What Is Mind-Body Connection?

In Pilates, we often talk about mind-body connection.

But what does this actually mean when you are practicing Pilates?
 
To break it down, let’s start by feeling a specific area or muscle in your body. Think about that area and allow yourself to become aware of it through connecting with what it feels like, how it is functioning and activating.  
 
The mental awareness of what that area is feeling when you activate it is connecting your mind to your physical body, and it brings you one step closer to being able to develop the know-how as to what your body needs.
 
Therefore, the mind-body connection happens in Pilates (or any workout) when you integrate your entire body and mind simultaneously, targeting a specific group of muscles while performing exercises. The connection allows you to exercise not only your body, but also your mind as you learn new movements and master old ones. This is important for firing the brain and creating new learning pathways, as well.
 
The mind-body connection is a mindset that is all about alignment, focus and control. It helps strengthen, stretch and deepen the relationship you have with your own body. And it really is the optimal sensation when you know how to train your body from the inside, out. 
 
Knowing the ideal feeling of proper form and posture in the Pilates method can take a lifetime to achieve, but oh… is the journey so rewarding and we are all on it together. It’s just as much a mind game as it is a physical workout, which keeps things interesting.
 
With dedication, you start to see results, self-confidence blossoms, and the love of movement continues to grow. At some point, what was once a commitment turns into a lifestyle—one that brings you closer to physical and mental health and overall wellness.