If you're neurodivergent, Pilates in Glasgow can be a powerful tool to support your mental and physical wellbeing. Whether you're managing conditions like autism, ADHD, or dyspraxia—or simply looking for a calming yet empowering movement practice—Pilates offers a safe, adaptable, and mindful way to connect with your body.

A Personal Perspective from Michelle, Founder of Yellow Pilates

As the founder of Yellow Pilates in Glasgow, Michelle is herself neurodivergent and has experienced firsthand how transformative Pilates can be. She describes Pilates as her "time to switch off and focus at the same time," finding flow and focus through the mindful movement.

Michelle understands that neurodiversity is incredibly individual—what works well for one person may not resonate with another. That’s why she emphasises open communication with her clients. Every session is a collaborative conversation about what works best for you. Feedback and suggestions are always welcome, and the studio is committed to creating a safe and supportive space tailored to your needs.

Mindfulness Through Movement

Pilates inherently encourages mindfulness. Each exercise requires focused attention on alignment, breathing, and controlled movements. This focus helps reduce intrusive, random, or repetitive thoughts, offering a grounding experience. For those in Glasgow whose minds often feel like they’re "whirling around like a tornado," repetitive, focused movement can provide a calming rhythm for both the brain and body.

Calming the Nervous System

Breathwork is a cornerstone of Pilates. During each session, you’ll learn how to use your breath to enhance your movements while calming your nervous system. These breathing techniques are tools you can take beyond the studio—use them to ease feelings of anxiety or agitation in your daily life. Founder Michelle has undergone extensive training on Pilates and the nervous system, bringing her expertise to every session at Yellow Pilates in Glasgow.

Predictability and Comfort

Neurodivergent individuals often find comfort in routine and predictability. While Pilates classes may vary slightly, key elements like structure, pacing, and familiar exercises can offer a sense of security. This is often the case for Pilates Mat Classes in Glasgow.

If you are joining us for Studio Equipment Classes or Private 1-to-1 Sessions, we can ensure that your programme is tailored to your needs and provides extra predictability as you get started.

Posture and Movement Awareness

If you spend much of your day in one position—whether working at a desk or engaging in repetitive tasks—Pilates helps by teaching you about ideal body alignment and movement habits. By improving posture and reducing tension, you can alleviate discomfort caused by poor positioning or inactivity.

“Michelle is passionate about Pilates, sensitive, patient and incredibly warm. She takes the time to listen to you and tailors the classes so that everyone’s needs are met. As someone who has had a difficult relationship with my body, Michelle is helping me relate to myself in a much kinder way.”

— Edie O'Dowd

The Class Environment: Adaptations for Neurodivergent Clients

At Yellow Pilates in Glasgow, we keep our Mat Classes small, with a maximum of 12 clients per class. However, we recognise that a group environment can sometimes feel overwhelming.

With communication and small adjustments, these challenges can often be overcome:

Starting Something New: Starting a new activity with unfamiliar people can feel intimidating. To ease this transition, arrange to have a call with Michelle prior to class, or you’re welcome to bring a friend with you to Mat Classes for the first two weeks free of charge. Please email hello@yellowpilates.com to arrange this.
Noise Sensitivity: If background music is distracting, let your instructor know—they can lower the volume or help you find a quieter spot in the room.
Lighting and Temperature: At Yellow Pilates, we have low-level light in the studio during winter months and large windows that fill the space with daylight in summer. Electric heaters keep the studio at a comfortable temperature in winter, and you can position yourself closer to or further from the heaters depending on your preference. Please speak to Michelle if you have any queries, and we will adjust conditions whenever possible to create a more comfortable environment for you.
Hands-On Corrections: Teachers often provide physical guidance during classes. If you’d prefer not to be touched, simply let them know. They can adapt their teaching style to ensure you feel at ease.
Hypervigilance: If hypervigilance is a challenge for you, consider arriving early to familiarise yourself with the room and ask questions. Teachers are usually happy to provide extra time for this. Below are photos of what the studio looks like in Mat Class Set Up & Equipment Class/Private Set up.

One-to-One Sessions: Tailored to You

Private Pilates sessions in Glasgow offer even more flexibility. With one-on-one instruction, the class structure, exercises, and environment can be fully customised to your preferences. Pilates machines, such as Reformers and Cadillacs, provide additional support and guidance, making them particularly useful for those with balance or body awareness challenges.

If Private 1-to-1 Sessions are not accessible to you, our Studio Equipment Classes provide a tailored programme for you, but there are 2–3 other people present in the studio at the same time.

Hypermobility in Neurodivergent Individuals

There is a proven link between neurodivergence and conditions like Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Pilates is especially effective for managing hypermobility. By building strength in the muscles surrounding your joints, you'll learn to work safely within your range of motion, reducing the risk of overuse injuries.

At Yellow Pilates in Glasgow, we work closely with our osteopath colleague, Annette Weir, who shares the space with us. She is a specialist in hypermobility and provides invaluable advice to clients and instructors alike. Michelle has undergone specialist training for working with hypermobile individuals.

A Welcoming Space for Everyone

At Yellow Pilates in Glasgow, we believe in creating a space where you can feel comfortable and confident, no matter your needs. With Michelle’s understanding of neurodiversity and her personal experience, we’re committed to ensuring that every class or private session supports your unique journey. Whether you're attending a Mat Class, Studio Equipment Class, or a Private 1-to-1 session, our goal is to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where you can present your true self and thrive.

If you have any questions about the Yellow Pilates studio or joining classes in Glasgow, email Michelle at hello@yellowpilates.com

or book into a class:

Mat Classes: Intro Offer - 3 classes for £36

Studio Equipment Classes - 3 classes for £90

Private 1-to-1 Classes - 2 classes for £130

Let’s find JOY in movement.

Pilates for Neurodiversity: Enhancing Mind-Body Connection