

Believe it or not, thirty percent of people don’t exercise at all during the winter!

Even though you may feel like hibernating, you are not a bear. Unlike bears, humans need to exercise during all four seasons.

While some of us love to engage in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, others find these activities too daunting.

There are many exercises that can be performed indoors year-round. You can spend time at a local gym, use exercise equipment and fitness videos at home, or head to an indoor swimming pool. With some creativity and planning, you can continue to stay fit whatever the weather forecaster says.

Of course, winter is great time for Pilates. Pilates will involve both your body and mind as you build muscle strength and become more flexible. As with all exercise, Pilates can help you reduce negative thoughts and decrease your stress levels. While taking a Pilates class or working one-on-one with an instructor, you will be engaged socially, get your endorphins flowing, and feel the satisfaction that comes from mastering a skill. You will lift your spirits as you lift your legs and arms.

If losing those holiday pounds, increasing your overall health, and improving your quality of life aren’t enough motivation, consider this: before you know it, you’ll be pulling out your shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and bathing suits. Do you want to put them on, or sadly shove them back into the drawer?

We want you to sprawl on your couch, enjoy your favorite television shows, and snuggle under your blanket – at the end of a chilly day that included a terrific workout!