Pilates & Meditation Tips & Mindfulness

Pexels Photo by: Ahmet Kurt

If you are taking a Pilates class for the first time, it is recommended that one focuses on body movements and on one’s thoughts. Also, Pilates might seem like Yoga because you use a mat and body movements. However, Pilates is about flexibility, balance, stamina, and improving your strength. Like Yoga, you can practice Pilates at home for about twenty minutes and gradually add more time to practice it. Make sure you have a clean and decluttered room or area to practice Pilates at home. 

As well as purchasing a Pilates Mat that is thick and gives you support for your spine. Your room can be quiet and free from distractions so you can concentrate on your movements, your breathing, and your meditation. The more you practice Pilates, it can make you more aware of your movements, your spinal alignment, and to listen to your body. Do not overexert yourself especially if you feel a lot of pain as you do each movement. Like Yoga, you set an intention and set your mind to listen to your body, have self-awareness, and enjoy the process of practicing each body’s movement.

The best part of a Pilates class is that you can connect with other people that want to learn more about this form of mind and body exercise. Additionally, when you practice Pilates, there is a theme for each class day like Yoga classes. Furthermore, Pilates can be restorative and can help you focus on your breathing to help you relax. Nonetheless, there are many types of Pilates that can be done at home with a machine, with a mat, or without any other equipment. Therefore, it is recommended that before you begin a Pilates class, consult with your medical doctor, and understand the various forms of Pilates before beginning your class. 

Once you are in your Pilates class, spend a quiet moment and let your body do each movement without feeling frustrated. Avoid making each movement with perfection but do each movement gracefully. Permit your body to stretch every muscle and to move without forcing your body to overstretch your muscles. If you are doing Pilates at home, you might want to dedicate one day using light hand weights, resistance bands, or a Pilates ball. Then, dedicate another day to doing Pilates with small hand towels and a timer for thirty minutes. 

Meditate for five minutes before practicing Pilates. Concentrate on your breathing and if you are feeling nervous, count as you meditate or say the alphabet in your mind. Inhale and say “A, B, C,” and exhale. Continuing your meditation with a deeper understanding of your goals and your breathing. Pilates can improve your posture, reduce your stress, improve your balance, and can improve your concentration. 

Check in with your feelings and enjoy being in silence as you move your body. Practice mindfulness with your breathing by breathing through your nose and not through your mouth. Another way is to focus on your breathing as you do the movements with body awareness. Sit for five minutes before and after practicing Pilates. Say positive affirmations or listen to guided meditations before your class starts. 

Concentrate on your senses, feelings, and your thoughts. Avoid wearing tight clothing or clothing that limits you from stretching your arms and legs. It is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes but make sure it feels comfortable and does not fall from your body. Nonetheless, make sure you are ready, prepared, and in a good mood to practice Pilates, Yoga, or any other form of mind and body exercises. Pilates can be practiced three to five times a week.

Create a weekly workout plan to do Pilates for your spine and for relaxation. Restorative Pilates is one form of exercise that can help you relax, meditate, or practice mindfulness. Yet, there are many reasons to do Pilates for your overall physical wellness and for your mental wellness. Although you do not use mantras in Pilates, you can read quotes or positive affirmations before and after you practice it. Let your thoughts go by and write them down after your Pilates session. 

It is necessary to listen to your thoughts and practice your Pilates movements without getting discouraged. Permit your body movements to flow and practice mindfulness after you do Pilates. Walking meditation, mindful eating, dancing, or writing can inspire you to continue your wellness activities. During your Pilates session, you can meditate as you do the postures slowly. Some postures are Plank Leg Lift, Slow Motion Mountain Climber, Toe Tap, Scissor Kick, Pendulum, and Leg Side Kicks. 

Also, One Leg Circles can be done slowly as you meditate. Have a schedule to practice Pilates. Set your alarm clock to a gentle sound to begin your Pilates at home and a second alarm clock to end your session. Continue laying down and bend your legs as you meditate for five minutes. Here are websites with more information about meditation and Pilates. 

Pilates and Meditation-Pilates Anytime:

Pilates and Meditation | Pilates Anytime

Principles of Pilates-Meditation and Breathing-Present Moment:

Principles of Pilates - Meditation And Breathing - Present Moment

15 Pilates Exercises to Strengthen Your Core:

15 Pilates Exercises to Strengthen Your Core

* Pexels Photo by Ahmet Kurt