In recent discussions about the type of fitness and wellness business we want to be, we've been dissecting the language used to guide our clients. Under the microscope is the idea that the Gold Standard to achieve with Pilates is a long and lean body for every body - which is to say that the goal is to make ourselves smaller. Frankly, we feel this kind of intention is really short sighted when it comes to all that's possible in a mindful movement practice.
Our partner instructor, Molly, shared more about resistance vs. support, and how the use of language filters into our quality of movement in our workouts and in our world.
Generally speaking, when we use the word resistance it implies a not wanting to, an avoidance of, or out right defiance of something. In fact the 1st Oxford definition of resistance is: the refusal to accept or comply with something; the attempt to prevent something by action or argument.
For example, I am resistant to the societal messaging I’ve heard my whole life from companies that profit off the idea that women need to “improve” their bodies, appearance, mood, diet….. you know, everything. What’s wrong with the me I am now? The answer is nothing. But change is a good thing, right? Change leads to progress; strengthening an area that was otherwise "weak", or revising communication that is unclear. These are pretty conflicting ideas and yet they live in the same place. I fully believe in change and growth as a natural part of a healthy life. I like to challenge my body and the way it supports itself. I am constantly searching for a “better” way to move. So how do I reconcile these two impulses to both change and be content where and as I am?
For me, the answer to this question lies in movement. Using the movement of my body to gauge how I feel and what I need to adjust.
When it comes to Pilates, this is where resistance becomes very helpful. We don't just use the resistance of the springs on the machines to load the client or make exercises "harder" as it may sometimes seem. We can use resistance as a tool to learn where we are placing the weight of our bodies - to learn where we are in space at this moment. It all depends on how much resistance we use and the intention used with it. We can also use the resistance of the springs to take pressure off of our bodies. In other words, we can transmute resistance into support!
The 2nd Oxford definition of resistance is: the ability not to be affected by something, especially adversely. So now the question is, which definition resonates with you as we inch out of a season of hibernation towards Spring? Are you going to "refuse to accept or comply" - moving against the springs? Are you going to "not be affected by something" - moving with the springs? My goal is to integrate both. Listening to my breath, my body and the feedback from the "machine" while using the resistance however I need to in the moment. My intention is to not only move better but to feel better, in my workouts and in my life!
Moving Through the Chakras
The Group Program and Intro Workshops are ideal for those curious about the chakra system and how it relates to a mindful movement practice. All movement is restorative in nature, making it appropriate for all levels, ages, and abilities. This program aims to support each participant in opening doors towards a sustainable movement ritual and fitness routine, a better relationship with your body, and an evolved understanding of what it means to operate your day-to-day life from a place of “everything is connected.”
Thursday, March 3rd - April 28th @ 6:30pm to 7:30pm | Group Program
Saturday, April 30th @ 12pm to 1:30pm | Intro Workshop
Use promo code EARLYCHAKRAS to receive $100 off the group program when you sign up by February 25th.
PLEASE NOTE: The MindBody app does not allow promo codes. Please use the browser version of MBO to take advantage of the promo code.
Still Popping!
This time in Manhattan! Through March 31st, 2022 we are adding availability in our newest collaboration space at F Squared Physical Therapy in Flatiron. In-person private sessions will be offered as availability allows. we invite new and returning client to engage with some of our most recent offerings to see how we have been working with our clients and community. In conjunction with our thriving Virtual Studio, and Brooklyn host studio, during our pop-up you will have the opportunity to expand your wellness practice, using both online and in-person support to facilitate better awareness, connection and ease in your body.
Call to Action in the Name of Change
As mindful movement practitioners, we are in the business of supporting and guiding our clients through change. That change does not happen in a vacuum, but instead has ripple effects. In that way, we are in the business of change in the individual, the community, and the world.
This month we are highlighting the importance of acknowledging the cultures, healing practices, beliefs, traditions, and rituals that have been siphoned into the fitness and wellness industries from China, Japan, India, Thailand, and Tibet (to name a few) and separated from the people that belong to those lands, cultures, and practices.
Womankind is a nonprofit that supports those seeking help from domestic violence and human trafficking. In part, their mission is steeped in using the healing practices and traditions of the above cultures to aid in their whole-systems approach to recovery and renewal.