Pilates

There is no doubt that proper diet and exercise are crucial to good health at all ages, but it is especially important for women during this 39 and Beyond time. I love to walk, and I do my best to keep my weight training on track. I am health conscious and have integrated more activity since I moved to NC. However, over the past couple of years, I have developed a low-grade fear of falling down stairs just the same.

How could someone as young and healthy as me worry about such a thing? Because at some level, I'm not feeling in control of my body. I can say that now because I found Pilates. An interesting story, actually.

Nearly 2 weeks ago, I was in the VA Beach area visiting friends. As I was packing the car, I worried about falling down the stairs leading to the street, and I told God that I needed to find a solution to that. Then, I didn't think another thing about it. I drove to Chesapeake, and had dinner with them. At some point that first evening or the next day, my friend suggested we do Pilates together. I had never given it a second thought due to it being so trendy. I remember Jazzercize and the other trends, so my interest in Pilates was nill. However, since I've decided to be more open to experiencing life and leaving my preconceptions behind, I took my friend up on the idea when she'd suggested it the 3rd time. So, on Monday, a few hours before my departure, I exposed myself to Pilates. And, I'm in love.

In just a few no-impact exercises, I felt my hips align. My hips have been troublesome for years, and sit-ups have not been my solution to strengthening my core. Suddenly, this discipline addresses all my issues. It's really quite amazing. I dare say, a miracle.

How can it be a miracle when it's been out there for nearly 100 years, in the modern world on DVD for a decade or so?

Because I asked God for an answer & He brought it to me. And it was more complete than anything I could've found alone. I truly believe I could integrate this exercise philosophy into my life for the rest of my life. The point is core strength & mobility, not a 6-pack or a 29-year old waist. It's about remaining in control of my body - core, joints, limbs & all. A perfect fit with my attitude that all bodies are beautiful, not just the slim supermodels or buffed out athletes.

So, if you haven't tried Pilates, I recommend it. Moreover, I recommend Jennifer Pohlman's discs. She is balanced in her approach by encouraging the fundamentals and progressing in your proper timing.

Try it!! It's good stuff!!

P.S. Thank you dear girlfriends for sharing this wonderful "secret" with me!!