Moving Breath Pilates

Notes from the Lupus Foundation Presentation by Virginia Nicholas

As promised, here are the notes from my talk about Pilates for auto-immune disease. I hope this assists you in your attainment of health.

Sincerely,

Virginia

Pilates:

Focuses on breath: Each exercise begins with the breath. Pilates encourages breathing into the fronts, sides, and backs of the lungs to improve respiration, promote relaxation, and improve muscle function of the muscles of the of the chest and middle back, as well as the diaphragm and intercostals.

Exercise helps remove toxins through the breath and movement.

During Pilates clients are able to alternate periods of rest and activity to achieve full, complete breath cycles.

Is Joint Friendly: Pilates stresses proper range of motion and biomechanics. It helps the muscles become stronger without stressing the joints, which results in less pain.

When working on the Pilates machines we use light resistance to gently increase strength and support the body.

Core Strengthening: At its foundation, Pilates focuses on strengthening the core. Clients are taught to “fire” the deeper muscles prior to executing any exercise to promote stabilization and strength. Clients are taught proper biomechanics to improve stretching and flexibility.

Works the entire body: Strengthening the core muscles and providing flexibility. Benefits include: improving tone, increasing strength, stamina, endurance, coordination, posture, alignment and pelvic floor function, and increasing overall energy.

The Way We Move: Pilates supports the core and the spine in all planes of movement. Pilates exercises can be completed non-weight bearing, partial weight bearing, or full bearing.

Does not stress the cardiovascular system: Pilates is low impact, gentle, and progressive. Pilates emphasizes constant, slow motion promoting a healthy neuromuscular connection, and allows for proper stretching.

Emphasizes the Mind-Body Connection:

Pilates emphasizes the mind-body connection, putting clients in touch with how the body feels and responds to specific movements.

Exercise releases endorphins and improves mood while decreasing pain. This is a win-win situation for the client.

Is a Pain Free Technique: In Pilates we do exercises that avoid pain, adversely effect inflamed areas, or stress tight areas.

Is Tailored to Individual Clients: Pilates allows use of props, modifications, and assistive devices to correctly execute the exercises while maintaining the intention of the exercises and still meet the needs of the client. Pilates looks at the individual and tailors the lesson to the client's needs today.

Encourages delivery in a toxin free environment: Pilates is delivered in an environment with natural lighting, soft music, and are chemically free of irritants. Specialists are educated to offer simple, clear instructions (in case the client is experiencing “brain fog”).