Classical Pilates for Modern Life

Shining light on Pilates truths, honoring Joseph Pilates,

and supporting you in your Pilates journey. 

                      If You Can't Take a Walk on the Beach

                            Exploring the Spirit Component of Pilates

In the last edition, I delved into the Body and Mind, two of the three essential components of the Pilates method. Today, I will explore the third and equally important element: SPIRIT. Together, these three form what Mr. Pilates referred to as the “tripart.”

Understanding the Spirit in Pilates

The concept of Spirit in Pilates might seem less tangible than Body and Mind, but it is a crucial part of the practice. While the roles of Body and Mind are straightforward, Spirit is about the deeper experience and connection that comes from a dedicated Pilates practice. So, where does the spirit part fit into it, and how does one experience it during a Pilates workout?

Allow me to share how I experience it.

Whether I am on the Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, or Chair, I focus on executing every movement following the 6 principles of the method: precision, concentration, control, centering, a proper breathing pattern, and flowing movements that I use to transition from one exercise to the next. This necessity for focused execution makes it challenging to think about my external problems or issues. Instead, my attention becomes laser-focused on performing each exercise with utmost precision, mastery, and understanding.

When I begin my Pilates workout, I may not be entirely focused, but the nature of the Pilates method demands my full attention. Soon enough I get immersed in the moment, in the practice. As a result, my mind becomes free of distractions, and my time is spent solely on performing the precise movements.

Experience a positive mind shift in this short sequence of Pilates exercises below.

Have you discovered the “spirit” component in your Pilates practice yet?

I hope you did. And if not, next time you are practicing Pilates, concentrate on not only what you are doing, but how you are doing it. I hope that you too will experience the shift in your spirit and feel mentally and emotionally refreshed.    

Until next time, happy practicing!

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Sincerely,

Joanna 😊

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