I just read an article by Gabriel Winant of The New Republic called Mind Control - Barbara Ehrenreich’s radical critique of wellness and self-improvement. I love the idea mentioned at the end about manifesting social solidarity as the ultimate self-care. But in order to participate and contribute to the world in a positive manner, self-care for the individual is needed. Ms Ehrenreich’s critique of the "beat your body into submission" gym culture is spot on, but shouldn't be confused with more humble journeys of wellness, such as cultivating body awareness and the ability to self-regulate. Your mind and body are in a (hopefully) long term relationship that needs communication, thoughtfulness and mutual respect. To thrive, this relationship will also need varying amounts of assertiveness, flexibility, compromise. Cultivating your body awareness and learning to self-regulate what your body needs on a daily basis helps you manage this ever evolving relationship. And, just like humans sometimes need a little help navigating relationships with family and spouses, guidance for cultivating your body/mind relationship is sometimes needed too. Far from being selfish, I believe finding the solidarity within is a good first step to manifesting universal solidarity.
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New to PIVOT Pilates + Restorative Exercise? Here are a few of our expert tips to help you get the most out of your sessions! 1) Wear clothing that's comfortable but also allows you and your instructor to see the outline of your body. 2) Wear clothing that is also comfortable in different positions, such as bending down or lying on your back with your legs propped up. 3) Wear long hair off your shoulders so your instructor can clearly see your neck and upper back. Soft elastics or clips are recommended as barrettes or combs can be uncomfortable while lying on your back. 4) Go barefoot if you can. All sessions are done without shoes, but going without socks will give you more traction and more spatial awareness. 5) Ditch the chewing gum. Fresh breath is appreciated, but chewing gum can affect your breathing mechanics and how your core muscles work. 6) Communicate with your instructor. Your instructor will ask you questions to help facilitate learning and make programming decisions, especially in the beginning stages. 7) Pay attention to how your body feels for the rest of the day and the following morning, and let your instructor know. This will help guide your next session! 8) Pat yourself on the back for making an investment in yourself! |