February Newsletter - Pilates Principles: Concentration

Hello!

It’s hard to believe January is already behind us. The start of the year felt like it flew by, and I’m finally reaching that point where things are beginning to slow down and I can catch my breath—and maybe even make a dent in my to-do list.

Each year, I like to revisit the Principles of Pilates. They’re a big part of what sets Pilates apart from other fitness modalities, and understanding them more deeply can truly enhance your practice and your progress. Over the next few months, I’ll be highlighting one principle at a time to help bring more intention and awareness into your movement.

The Pilates Principles:

• Concentration

• Breathing

• Centering

• Control

• Precision

• Flow

We’re starting with Concentration, which feels especially fitting for me this month. I recently had a massage, and while it was wonderful, I noticed my mind bouncing from one random thought to the next—mentally running through my to-do list instead of fully relaxing.

That’s one of the things I love most about Pilates. The practice gives us something specific to focus on: ourselves and our bodies. Within each exercise, paying attention to where the movement comes from and how it feels can reveal so much—where we might need more support or strength, or where we already feel connected and strong.

In today’s world, it’s easy for our attention to be pulled in a hundred different directions. Pilates offers the gift of space—space to concentrate, to tune in, and to be present, even if only for the time you’re on the mat or equipment.

So for this month, during class, I challenge you to put your watch on do not disturb, slow down and focus inward. Lets see what magic happens!