Pilates and Your Mind

At Newcastle Pilates, we understand that the method is well known for being excellent at rehabilitating injuries, fighting off aches and pains, and to help tone and strengthen your body. But what some people don’t realise is the benefits of Pilates go far beyond that. It also helps strengthen your mind.

Pilates may involve the movement of your body, but it also requires controlling your mind. There are multiple places your head needs to be at once, including; knowing where every part of your body is in the space around you, breathing at a certain pace, slowing down and speeding up when necessary. It requires you to be completely present in the moment, honestly try and think about what you’re going to have for dinner when you’re in the middle of a boomerang!

Being present in the moment to this degree is a form of mindfulness. Mindfulness is a therapeutic technique often used by psychologists and therapists to help clients with mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. By helping to ground you, acknowledge and accept your feelings, and become aware of thoughts and bodily sensations, it alleviates stress and tension in your mind. Studies show that an increased sense of mindfulness boosts optimism and enhances medical and physical wellbeing, while also reducing chronic pain.

Pilates requires intense focus on executing each movement to the best of your ability, there is no pressure to go beyond what you are capable of (Newcastle Pilates offers classes to people of all abilities), and to celebrate each time you achieve something new. Putting you back in touch with your body and keeping anxious thoughts at bay. Pilates really is the exercise for body and mind.

Newcastle Pilates offers physio-led classes, and professional knowledge to strengthen and stabilise your body, no matter your ability.

To book your class with our experienced Pilates instructors, just call our friendly team today on 0191 284 9111