The benefits of Pilates for stress relief
April is National Stress Awareness Month. To coincide with it, we’ve put together the benefits of Pilates for stress relief.
Stress is something all of us have experienced at some point in our lives. In small doses (and despite feeling unpleasant) stress can be helpful rather than harmful as it enables us to rise to many challenges.
Unfortunately, many of us suffer from constant stress brought on by day-to-day things like work deadlines or relationship worries.
When stress is this frequent it can have a disastrous effect on our mental and physical health. This is because the stress response raises our blood pressure and suppresses the immune system. Long-term stress is also linked to anxiety and depression.
But, when it comes to stress management, there are ways you can help yourself. For example, using meditation or taking up a form of mindful movement can be a good idea. Practising these methods regularly can help you feel calmer and respond to stressful situations in a healthier way.
1. Mindful movement
Science has proved the benefits of mindfulness and exercise for relaxation. When these movements and meditation are combined, the positive effects are even more profound. Active meditation is also perfect for those who struggle with traditional forms of meditation that require you to stay still.
This is why Pilates – a form of mindful movement – is so effective for stress relief.
Rather than rushing through the movements to get your heart pumping and muscles burning, Pilates forces you to move slowly and move with intention. This brings your awareness to your body as it moves and how it feels in the moment.
Practising mindful movement can make you more present, which can help you manage stress more effectively. To get these benefits, however, it’s important you practise regularly. This is why committing to a regular Mat Class, Reformer Class or 1-to-1 Private session is a good idea.
If you’re struggling with stress and anxiety, Pilates is a great place to start.
2. Breathing techniques
One of the six core principles of Pilates is Breathing.
At Yellow Pilates, we pay particular attention to when and how we are breathing.
Breathing can take many different forms, some of which are: Belly Breathing, Lateral Breathing & Chest Breathing.
By learning these techniques they will not only help with managing stress, but moving with more intention, moving with more ease and helping to release body tension.
3. Dedicating time for yourself
Committing time every week for yourself is beneficial in many ways. Once you arrive at your Pilates class, there are no other distractions, it's time away from a screen, you’re away from the never ending to-do lists, and pesky life admin.
All the while, investing in your strength, flexibility and overall well being for a brighter, balanced and inspired you. It’s a win win.
At Yellow Pilates, we promise that you will feel so much better leaving the class than you did walking in.
Other avenues to explore include the mental health charity www.mind.org and meditation apps, such as Calm or Headspace.
How Yellow Pilates can help to you relax and reduce stress?
We also have a range of in person 1-to-1 Pilates and group Pilates classes which can be tailored to your needs or requirements, and focus specifically on helping reduce stress.
So, if you would like to experience the stress-free vibes at Yellow Pilates please get in touch. We offer:
Book a class at our fully equipped Pilates studios in Glasgow City Centre.
Our studio is based at Oxford House, 71 Oxford Street, Glasgow
For more information, please get in touch online by emailing hello@yellowpilates.com
