Had I known how AMAZING I would feel after starting YOGA and PILATES, I would have started a LONG time ago! Yeah, I was totally that girl that preferred dumbbells and barbells over a yoga mat. I thought YOGA was a waste of time and lacked the benefits I saw in the weight room. Boy, I was WRONG! I still struggle with many poses and breathing techniques. Who knew?
I started to get a “Gut Feeling” to give it a try. I was in so much pain from my injury and my body was always so tight. I would spend a good bit of time working out but failed to stretch. I do NOT recommend this. Our body needs to stretch. Especially when working out or adding stress. When I started meeting new friends and trainers at the gym who attended the YOGA classes, my curiosity grew. Deep down inside, I think I knew about all of the benefits. I’m just a stubborn pain in the ass sometimes. I tried a class or two, but I spent more time stressing about my “To Do” list than finding my peace. I struggled to connect and experience the moment.
After starting my education path at The Institute of Integrative Nutrition, I began to learn so much about nutrition, the mind and body. I was so focused on eating right and working out. I neglected several other parts of holistic health. I definitely knew that I needed to work harder on some of these other parts of holistic health. I lacked a spiritual connecting and a better mindset. I needed to work on my body and my mind. As I learned more over the next couple of month, I decided to give YOGA and PILATES another try. I was IMMEDIATELY addicted. I was not very good, but I wanted to get better. I now love the way I feel! I long for that stretch and connection with myself. I have found a way to relax, breathe and take things in beautifully and peacefully. My perception, mindset and body has drastically changed for the better. I love the lean muscle definition that I see. Not to mention the huge difference that I now feel. YOGA and PILATES is definitely now a part of my pain management and lifestyle. My body is leaner, more flexible, healthier and I have less stress.
Additional benefits of PILATES and YOGA are…
- Reduced blood pressure
- Known to increase a healthier lifestyle
- Improves clarity and focus
- Improves better sleeping habits and helps with a deeper sleep
- Boosts function of the immune system
- Helps to prevent or heal digestive problems
- Helps with pain and joint problems
- Builds awareness for body and mind transformation
- Improves balance
- Regulates adrenal glands
Do you include yoga or pilates into your workout routine? If so, I welcome you to comment below stating how it’s helped you.