18 May Pilates as Part of your Pursuit of Happiness! by Emily Berreth Pilates
A few months ago, I was asked to present Pilates stretches and breathing techniques to a group of first-year students at Kennesaw State University as part of a celebration for the International Day of Happiness. This request got me thinking because first-year college students have a tendency to be the most stressed about everything, and these students can really benefit from learning techniques to both relax and find joy in the moment.But can’t we all? My experience as both a Pilates and yoga teacher and a joyful, faithful person havehelped me find both relaxation and happiness in the everyday, and I hope I can help you, too.
As I began preparing my presentation for freshmen, I thought about the ten Movement Principles that form the basis of the Pilates Method, and how incorporating them into your daily life will help you both physically and mentally. I thought about the many students I’ve had who told me these techniques have helped them avoid panic attacks, and just generally not overreact to the stresses of everyday like traffic, relationship issues, and tackling each day with a positive attitude. My students have used these principles while taking tests, performing other types of exercise, and even when going on job interviews. Even if you never take a Pilates class, I believe you could benefit from knowing these Movement Principles. Developing a calm mind and balanced body and spirit, a benefit of incorporating these principles into your life, will help you overcome challenges daily.
The ten Movement Principles include: Become Aware, Achieve Balance, Breathe Correctly, Concentrate Deeply, Center Yourself, Gain Control, Be Efficient, Create Flow, Be Precise, and Seek Harmony. I will focus today on threeprinciples that you can use in your daily life.
The first principle I stress in my classes is to “Become Aware.” This principle refers to mindful awareness of your body and your surroundings and being present with your movement in body and mind. You’ll be surprised how an awareness of stillness can lead to change and more happiness! One way to accomplish this stillness is with a focus on good breathing.
To “Breathe Correctly” is the principle that linksthe body, mind and spirit. Intentional breathing will help you to become aware! Take a moment to focus on your breath, wherever you are, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth.Take away as many distractions as you can, and simply focus on this one action.Imagine exhaling stress, and make thatexhale longer than the inhale. Closing your eyes when you begin may help,but be aware of your posture. Remember to sit up straight while you develop awareness of the moment. If the moment’s not perfect, it’s still OK! You can control your breath, which will help your nervous system, and in turn, allow you to experience more peace. Keep practicing daily! Take away distractions such as cell phones, and you’ll see even more improvement! Becoming aware and focusing on the present moment, accepting that things may not be perfect, but they are still good, and may even become better, may allow you to have calmer days!
To “Concentrate Deeply” allows for a bridge between awareness and movement. Concentrating is a cognitive process that can lead you to achieving better balance in your life, but be aware that concentration can morph into tension if you’re too focused. You will perform to the maximum of your ability and potential if you allow yourself time to concentrate on – but not stress about – the tasks ahead.
The Movement Principles are interconnected and flow from one to the other. As you practice one, you’ll improve another. The good news is that you can practice as often as you’d like. As these skills become more intuitive, I hope you will notice improvements in mood, perseverance, and positivity. The goal is to begin. Begin thinking about where you are, what you want to do and the skills needed to get to your next goal. Be OK with where you are. Develop awareness, concentration and balance on the road to harmony.
You may not be able to imagine just where you’ll go using these principles now, but it most likely will be better than you could have dreamed.
Emily Berreth Pilates
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