Welcome to the first edition of my new monthly wellness blog at Pillar Pilates! While this isn’t my very first blog post, this series will focus on bringing you regular updates about classes, exercises, wellness tips, and client success stories. Whether you’re attending classes weekly or looking for ways to practice Pilates from home, this blog will help you stay connected and inspired on your Pilates journey.
Class Updates
New Class Schedules & Exciting Changes!
- I’ve just launched a new Chair Pilates Class in Tilmanstone every Monday from 10:00-10:45 am. The first session on October 7th was a wonderful success with seven attendees! I’m thrilled to see such a great turnout, and even more delighted that everyone has already rebooked for next week. It’s lovely to see the village community coming together to improve mobility and fitness.
- The new Tilmanstone Mat Classes have also been a success, with sessions on Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 am and 11:15-12:15 pm. The energy and commitment from everyone have been inspiring!
- Holiday Reminder: I’ll be away from November 1st to the 6th (inclusive), so there will be no classes during this time. However, I encourage you to maintain your practice by setting aside a few minutes each day to stretch and strengthen. For some quick Pilates inspiration, check out the short videos I’ve posted on my Facebook page here or on my blog
- When I return, we’ll be diving into a new phase of our ABC (Align, Balance, Core) mat Pilates routine, focusing on building strong hips and lean legs. This program is designed for all abilities and will help build core strength, alignment, flexibility, and body awareness. (The only requirement is that you are able to kneel and rise from the floor independently). As always, we’ll finish with a few minutes of guided meditation, which everyone seems to love!
- I’ve noticed significant improvements in many of you, particularly with core strength. Some of you have been nailing the side plank sequence, with better stability and technique each week. It’s wonderful to witness these achievements.. keep practicing! Small, consistent steps lead to big changes.
- Late attendance: A friendly reminder to arrive a few minutes early to class. Warm-ups are crucial to prevent injury, and late arrivals can disrupt the flow for everyone. Let’s all aim to start strong together!
Exercise of the Month
Energise Your Spine and Shoulders in 60 Seconds!
This month’s featured exercise focuses on spinal articulation, which helps improve spinal mobility, posture, and releases tension in the back and shoulders. It’s an excellent way to connect your breath with movement, enhancing flexibility and mindfulness. You can do this movement daily, or whenever your back and shoulders need a quick refresh.
Watch the video below to learn the technique, and let your spine thank you!
Client Spotlight
It’s always wonderful to see your progress, and I’m pleased to share two recent success stories:
- One of my regular customers (I’ve kept her name private for confidentiality) has been attending weekly classes for three months. When she started, she felt her core was weak and would often feel tired after class. Now, she performs the exercises with precision, improved core strength, and leaves each session feeling energised! Such a transformation is a reminder of the benefits of regular practice.
- Lucy recently shared that she used one of my guided meditations during a flight to help calm her flying phobia. She said it worked a treat, allowing her to have a restful flight. I’m so happy to hear how these practices are helping you beyond the group classes.
Wellness Tip
The Power of Posture
Good posture isn’t just about looking taller or more confident.. it’s essential for your overall health and well-being. Proper posture can prevent back pain, improve breathing, and even boost energy levels throughout the day. Here’s a simple tip: check in with your posture whenever you sit or stand. Imagine a string gently pulling your head towards the ceiling, elongating your spine. Shoulders down, chest open, and core lightly engaged. This simple adjustment can make a big difference in how you feel and move throughout your day!
Upcoming Events & Future Plans
Exciting News from Pillar Pilates!
I’m thrilled to announce some exciting developments coming soon:
- Express Target & Tone Videos: These short, effective routines are designed for those days when time is tight or motivation is low and for building on your practice between our sessions together. Each video will focus on a specific area, hips, back, core etc. and will be filmed in beautiful locations, from lakesides to cozy indoor settings. Affordable and accessible, these bite-sized routines will help you stay consistent no matter how busy your schedule is. Stay tuned for their release, both as individual videos and bundles for added value.
- Hypnotherapy Training: This November, I’m starting a 10-month Diploma in Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. This practice complements the mind-body connection we nurture in Pilates, particularly in areas like weight management, confidence, and motivation. While my hypnotherapy sessions will be a separate offering, I’ll remain 100% committed to our Pilates classes. Listed below are the schedule changes for our affected Saturday morning mat Pilates sessions whilst I am away for training.
- Saturday 1st November ’24.
- Saturday 30th November ’24
- Saturday 4th January ’25
- Saturday 1st February ’25
- Saturday 1st March ’25
- Saturday 29th March ’25
- Saturday 26th April ’25
- Saturday 24th May ’25
- Saturday 21st June ’25
- Saturday 19th July ’25 (Graduation Day
)
As part of my training, I’ll also be looking for volunteers to participate as case studies. If you’re curious about how hypnotherapy can support areas like weight management or personal growth, feel free to send me a direct message.
Product of the month
Elevate Your Practice with Wrist & Ankle Weights
You’ve probably seen me wearing these during class, and I can’t recommend them enough. These adjustable wrist and ankle weights are a fantastic way to increase the intensity of your Pilates practice or even your daily activities like walking or stretching.. they simply slip on and you’re ready to go. Not only do they help improve strength and endurance, but they also assist with balance and stability, making your workouts even more effective making them perfect for adding that extra bit of challenge. With a snug, comfortable fit made from soft, skin-friendly silicone, they won’t get in the way of your movements.
The weights are fully adjustable with a velcro strap, so you can find the perfect fit, and they’re comfortable enough to wear throughout the day.. whether you’re at home, the office, or out for a walk. Plus, they come in various colours, and the design is sleek and stylish, which makes them easy to incorporate into your routine.
Whether you’re doing Pilates, cardio, or simply taking a stroll, these weights can help you build strength, burn calories, and stay consistent with your fitness goals.
With adjustable sizing, durable materials, and a sleek, comfortable design, they’re perfect for enhancing strength, balance, and endurance. Whether you’re at home, in the gym, or on the go, these wearable weights are a versatile addition to your fitness routine.
Check them out here and take your practice to the next level!
Guided Meditation
This month’s guided meditation, The Void, invites you to embrace stillness and silence, restoring balance to your mind, body, and soul. Take a moment to step away from the noise and let yourself drift into the peace of the void. This practice is designed to help you reconnect with your inner calm and regain focus amidst life’s busyness.
Feel free to listen whenever you need a moment of peace. Just 10 minutes is all you need to embrace the quiet and let it renew your energy.
Inspiration & Motivation
“Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly.”
A reminder that change is often just the beginning of something beautiful. Whether you’re starting a new Pilates routine or tackling a life challenge, keep moving forward, trusting that transformation is just around the corner.
To book a class, visit www.bookwhen.com/ppilates.
Until next month, keep practicing and be kind to your body!