Occasionally people come to Pilates expecting something different. These days a lot of things are called Pilates but perhaps aren’t very close to the original method, and so sometimes people expect a different type of class.
Pilates is a full body workout. It’s a functional, non-spiritual practice designed to get the body moving well to build strength and mobility, so relaxation is not its primary purpose. Sometimes Pilates teachers will teach relaxation techniques too, but these are not actually Pilates.
However, can Pilates be relaxing? I think a lot of people would say that it can be. Pilates is mindful movement - the coordination of body and breath, and breathing well does bring about relaxation. We often focus on the breath at the start of a class to help calm both the body and the mind.
Deep breathing puts the body into “rest and digest” mode, so we feel calmer. Shallow breathing puts the body into “fight or flight” mode, so we feel more anxious. Breathing is one of the original principles of Pilates - Joseph Pilates said “Breathing is the first act of life, and the last… above all, learn how to breathe correctly.”
A full breath brings more oxygen into the body (which we our muscles need more during exercise); research has shown that slower breathing i.e. fewer breaths per minute also has benefits for our respiratory health; breathing through our nose rather than our mouth can have a huge impact physically and there have been examples of good breathing significantly improving various health conditions (do read the fascinating Breath by James Nestor if you haven’t, especially if you have asthma, sleep apnoea, sinus/nasal issues etc).
The use of movement and breath together brings a level of focus to Pilates, which is both mindful and means that if you are focused it’s hard to concentrate on other things, so it can be a good way to take a break from the day’s stresses. There is also a certain amount of “flow” (another principle) which can add to the mindful experience, especially if you practice regularly, as much of Pilates is taught in order, so you become familiar with the overall pattern and progression of movements, even when each practice is different. Exercise itself is also tiring, so we often feel more relaxed afterwards.
However, if you’re looking for an hour of pure relaxation, I’d say get a massage or go to a gentle restorative yoga class. Both are wonderful and have their place, but they’re not really exercise.
If you’re looking for exercise that builds strength, improves your movement and you feel great, more relaxed and often taller afterwards, try Pilates!
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