Building the Brain: Trying Pilates
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and reorganize itself throughout life. Learning new things encourages new pathways and strengthens focus, mood and memory. Studies show that exercise is a particularly effective tool in total body wellness, particularly cognitive health. Read more here: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-exercise-protects-your-brains-health-and-what-kind-is-best/ So, in my quest for brain health and a stronger core, I recently tried Pilates.
Try a new exercise this month. It can be belly dancing, zumba, climbing, weights. What do you like?
Pilates emphasizes stability, core strength and overall balance. I like all of these goals. The reformer apparatus is a bit intimidating. It looks like a crazy sled or a torture device—-I can’t decide which one. I don’t consider myself particualrly mechanical, so I was definitely outside my comfort zone. Thankfully, I took an intro class so I had a general idea when I took my first class.
I enjoy the variety of tools in Pilates. We used gliders for the feet, light hand weights for the arms and the reformer for many combined moves. There was even some mat work. The exercise positions are not difficult, but they have names that are unfamiliar to me. This reminded me of the importance of cueing students where they need to go, and not just naming a pose. If you are new, you cannot possibly know the names of these positions; there’s a learning curve.
Every teacher has their vibe or style. While I do agree that you should work hard, I don’t agree that “it’s supposed to hurt”. If it hurts, you should do something differently. Also, the SI (sacroiliac) joint, will not “open up” from forward folding. If my SI joint opens up, call a doctor.
Will I take another class? Definitely. I learned a lot today. However, I plan to take the same Flow 1 class from other instructors and see how they present the basics. Every teacher brings their own strengths and unique perspective. Honestly, you should take a broad view with any subject that you study, yoga included. You might enjoy my emphasis on anatomy, but you might not like how I guide savasana. You might want less anatomy talk and more savasana. Who’s to say? It’s all good.
Try a new exercise this month. It could be swimming, a raquet sport, climbing, walking, dancing…whatever you like! Stretch your body. Strengthen your brain. Step outside your comfort zone.