Imagine walking out of a workout, energized but not exhausted. When I started Pilates about 20 years ago, I was quickly hooked on the post-pilates feel—calm, centered, strong, and happy! I remember walking down the streets of Manhattan after a class and feeling slightly taller and stronger, and my back kinks worked out.
Exercise is great for stress relief, but high-intensity workouts can cause physiological stress in the body. If the rest of your life is low-stress, you may benefit from these intense workouts. However, if you’re living with chronic stress, lack sleep (hello, new Moms!), or are in perimenopause or menopause, then you need exercise to lower your cortisol, not raise it! Pilates is a great way to reduce stress. In this blog post, I’ll share how Pilates can lower your stress and an 8-minute Pilates workout for stress.
How does Pilates reduce stress?
- Deep breathing: Breathing is one of the six founding principles of the Pilates method. In Pilates, deep, rhythmic breathing comes from the nose, filling the lower ribcage and belly. This type of breathing circulates fresh oxygen through the body and expels carbon dioxide, resulting in a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure.
- Improves circulation: Pilates strengthens your core muscles and spinal health. Improving the mobility and stability in the core helps improve blood flow throughout the body.
- Brain break: Pilates requires intentional focus, helping you to feel more present in your body and mind. The concentration needed in Pilates provides a much-needed respite from the stressors of daily life.
READ: What does the Bible say about stress? 17 Bible scriptures for stress
How to get started with Pilates to reduce stress
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”.
(Philippians 6-7, NKJV)
- Invite God into your workout. Ask Him to refresh and strengthen you with His Holy Spirit! Whatever is causing you stress, give it to Him.
- Put on something comfortable. READ: What to wear to Pilates
- Use a Pilates mat.
- Remove any distractions.
- Have a glass of water nearby.
Tips for reducing stress with Pilates
- Begin by inviting God into your workout, give Him your stress, and invite His peace.
- Focus on your breath.
- Remove physical/ visual distractions.
- Take it outside.
- Concentrate on what your body is doing, putting aside other thoughts.
- Enjoy the movement; don’t go for perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
The last thing you need to know about reducing stress with Pilates
More than Pilates, Jesus is our ultimate answer to reducing stress. Pilates can never replace spending time with God to exchange our anxiety for His peace. But, caring for the body He gave us with Pilates has benefits to boost our health and well-being.
