What is Pilates?
Before we start relieving stress with Pilates, we must first learn what is Pilates and stress. The Pilates Method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercise developed over hundred years ago by Joseph Pilates. It strengthen and tones muscles, improves posture, provides flexibility and balance, unites body and mind and creates a more streamlined shape.
Stress Can Wreak Havoc on your Body
You undoubtedly face multiple demands each day, such as taking on a huge workload, paying the bills and taking care of your family. Your body treats these so-called minor hassles as threats. As a result you may feel as if you’re constantly under attack. But you can fight back. You don’t have to let stress control your life.
Stress is a chemical reaction that prepares your body for a physical reaction because it thinks it’s under attack. This is known as the body’s “fight or flight” response. It happens within the body when we get upset, anxious, worried, sad, angry, scared, excited, confused, feel pressured, feel overwhelmed, or feel threatened.
But when stressors are always present and you constantly feel under attack, that fight-or-flight reaction stays turned on.
The long-term activation of the stress-response system and the overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones that follows can disrupt almost all your body’s processes. This puts you at increased risk of many health problems, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Digestive problems
- Headaches
- Heart disease
- Sleep problems
- Weight gain
- Memory and concentration impairment
That’s why it’s so important to learn healthy ways to cope with your life stressors.
Relieving Stress with Pilates
Pilates is not an arduous technique that leaves you tired and sore. In fact, quite the opposite is true. By allowing the movements to stretch your body as you simultaneously work on the strengthens elements, you are creating a habit of relaxed effort for your body to follow hence relieving stress with Pilates. We are far too used to straining ourselves in the effort to strengthen our muscles when we should be enjoying the movements themselves.
Budget and Body By Nicole is now offering virtual Pilates sessions. Schedule a FREE 15-minute call to discuss goals and learn what Pilates can do for you.
References
Book: The Pilates Body By Brooke Siler
Blog: Debt-Free or 5 Lbs
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
https://thebalancedlifeonline.com/pilates-for-anxiety-and-stress-relief/
https://vanessabhealth.com/how-pilates-can-help-reduce-stress/