It’s common thinking that pain is just an inevitable part of aging. Many think that chronic back pain is just “how it is” after a certain age. But most of what people think is due to age is really caused by lack of movement. Not necessarily lack of strength or flexibility but lack of healthy varied movement. Mobility and stability of our spine and joints is vital for our health and posture. Doing exercises that focus on building muscles and stretching muscles often do not help with pain, sometimes even making it worse. Pilates is focused on moving the spine and all the joints in their various ranges of motion. The exercises develop both stability and mobility. Along with the physical movements you are also focused on breathing and tuning into your body, learning how to move well and improving your body mechanics and this awareness carries into everything you do in life. This is the “mind-body connection” that is often cited in the benefits of doing Pilates.
Of course the body needs strength and flexibility. But those alone are not enough. By practicing the Pilates exercises consistently you build your awareness along with the strength and flexibility your body needs. You move in all the ways a body needs to work to keep its functionality and longevity. This is how chronic pain can be diminished and conquered. Humans are made to move and when we have a sedentary life and repetitive motions that aren’t balanced by other actions we develop aches and pains that don’t go away. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort and you’ve “tried everything” maybe you could give Pilates a chance. Even if you did Pilates and did not get results it could be that you didn’t have a teacher with skills in dealing with pain or injuries. I have been teaching for over 20 years and most of my experience is with people who are struggling with chronic pain and/or injuries. Back pain, even post back surgery, fibromyalgia, spinal stenosis, frozen shoulder and sciatica are just a few of the issues I’ve helped people with. I have a gift for seeing where movements are not working and helping you find a way to change movement patterns and get freedom from pain and experience more ease and capabilities in your body. If you want to start your practice and move towards a healthier happier body and life try a session! I’m available for sessions in my Portland studio or wherever you are via video chat online. Don’t live with pain. Movement is medicine and Pilates is powerfully healing.
Solara Pilates 