Unseen Benefits of Pilates

We often talk about the physical benefits of Pilates. Increased strength and muscle tone, more flexibility, better posture, etc. However, some of the most important benefits of Pilates are for our mental and emotional health as well.

⁠Here are three “unseen” benefits of Pilates…

1. Pilates can help release emotional tension

⁣⁠Did you know that many of us store emotions in our body? This might look like hunching our shoulders when self-conscious, tensing our jaws when angry, or tightening muscles when afraid.⁣⁠

Pilates helps us release tension in our muscles – including emotional tension that we might be carrying. (This is why many people say they feel relaxed and generally “feel better” after a class!)

2. Pilates can help provide stress relief⁣⁠

When we experience high levels of mental stress over prolonged periods of time, our stress hormones can lead to physical symptoms such as aches, pains, and spasms. Through strengthening and stretching, Pilates helps relieve physical stress, which in turn can help with mental stress.⁣⁠

Joseph Pilates once said: “A body free from nervous tension and fatigue is the ideal shelter provided by nature for housing a well-balanced mind…”⁣⁠

3. Pilates can provide benefits of mindfulness⁣⁠

You’ll often hear our instructors remind you during your workouts to perhaps set an intention, be present in the movement, and bring your focus to the muscles you’re working. The mind-body connection means that you can learn to use your thoughts to positively influence some of your body's physical responses, thereby decreasing stress.

The mindfulness aspect of Pilates can lead to multiple benefits, including reduced stress, improved concentration and focus, better sleep quality, and more.⁣⁠

Tell us what you feel like after Pilates! Has regular practice brought you any of these “unseen” benefits?