“How you do one thing is how you do everything”
I reflect on this statement frequently in my daily life, especially when faced with tasks I may not want to do or simply find less enjoyable. In the mind and body Pilates classes I teach, my clients are also familiar with this saying, as I consistently remind them of its’ importance during sessions—particularly when they may feel less motivated or reluctant to perform specific movements. This phrase encapsulates one of the Pilates principles unrelated to movement or physicality but crucial for the effectiveness of the most important workout- life! Let’s delve deeper into Pilates principles and values, exploring how we can seamlessly integrate them into our everyday lives.
Concentration:
Regardless of the workout type, maintaining focus is essential to avoid the risk of executing exercises incorrectly and risking injury. This is particularly crucial in Pilates, where movements often lean towards the slower side. In my BodyByBina Pilates Strengthening sessions, I prefer a count of four for nearly every exercise. Moving slowly activates slow-twitch muscle fibers, sustains calorie burning, and fosters a connection beyond the physical aspects of the practice. How does one multitask while concentrating on controlled, deliberate movements? Ding, ding—concentration.
Beyond movement, concentration is a vital aspect of everyday life. Pilates instills the art of mindfulness—a practice easily assimilated into daily routines. The goal is to focus on the present moment, moving deliberately through tasks, minimizing distractions, and truly engaging in each activity. Cultivating focused awareness enhances our ability to connect with our surroundings and immerse ourselves more deeply in daily experiences.
At Work: Avoid multitasking, as it can diminish efficiency and heighten stress. Prioritize tasks and give each undivided attention. At times when it feels like too much is going on, taking a few breaths can help alleviate the scatterbrained feeling, which is why meditation is so crucial. For more meditation and its’ spiritual benefits check out Beyond, a platform where health & wellness is taken beyond the body.
At Home: Power down electronics and be present with your family. Providing undivided attention builds stronger connections, fostering more robust relationships.
For Yourself: Allow your processes to unfold naturally. Rome was not built in a day. Perhaps opt out of Chat GPT (LOL) for your next project and let it unfold organically!
In Your Relationships: Take time to analyze the people you surround yourself with. Do they bring joy? Do they contribute to your strength and intelligence? Have you genuinely invested time in understanding them?
Control:
In nearly every session and certainly with every client, the topic of control arises. “Gain stability by controlling the core” or “Control your tempo by moving slower” or simply “Gain control of your movement.” Gaining control in Pilates is one of the initial steps. Through control, one becomes aware of the nuances of each movement, understands where each exercise should be felt, and comprehends the reasoning behind each exercise..
This Pilates principle extends beyond the studio, offering a valuable lesson in taking charge of reactions and responses to various situations. Finding moments to pause and reflect contributes to building mind-body health and wellness. Mindfulness exercises adults in a way that makes them think beyond their comfortable scope, questions their social beliefs, and challenges them to try new things. These practices contribute to a more mindful and intentional approach to living, fostering well-being in various aspects of adult life.
At Work: When facing a challenging moment with a coworker or a project issue, take a few breaths. Controlled breathing can halt the stress response, restoring control to both body and mind.
At Home: Control extends to emotional reactions. Be mindful of emotions and regulate them, ensuring responses are deliberate and not impulsive.
For Yourself: Take charge of your finances. Be aware where your hard-earned income goes everytime, and don’t be afraid to say no to yourself once in a while. We really don’t need 12 pairs of jeans now, do we?
In Your Relationships: Learn to take a breath. Controlled breathing aids in maintaining calmness and centeredness in various situations, preventing impulsive responses and reducing potential conflicts. We get it, our friends and family get annoying, sometimes you have to control yourself too!
Precision:
“Don’t just do something just to do it; do something to do it right!” If you constantly find yourself coming to a Pilates class, telling yourself you’re too tired, and intending to take it easy, consider this: you may not see results. Precision is at the heart of Pilates. The entire nature of an exercise can be altered by adjusting one small adjustment of the movement. This precision, allowing for accessibility to athletes at any stage of their journey, is one of the significant advantages of these classes.
Precision is indispensable in everyday life, where communication and daily tasks significantly impact the quality of interactions and outcomes. Applying this principle to time management, by allocating specific time blocks for various tasks, enhances efficiency and combats procrastination. Precision, whether in words or actions, lays the foundation for more effective and intentional living.
At Work: Ensure your tasks are completed. Precision in work involves planning and managing time meticulously, considering details and potential outcomes. This approach propels business and career growth.
At Home: Don’t let your sacred space go to waste. Maintaining cleanliness and order contributes to increased productivity and calmness. A clear, clutter-free space positively affects mood, brain clarity, and focus.
For Yourself: Regularly assess your progress and adjust strategies. Take time to learn about yourself—identify consistent areas in your life and areas where more structure is needed. Taking breaks is essential, but getting back up is equally crucial.
In Your Relationships: Precision in relationships involves active listening and instilling clear expectations. Ensure a full understanding of others’ expressions before responding. Asking hard questions and persisting until issues are settled fosters effective communication.
We need this
In short, by weaving these Pilates principles and complementary practices into our daily routines, we not only enhance our effectiveness but also contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life. And who doesn’t want that?
Catch you next time!
